Actress Jeon Won-ju is showing a completely different perspective on life after overcoming a health crisis. She is moving away from her long-standing image as the entertainment industry’s most famous “stingy” person.
On May 12, a video was uploaded to her YouTube channel ‘Jeon Won-ju-in-gong,’ showing her recovery from hip surgery and a heartwarming moment where she gives allowance to her staff.
Jeon Won-ju underwent artificial joint surgery after suffering a hip fracture from a fall on an icy road last March. She revealed that the experience changed her mindset. “In the past, I had a strong image of being a penny-pincher. But as I get older, things change. While lying alone after surgery, I thought, ‘If I pass away like this, I’m the only one who loses,'” she confessed.
She continued, “Now that I’ve overcome that difficult hurdle and am doing well, I intentionally bring money with me. I want to give it to those who are struggling. I used to find more joy in saving than spending, but now I’ve changed my mind to find joy in giving.”
Her words were immediately followed by action. Jeon Won-ju took out cash and gave 100,000 won to each member of the production team. “I brought some money to give out a little today. This isn’t a bribe; it’s for you to buy a meal,” she said. When the staff hesitated, she shouted in her signature style, “Take it quickly! Put it in your pocket!” bringing laughter to everyone.
This change feels even more significant because she has long been a symbol of frugality. She has frequently shared her saving habits and investment tips on TV, and it is well-known that she grew her wealth through stocks and gold.
Specifically, she purchased SK Hynix stocks in the 20,000 won range, with estimated returns of over 6,000%. As of May 12, the closing price of SK Hynix was 1,835,000 won.
Jeon Won-ju shared, “Now that I’m getting older and approaching 90, I’ll eventually leave this world with nothing in my hands, so I believe I should help those in need little by little.”
