Actress Kong Hyo-jin has shared her memories from almost two decades ago of encountering actor Kim Ji-seok, who will appear along with her in KBS' upcoming TV series "When the Camellia Blooms." They attended a press event for the new drama in Seoul on Sept. 17.

Kong plays a young single mother who fights prejudice and social stereotypes while running a bar in a small town, while Kim appears as her ex-boyfriend.

"I felt comfortable with Kim because we are almost the same age," said Kong, when asked about her partnerships with fellow actors. "I worked with him briefly a long time ago." Kim added, "I was an extra in 'Sang-doo! Let's Go to School' in 2003 [in which Kong starred]. So for me, it feels surreal to play opposite her now."

Kong said, "He had such a minor role, but I thought he was handsome and cool. Unlike what we know today, he was very quiet at that time. But after seeing him appear in other TV shows since, I learned what he is really like. I'm happy to see him again."

"Since his role is my first love, there are many scenes in which we reminisce about our old times. Because he was so comfortable with me, I was able to feel like he was really my first love, and I'm thankful about that," she added.