Choi Soo-young Dives into Theater After 14-Year Romance Ends: Starring as Portia in ‘The Merchant of Venice’

Girls’ Generation’s Choi Soo-young is laser-focused on her career following the end of her high-profile 14-year relationship, showcasing her dedication through rigorous self-discipline.

On June 20, the YouTube channel “Hyo’s Level Up” dropped the latest episode of the “Hyo-Li-Soo Debut Project,” featuring the unit’s members Hyoyeon, Yuri, and Sooyoung.

During the video, Sooyoung playfully bemoaned her strict diet regimen, saying, “Poor Sooyoung eats boiled eggs every day. It’s so sad! Just eggs and scorched rice. After all that grueling practice too!”

She then revealed the reason behind her stringent meal plan, citing her current theater project. “I’m knee-deep in rehearsals for ‘The Merchant of Venice,'” Sooyoung explained. “I’m playing Portia at the National Theater from July 8. She’s a princess from a noble family, so I can’t risk gaining any facial weight. That’s why I’m sticking to eggs.”

“The Merchant of Venice,” a Shakespearean comedy renowned for its intense courtroom drama, boasts a star-studded cast including Shin Gu, Park Geun-hyung, Lee Seung-joo, Kai, and Won Jin-ah alongside Sooyoung. Her character, Portia, is the witty and wise heiress of Belmont who plays a pivotal role in the courtroom scenes.

In other news, Choi Soo-young officially confirmed her split from actor Jung Kyung-ho on June 9. Her agency, Saram Entertainment, stated, “Choi Soo-young and Jung Kyung-ho have indeed parted ways but remain on good terms.” The couple, who began dating in 2012 and were celebrated as one of the entertainment industry’s most enduring pairs, ended their romantic relationship after nearly 14 years. Despite the breakup, Sooyoung is keeping busy with her appearance on the variety show “What Do You Do When You Play?” and her preparations for the upcoming theater production.