Song Joong-Ki News: Korean Actor Shares His Thought on "Descendants of the Sun"

Not only does actor Song Joong-ki have acting down, he seems to have mastered the art of modesty, too.

Rather than basking in his renewed stardom, Song on Wednesday attributed his popularity to the novelty of the soldier-doctor couple in the TV series "Descendants of the Sun."

"I think people like the idea of a doctor dating a soldier because it's different," he told reporters at Hyundai Motorstudio in southern Seoul. "Doctors have appeared in many dramas, but a soldier is a relatively uncommon occupation on TV. I think people appreciate that."

Song went as far as to praise the screenplay of "Descendants of the Sun" as "the best he's ever seen."

"I've been wondering a lot lately whether I did the script justice," he said. "Despite having had plenty of time to prepare since the series is entirely pre-produced, I've been seeing a lot of room for improvement in my acting."

Song plays Army Capt. Yoo Si-jin who falls in love with doctor Kang Mo-yeon (Song Hye-kyo) in the KBS 2TV series, which has caused a huge sensation in both South Korea and China where the show is broadcast simultaneously.

Reflecting the show's popularity in China, media reports claimed a Chinese college student had been diagnosed with glaucoma from watching too many Korean dramas.

There have even been reports that Chinese authorities have warned people over "health concerns" stemming from watching too much of the series.

But Song says he's having a hard time believing these news reports.

"I can only guess (at my popularity in China) from media reports and messages from my friends in China," he said. "I don't think greater popularity abroad would make much of a difference in my life. Currently, I'm focusing my efforts on preparing for my next work."

When asked about the scene in which he sneaks a kiss with Kang, Song says it was a result of "hard effort."

"I was worried about whether it would seem genuine, whether viewers would find it believable, and how intense the kiss should be," he said. "Thankfully, the response has been positive, which is a relief for me."

As with any TV series, "Descendants of the Sun" has had its fair share of criticism, with the show being accused of lacking a plot and condoning militarism. But Song advises viewers to hold their thoughts until the end.

"The script isn't just about love between a doctor and a soldier. It's also about love for mankind," he said. "It's why I chose to be on the show.... Criticisms are welcome, but I hope you watch it till the end."

 New episodes of "Descendants of the Sun" air every Wednesday and Thursday at 10 p.m.