South Korean actor Park Bo Gum has officially earned a national hairdressing qualification after passing the exam on his second attempt, adding another professional skill to his résumé.
According to reports published on October 23, 2026, Park successfully passed South Korea’s national technical qualification exam for hairdressers (general). He had previously earned a barbering qualification during his military service, meaning he now holds both certifications. <Cite refs={["turn187307search0","turn187307search6"]}/>
Park first attempted the hairdressing exam during the first season of The Village Barber. Despite practising whenever his busy schedule allowed, he did not pass on his first try.
Rather than giving up, he continued practising his hairdressing techniques while preparing for the show's second season. His successful second attempt marks a new milestone for the actor, who is known to fans for his work in both acting and variety entertainment. Reports put the exam’s average pass rate at around 20–30%. <Cite refs={["turn187307search1","turn187307search2"]}/>
Park is returning to the salon for Season 2, which takes the show's concept to a small seaside village. Actor Lee Sang Yiwill return from the first season, while Ko Kyung Pyo joins the cast as a new member.
The programme follows the team as they run a special local hair salon, offering residents hair services alongside warm conversations and community connections. A newly released teaser shows Park arriving at the seaside salon, which he describes as “a place where magic happens.” <Cite refs={["turn187307search0","turn187307search3"]}/>
The Village Barber 2 is scheduled to premiere in November 2026 on tvN in South Korea. Viewers can look forward to seeing Park return with his new qualification and expanded hairdressing skills, alongside familiar and new faces.
His journey from a first-attempt setback to earning the certification has also added a real-life achievement to the story behind the show.
Sources: Soompi, Maeil Business Newspaper (MK), CHOSUNBIZ and Sports Chosun.
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