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Japanese drama 'Oshin' still relevant for younger generation: Actress
Although Oshin was filmed 30 years ago, the character's positive attitude and way of life could inspire today's youths from any country.
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Japanese actress Ayako Kobayashi waves during a media interview in Jakarta. Kobayashi is recognized for her role in 'Oshin'. (JP/Jessicha Valentina)
If you grew up in the 1980s, chances are you spent your free time watching the Japanese television drama Oshin.
Set in the Meiji era up to early 80s, the series follows a little girl named Shin Tanokura, known as Oshin, who comes from a poor family and has to overcome certain challenges in life.
Last year, entertainment channel WakuWaku Japan decided to re-air the drama and the final episode is slated to run on Feb. 8.
In conjunction with the final episode, Ayako Kobayashi (who played the role of the young Oshin) visited Indonesia for the fifth time to promote the series in Jakarta and Surabaya, East Java. Kobayashi played the young Oshin when she was only 10 years old.
(Read also: Seven classic Japanese 'dorama' that we miss)
During a media interview in Jakarta on Saturday, Kobayashi said it never crossed her mind that the drama would be popular worldwide, adding that Oshin gave her the opportunity to travel to several countries and the role was a crucial part of her career.
After finishing the movie, the actress took a break from acting and returned to school. She is currently working in television, radio and theater shows.
In regards to the television series, Kobayashi said Oshin was still relevant to the younger generation. Although the classic drama was filmed 30 years ago, the character's positive attitude and way of life could inspire today's youths from any country.
She hoped that by watching Oshin, young audiences can learn from the character and always think positively. (kes)
