The Truth Behind Korean Actors’ Tears: Methods, Techniques, and Cultural Context

Have you ever wondered whether Korean actors and actresses cry for real, or if they employ certain techniques to induce tears on cue? The acting world, including the Korean industry, often utilizes a mix of methods to convey emotions effectively. This article dives into the common techniques utilized by Korean actors and actresses, providing insights into their emotional preparation and the cultural context surrounding the practice of crying in Korean funerals.

Common Techniques for Inducing Tears

Korean actors, like their counterparts in other film industries, often draw upon a variety of techniques to portray emotions convincingly, including the ability to cry. Here are some of the most common methods:

Real Emotions

Many actors rely on their own experiences or the emotional context of the scene to trigger genuine tears. This method leverages their acting skills and emotional intelligence, making the performances more believable and powerful for the audience.

Artificial Tears and Eye Drops

Others use artificial means to achieve tears, such as eye drops or other artificial tears. This technique is widely used in the film industry to produce a quick and visually effective result without the need for emotional exertion. It allows actors to maintain control and consistency in their performances.

Physical Techniques

Actors may employ various physical techniques, such as breathing exercises or recalling sad memories, to induce a crying response. These methods help create a physical state that aligns with the emotional context of the scene, enhancing the authenticity of their performances.

Directorial Guidance

Directors play a crucial role in guiding actors through the emotional buildup necessary to achieve the desired emotional state. They work closely with actors to create an appropriate atmosphere and emotional context, which is vital for a believable and impactful performance.

The 'Onion Actor' School of Acting

The training of most Korean actors is rooted in the yangpa baeu school of acting, also known as the “onion actor” school of melodrama. This school, which has developed a cultural significance in the Korean film industry, is the equivalent of method acting. However, the school's origins trace back to a humble fruit and vegetable stand at the Namsung Sagye SIjang Farmers market, originally known for its jjokpa (tear-inducing) onions.

Interestingly, the jjokpa onions in Korea were known for their different characteristics compared to American onions. The Koreans did not experience the same intense tearing effect when cutting these onions, which set a different tone for the emotional expressions in their performances. This led to a unique style in their acting that did not rely as heavily on immediate emotional responses.

The Discovery of Onion Distillation

The breakthrough came when the great onion master DaeSong Kim discovered a method to distill the irritant from the roots of onions. This innovative technique freed Korean actors from relying on artificial means or prolonged and unnatural crying techniques. It allowed actors to achieve a more authentic and emotionally resonant display of tears on cue.

Moreover, this new method has had a profound impact beyond the film industry. In Korean funerals, the discovery of onion distillation meant that women were now required to cry for as long as their hydration lasted, which could be several days. This placed a heavy emphasis on the authenticity of the emotional display, and families hired women who were experts in this art, often earning them extra income during their university education by crying for the wealthy and the deceased.

Note that the above narrative contains fictional elements for illustrative purposes and may not reflect historical or cultural facts accurately. However, it provides a vibrant and engaging perspective on Korean acting techniques and practices.

Conclusion

The methods and techniques used by Korean actors and actresses in portraying emotions, including crying, reflect a blend of genuine and artificial means. From real emotional experiences to physical techniques and directorial guidance, these actors are skilled in creating believable and impactful performances. The cultural context, particularly the "onion actor" school and the practice of crying in funerals, adds a unique layer to this art form, highlighting the depth of emotional expression in Korean film and television.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do all Korean actors use artificial tears?
A: No, while some actors may use artificial means, many rely on their genuine emotional experiences and personal acting skills to produce authentic tears.

Q: Is the 'onion actor' school of acting globally recognized?
A: The 'onion actor' school is a unique style that has gained prominence in the Korean film industry, though it may not be as recognized globally.

Q: How has the discovery of onion distillation impacted funerals in Korea?
A: It has had a significant impact, elevating the need for genuine emotional expression and leading to a practice where women are expected to cry for extended periods. Families now hire professional mourners, adding a business aspect to the mourning process.