She chose her father’s profession.
In an inspiring turn of events, actress Jung Ga Eun has decided to embark on a new career as a taxi driver. Known for her vibrant presence on various major television networks, including MBC, SBS, KBS, and tvN, she recently took to her YouTube channel to share her decision, revealing the heartfelt motivations behind it.
In her YouTube video, Jung documented her preparations for the taxi driver’s license exam, teaming up with content creator Park Rae Ho, who specializes in traffic-related topics. Park praised her dedication and urged her to give it her all.
Jung had previously hinted at her ambition to become a taxi driver, citing her father, who spent over 30 years as a taxi driver, as her primary inspiration. She expressed a touching wish to have her first passenger be her father, who is bravely battling esophageal cancer.
Beyond personal reasons, Jung is also attracted to the financial prospects of the job. Her research suggested that with hard work, one could earn around ₩10.0 million KRW (approximately $7,180 USD) per month—an amount she noted surpasses what many traditional office workers earn.
A prominent figure in the entertainment scene since her debut in 2001, Jung became a household name as a model and TV star. She married a businessman in 2016 and welcomed her daughter, but their marriage ended in divorce by 2018.
Complicating her life further, reports emerged that her ex-husband committed fraud under her name, involved in 660 cases and defrauding a staggering ₩13.2 billion KRW (around $9.47 million USD). While he took significant amounts from her, falsely claiming it was for investments and taxes, he has since evaded responsibility, living abroad without paying any alimony or child support.
Jung has been candid about her struggles, revealing in past interviews that she hadn’t received new acting opportunities after her role in the 2023 film Tales of Nobody. Initially overwhelmed by her financial situation, she has since adjusted her lifestyle to manage better.
This new endeavor into taxi driving showcases Jung Ga Eun’s determination to overcome life’s hurdles, not just for herself, but for her daughter as well.
Catch her inspiring journey on her latest YouTube video here:
