Byun Woo Seok opened up about experiencing trauma during the early years of his career. 

The 'Lovely Runner' star appeared on the latest episode of 'You Quiz on the Block' that aired on May 22. During the show, Byun Woo Seok shared his mixed feelings about the sudden attention and recognition he received after the success and popularity of 'Lovely Runner.'

He expressed his gratitude and amazement and said, "I've worked hard for 8-9 years. I'm amazed and so thankful for all the love I'm receiving." Byun Woo Seok also revealed that he has been receiving more job offers and explained, "I've been getting 10 to 20 times more offers (for roles) now."

The actor also shared that the drama took three years for the production to begin. He explained, "This is my first lead role, but I wasn't very well-known. This script was offered to other actors first, that's why it took three years. I'm really grateful that the script came to me." He added, "When I read the script, I immediately felt 'I have to film this, I want to film this.'"

Byun Woo Seok's rise to fame didn't happen overnight. This year marks his ninth year since debuting, and the actor reminisced about the difficult times during the early years of his career when he wasn't well known.

He shared, "I've been cut during script readings and went through a series of tribulations. I received a lot of harsh criticism and had moments when I had very low self-esteem."

The actor added, "I worked as a model so I loved being on camera, but as I faced constant criticism in my acting career, I developed a fear of cameras. I questioned if it was right for me to continue this path."

Byun Woo Seok mentioned hearing blunt remarks from people around him, though they were not ill-intentioned. He recalled, "Some said, 'I don't think you'll make it in 4-5 years.' Ironically, things started to work out after 4-5 years. When I heard those remarks, I thought, 'I have to overcome this.' I didn't want to be discouraged by their words."

He added, "Instead of staying idle, I tried to overcome my shortcomings and traumas by immersing myself in the field. I took on any role, no matter how small, and I think that's how I overcame it."

During the one-to-one interview with the production staff, Byun Woo Seok confessed, "After the script reading, I went to the salon to get my hair done to fit the character but then I received a phone call saying, 'Sorry, we don't think we can work with you this time.'" He continued, "There was a group chat room with all the cast members but I had to leave that group chat after hearing I was cut from the project. It felt like a blow. My pride was hurt and I wondered 'Am I not good enough?' I even cried a lot. However, those moments made me want to do better and work harder."

SEE ALSO: Byun Woo Seok reveals why he is able to wake up at 7:30 AM even if he sleeps at 4 AM