Actor Park Seo Jun on fitness, acting, and growth

Actor Park Seo Jun tells David Ho about fitness, acting, and growth

You may know Park Seo Jun from his star-making roles in shows like Gyeongseong Creature and Itaewon Class, films like Concrete Utopia or his Hollywood debut in The Marvels. But now, the South Korean actor has stepped into a different kind of role as a Lululemon ambassador.

The charismatic star fronts the fitness wear brand's Together We Grow campaign. This is more than just a usual ad campaign though as it also has a goal of generating what they term "One Million Minutes of Movement", which Lululemon achieved at a two-day event in Seoul earlier this month.

Held at the COEX Convention & Exhibition Center in Gangnam-gu district, Park was joined by fellow ambassadors Amotti of Netflix's Physical: 100 and holistic-wellness practioner Leah Simmons. The trio came together to inspire and empower everyone to get moving as a community. Other stars in attendance include Hong Kong actor Terrance Lau, former Olympic swimmer Yvette Kong, and Japanese model Hikari Mori. 

Park tells #legend more about his participation in the campaign, how fitness feeds into his acting and his workout preferences. 

Please tell us, what's new with you? 

I am grateful that the latest Netflix series, Gyeongseong Creature Season II, has been well received by audiences. Besides acting, I am really glad to join Lululemon as their ambassador and be part of this Together We Grow campaign. I wish to encourage people to keep moving their bodies and keep connecting with others, and to find their own authentic way to be well. I hope we can develop a culture where it’s natural to openly talk about our feelings and express emotions. 

How does fitness feed into the work you do as an actor?

Recently, I've clearly felt that fitness management will be a key factor in an actor's longevity, so I need to pay more attention to it as well. One can only fully engage in one’s work by maintaining a balanced state of physical, mental, and social health.

Can you let us know your fitness and self-care routine please?

When I work out, I make an effort to avoid getting stuck in repetitive routines. I've learned that when the body becomes accustomed to specific movements, training progress can stagnate, and exercise can become dull. I regularly mix it up; I alternate between strength training and cardio. Occasionally, I might focus solely on strength or prioritize cardio. I believe that varying my workout habits and avoiding a single focus is highly beneficial for my body.

What do you look for in your fitness wear?

There was a time when I thought I just wear my everyday cotton T-shirts or shorts to the gym, and that suffices. However, after trying on Lululemon, I understood why people seek out functional items for workouts! What sets Lululemon apart is its fabric innovations make its sportswear extremely breathable. Because of this, I've been able to get more out of my workouts because I’m in better shape for weightlifting and golf. Additionally, the sleek design makes them perfect for running errands. 

Let's start by talking about your own growth. How have you seen yourself evolve over your career?

As an actor, it’s easy to become immersed in new projects, which can lead to an irregular lifestyle, making it challenging to take proper care of myself. During my collaboration with Lululemon, I realized that maintaining balance in not just in physical health, but also for mental and social wellbeing, is essential. Only when these aspects interact can we truly achieve a healthy life, empowering me to reach new heights in my acting career.

In the spirit of Together We Grow, how have you supported the growth of the people around you and vice versa? What's next in your journey of growth?

It’s truly inspiring to witness so many people coming together to embrace the power of movement and connection through the Together We Grow campaign. Personally, I’m committed to listening more to my body and adopting a healthier lifestyle. If I'm sleep-deprived, I prioritize getting a good night's sleep, while also staying active to maintain my physical health, whether on my own or with friends. Wellbeing may look different for each of us, but I invite everyone to join Lululemon in this journey of movement, so we can support one another in our pursuit of wellness.

Also see: Physical: 100 winner Amotti on his victory, fitness and getting into it