Jeon Ok

Quick Facts: Who was Jeon Ok?

Subject:

Jeon Ok

Known for:

Pioneering South Korean actress and singer, known as the "Queen of Tears".

Born:

1911-04-02

Died:

1969-10-22

Century / Era:

1911s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Jeon Ok (Korean: 전옥; April 2, 1911 – October 22, 1969) was a Korean actress and singer. Jeon was referred to as "Queen of Tears" for her excellence at acting for tragic dramas. Jeon Ok was born Jeon Deok-rye on April 2, 1911 in Hamhung, Kankyōnan Province, Korea, Empire of Japan (now South Hamgyong Province, North Korea). When Jeon was 15 years old, she was introduced to the film industry by her brother. Jeon aspired to be an actress in Towolhoe (토월회), her debut role was as a supporting actress in the 1927 film Jal itgeora (잘 있거라), directed by Na Woon-gyu.

Career & Major Achievements

Jeon gained popularity after taking a lead role in Arirang Gogae (아리랑고개), based on Park Seung-hui (박승희) and produced by Towolhoe. However, when the theatre closed, she moved to Joseon Yeongeuksa in 1930. Jeon was noted for her monologues as well as her tragic performances which often brought audiences to tears, so she was dubbed the "Queen of Tragedy" or "Queen of Tears". After the liberation of Korea, Jeon was mainly active in film. Jeon Ok married Kang Hong-shik, an actor, film director and singer.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Kang Hong-shik and Jeon Ok were the first married couple in Korean entertainment history. Their daughters, Kang Hyo-shil and Kang Hyo-son, became their parents' step. Later, Jeon and Kang divorced. Kang went over to North Korea along with Hyo-son who later became a famous actress in North Korea. Kang Hong-shik was honored as "Merited artist" as well.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1911 (1911-04-02): Birth of Jeon Ok — Pioneering South Korean actress and singer, known as the "Queen of Tears".
2. 1927: 1927 Milestone — Jeon aspired to be an actress in Towolhoe (토월회), her debut role was as a supporting actress in the 1927 film Jal itgeora (잘 있거라), directed by Na Woon-gyu.
3. 1930: 1930 Milestone — However, when the theatre closed, she moved to Joseon Yeongeuksa in 1930.
4. 1969 (1969-10-22): Passing & Historical Legacy — Jeon Ok passed away on 1969-10-22, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Jeon Ok

True or False: “Jeon Ok's initial professional breakthrough came after she was introduced to the film industry by her brother when she was 15 years old.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): She gained popularity after taking a lead role in Arirang Gogae; while her brother introduced her, this specific role marked her rise.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Jeon Ok