Frankly Speaking welcomes Korean drama enthusiasts on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. This workplace romantic comedy series revolves around Song Ki Baek (portrayed by Go Kyung Pyo), an anchor at the JBC Station Office, where he’s been employed for eight years.
Given his lengthy tenure as an anchor, the 33-year-old Song Ki Baek harbors a dream of ascending to the role of lead news anchor. He’s long been preparing for any potential auditions for the position. So, what steps did Song Ki Baek take? Let’s delve into them.
1. Learning a Foreign Language
As the lead news anchor occasionally interacts with international guests, fluency in a foreign language is essential for effective communication and broadening the audience reach. Song Ki Baek has tackled this challenge head-on. In one scene, he impressively converses with guests from Bangkok in flawless Thai, leaving his colleagues astounded. Moreover, he’s also committed to learning Mandarin, as depicted by his study sessions with a Mandarin language book.
2. Staying Updated with News Programs and Cultivating a Reading Habit
Despite Song Ki Baek’s established reputation as an actor, he remains dedicated to self-improvement through continuous learning from various sources. He starts his day by tuning into news channels and stays abreast of current affairs. While the show doesn’t explicitly depict Song Ki Baek practicing, his ability to improvise during unexpected situations, like conversing in Thai without a teleprompter, demonstrates his preparedness. Additionally, he nurtures a habit of reading newspapers and books, enriching his vocabulary and refining his speaking skills.
3. Developing a Positive Image
Although not yet appointed as the lead news anchor, Song Ki Baek has already earned recognition as an exemplary figure at the JBC Broadcasting Office. His photo adorns the anti-smoking campaign posters within the office premises, reflecting his clean record of eight years without any misconduct. Colleagues and superiors regard him highly for his affluent background, composed demeanor, and exceptional qualities, earning him the nickname “Blue Chip Stock.” His colleagues even speculate whether his inclusion could boost the show’s ratings.
Despite Song Ki Baek’s earnest efforts, he encounters significant challenges in these two episodes. Will he ultimately realize his aspirations? Tune in for the next installment of Frankly Speaking to find out!