Instead of being referred to as 'the daughter of Jo Jae-hyun,' actress Jo Hye-jung has stepped onto the global stage with her own name. Breaking a long silence, she garnered applause solely through her acting and presence.

Jo Hye-jung was officially invited as the lead actress of the drama 'Fasting Love' at the 8th Cannes International Series Festival held in France. Walking on the local pink carpet, she drew the attention of overseas fans and the press with fluent English interviews and French greetings.

'Fasting Love' is a work that depicts the story of youth pursuing a dream of becoming a singer as they enter a fasting center, with Jo Hye-jung playing the role of the virtual singer 'Jisoo,' leading the narrative. The work premiered for the first time worldwide at the festival, and immediately after the screening, there was prolonged applause followed by fan requests for autographs.

A local official noted, 'Jo Hye-jung has proven her presence as a lead actress not only through her acting skills but also through proactive fan communication and a genuine attitude.' In particular, the enthusiastic cheers from overseas audiences in their teens and twenties highlighted the global interest in Jo Hye-jung.

Jo Hye-jung also expressed in an interview, 'I still can't believe I was invited to the Cannes Series Festival. It brings back memories of the days I endured difficult times.' She added, 'Now, I want to be called by my own name. I will work harder to be recognized solely for my acting.'

Once noted for the title 'the daughter of Jo Jae-hyun,' uncomfortable scrutiny followed her activities after her father's controversies. Jo Jae-hyun was identified as a perpetrator multiple times due to the 2018 #MeToo movement accusations, leading him to apologize and cease activities. He stated, "I am sincerely apologizing to those who have been harmed, putting everything down and living in atonement. I will relinquish all my engagements," and has not appeared since. Reports later indicated that he was secluded in the provinces without any contact with his family.

However, Jo Hye-jung has demonstrated her unique career through this official invitation to Cannes and the local reaction, shedding the label of being tied to her father's reputation.

Jo Hye-jung is also said to be cautiously discussing her entry into the global over-the-top (OTT) market as a result of this festival. Attention is focused on actress Jo Hye-jung, who is beginning to rewrite her second act with her acting skills, sincerity, and unwavering will.

[Photo] Provided by the agency.

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