By Honorary Reporter Jessica Louvain from Brazil

Photos = Kang So Yeon

"Single's Inferno" is Netflix's first Korean reality dating series that has seen global popularity. One cast member is Kang So-yeon, who was part of a K-pop group that debuted in 2012 but has since gained a large global fan base as a model, actor, and CEO of the boxing gym HitFit Boxing and clothing brand GoodRound.

The following are excerpts from an interview with Kang.

What is your reaction to "Single's Inferno" global popularity?

I didn't expect it to rank No. 5 on Netflix charts worldwide. I'm glad that global interest in Korea has grown thanks to the show and feel honored to have been a part of it.

How was your experience on the island?
I had days when I couldn't drink water or rest in my cozy room. I also felt like I'd be a failure if I didn't find love, so the emotional toll was heavy. When I went to the hotel, everything felt nice and the food tasted great, but I didn't feel completely at ease. Being filmed for 24 hours a day wasn't easy, but it was a new experience.

What did you learn about yourself on the show and what was your the most memorable moment?

I discovered many sides to me that I didn't know before. I'd often think "Ah, so I have that look when I feel this way," and this helped me mature a lot. My most memorable moment was probably running along the beach on the beautiful uninhabited island.

You're an entrepreneur, actor, model, YouTuber and athlete. What other projects are you working on?
As an actor, I'm working toward appearing on a Netflix film or series. As a musician, I hope to release an album for fans who remember my K-pop past.

How have fans abroad reacted to you?
I'm thankful to have fans around the world. A friend from Singapore told me in a text, "So-yeon, you're the most popular contestant here!" Shortly afterwards, I started seeing a lot of support from Brazil, receiving more than 10,000 comments on social media. Brazil is a country I'm interested in and I hope to visit soon.

Do you have a message for your fans?

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I consider my appearance in "Single's Inferno" as just the beginning of a long and healthy relationship with my global fans. I hope to show new sides of myself in films and series. I'm also studying English, Spanish and Portuguese so that I can communicate with a wider audience.

kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.