Child Actor Jung Ji-hoon Enters Ha Jung-woo's Alma Mater, Fulfilling 9-Year Promise

In a heartwarming conclusion to a promise made nearly a decade ago, young actor Jung Ji-hoon has been admitted to Chung-Ang University's prestigious Theater and Film department — the same institution where his on-screen mentor Ha Jung-woo studied — fulfilling a casual pledge that neither expected to become reality.

The news was shared on March 3 through a social media account operated by Jung Ji-hoon's mother, accompanied by photos of his first day at university. She wrote that he had kept a promise they thought could never be fulfilled, revealing the touching backstory behind her son's college choice.

A Promise on the Last Day of Filming

The story traces back to the final day of filming for the blockbuster fantasy film Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds in 2017. During a break in shooting, veteran actor Ha Jung-woo, a Chung-Ang University graduate, casually asked the young Jung Ji-hoon about his college plans.

When Ha asked if he wanted to study theater and film, the child actor learned that Ha had attended Chung-Ang University and immediately responded that he wanted to go there too. Ha Jung-woo, amused by the boy's determination, replied with a challenge — study hard — and promised to buy him ten meals if he made it in.

Nine years later, that seemingly offhand exchange has become reality. Jung Ji-hoon gained admission through the university's special talent early admission program, officially becoming Ha Jung-woo's junior at the institution.

A Young Career Already Rich with Achievement

Born in 2007, Jung Ji-hoon debuted at just six years old in the 2013 tvN drama Monstar. He went on to build an impressive filmography, appearing in acclaimed productions including Oh Hae-Young Again, Goblin, My Mister, and Mother.

His role in the Along with the Gods franchise proved career-defining. The first installment attracted over 14 million viewers, and the sequel added another 12 million, making Jung Ji-hoon a rare double 10-million viewer actor while still in his teens. He also appeared in the period action film The Great Battle and the supernatural thriller The Divine Fury.

Remembering Late Mentors

Jung Ji-hoon's mother added a poignant note to the celebration, mentioning the late actors Lee Soon-jae and Ahn Sung-ki, saying they would have been happy to hear the news. Jung worked alongside Lee Soon-jae in the film Deokgu and with Ahn Sung-ki in The Divine Fury, forming meaningful bonds with both legendary performers during his childhood career.

The story has resonated widely with Korean audiences as a reminder of the mentorship that flows through the entertainment industry. Jung Ji-hoon directly addressed Ha Jung-woo through the post, writing that he remembered the promise of ten meals and that he had kept his end of the deal.

As he begins his university journey at the institution that produced one of Korea's most acclaimed actors, Jung Ji-hoon carries with him not only the promise to a senior colleague but also the legacy of two beloved mentors who helped shape his path in Korean cinema.