Actress Park Shin-hye (S.A.L.T Entertainment)

Rising hallyu star Park Shin-hye is seeking change in her image as an actress through the upcoming drama “Pinocchio.”

Park was selected to play the female lead role of the drama on September with actor Lee Jong-suk. The two actors being popular in many Asian countries, fans are already anticipating the romantic chemistry between the two.

Actor Lee Jong-suk and Park Shin-hye (OSEN)

Park’s decision to star in the drama gained exceptional attention from fans and news report outlets. The main reason is that the role was relatively different from Park’s past characters in drama.

Park’s past major works include “The Heirs,” “Heartstrings” and “You’re Beautiful.” Her role in the drama often involved her being pure, innocent and feminine.

Park Shin-hye in the drama "The Heirs" (SBS)

However, via “Pinocchio,” Park will go through major change in her image as an actress. She is to play the role of “Choi In-ha,” a young reporter who pursues justice while working for the social affairs desk.

“This is the first time for Park to play the role of a professionally working woman. So far, her parts in the drama were mainly high school or college school student,” an official of her agency was quoted as saying.

Main actors for "Pinnochio" (SBS)

“Since the job her character has is social affairs reporter, there will be a lot of scenes where Park is to show her playfulness and activeness. The actress will show different side of character that has not yet been revealed,” the official added.

The drama “Pinocchio” will air in November every Wednesday and Thursday on SBS after “My Lovely Girl.”

By Kim Min-jin (minjin103@heraldcorp.com)