Category: K-DRAMA

In the bustling world of Korean drama, few transformations have been as intriguing as that of actor Kang Hoon for Netflix’s A Time Called You. At 32, Kang Hoon took on the challenge of playing an 18-year-old high school student, a role that required both physical and emotional adjustments.

The narrative of A Time Called You is as unexpected as it is captivating. The protagonist, Junhee, played by Jeon Yeo Bin, is transported to the year 1998 after a heart-wrenching loss. Fate leads her to Si Heon, played by Ahn Hyo Seop, who bears an uncanny resemblance to her late partner. Alongside Si Heon is his friend, In Gyu, a character that Kang Hoon masterfully brings to life. This drama, rich in twists and turns, is an adaptation of a Taiwanese series.

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Diving into the character

Diving into the character of In Gyu, Kang Hoon faced the unique challenge of revisiting his youth. He said, “Putting on a school uniform didn’t invoke pressure. It brought nostalgia instead. I imagined putting on the uniform would take me back to my school days, but I felt the metamorphosis into a student from the moment I stepped onto the set.”

That metamorphosis wasn’t just emotional. Kang Hoon’s role required a physical transformation as well. He shared, “Recalling my school memories and integrating them into my performance often occurred. I received varied feedback—some stated I was convincing as a high schooler, and others disagreed. However, I chose not to pay much attention to those negatives.”

The actor’s commitment to authenticity extended to his physical appearance. When asked about the secret to his youthful look, Kang Hoon revealed, “I exercised a lot but soon realized it was not a common habit among school-aged adolescents. I decided to refrain from extensive workouts and focused on weight loss instead.” His dedication bore fruit as he lost almost 18 pounds, ensuring he resembled a typical high school student.

Kang Hoon and his remarkable transformation

At a towering height of 184cm (6.1ft), Kang Hoon’s transformation was all the more remarkable. He elaborated on his weight journey, stating, “My usual weight fluctuates around 74kg (~163lbs). Being lean seemed appropriate for a student’s role. Even though I did exercise during my school days, I was relatively skinny. Most of my friends were overweight or skinny.” This further highlighted the lengths to which the actor went to ensure an authentic portrayal.

Kang Hoon’s dedication to A Time Called You is a shining example of an actor’s commitment to their craft. By intertwining his personal memories with the character’s narrative and undergoing a significant physical transformation, he solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor in the world of K-dramas. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: He’s in his 30s, but he looks so much younger! Source: Twitter/@kanghoonarchive.

Netflix’s original series A Time Called You set tongues wagging with the unexpected appearance of SF9’s Rowoon. This drama, an official remake of the Taiwanese series Some Day or One Day, stars Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, and Kang Hoon in pivotal roles. The narrative, laden with drama and emotions, revolves around three main characters: In-gyu, Jun-hee, and Si-heon.

Fans who diligently followed the twelve-episode drama were surprised to see Rowoon in an intriguing role. Ahn Hyo-seop plays dual roles in A Time Called You. One of his characters, Yeon-jun, goes to cram school with Rowoon’s character, Tae-ha. Their interactions left audiences with bated breath, eagerly anticipating what would come next. Anticipation peaked when the two hung out on a rooftop, their nervousness palpable, hinting at a possible romantic connection.

Moving forward in the drama’s eighth episode, Tae-ha and Yeon-jun go on a road trip. Despite their nervousness, Tae-ha eventually takes Yeon-jun’s hand and squeezes it, signaling their readiness to embrace their feelings and go public with their relationship. However, this budding romance meets a heart-wrenching end with a tragic car accident.

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Fans are shipping Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon

Fans know the chemistry between Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon isn’t just for show. They actually are close in real life. They got to know each other through another actor, Lee Jae-wook. This trio has been seen together at various public events. They’ve even vacationed together. Ergo, seeing Rowoon in this role was a delightful surprise for many. No one expected a mainstream K-drama to do a scene like this.

What thrilled fans was the way both actors pulled off their scenes together. This marked the first time either of them played characters in a same-sex relationship. Drawing a parallel, another SF9 member, Zuho, previously starred in the hit BL drama Starstruck. Given fans’ positive reactions to this cameo, many are hopeful that Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon will do a real BL drama in the future.

The emotional roller-coaster ride that is A Time Called You is available for streaming on Netflix. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their characters had barely confessed to each other when tragedy struck., quite literally. Source: Twitter/@honeydewinmylyf.

The entertainment industry is abuzz with excitement as actors Ahn Hyo-seop, Kim Se-jeong, Kim Seon-ho, and Moon Ga-young confirm their participation in the 2023 Asia Artist Awards. Set for December 14th at the Philippine Arena, the event promises to be a dazzling affair.

Ahn Hyo-seop, another actor making waves in the industry, clinched the Best Actor Award at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards. Dramas like Lovers of the Red Sky and Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim solidified his reputation as one of South Korea’s top stars. His recent dual role in Into Your Time showcased his unique charm. As if that wasn’t enough, he’s also a talented dancer and singer.

Kim Se-jeong has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. After making her name in music with her stint in girl group I.O.I., she became a top actress. She has left an indelible mark in shows like The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch. Her recent return to music saw the release of her album Door, with a solo concert tour on the horizon.

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards will be grand

Kim Seon-ho is riding high on his success from the previous year. He took home four awards at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards, including the coveted DCM Popularity Award in the Male Actor category and the Idol Plus Popularity Award. His performances in dramas like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Start-Up earned him significant acclaim. Furthermore, his ongoing Asia tour has been a massive hit, with plans to continue in Singapore.

Moon Ga-young, the recipient of the Emotive Actor Award at the 2021 Asia Artist Awards, will be at this year’s ceremony after a two-year hiatus. She is best known for her roles in Find Me in Your Memory and True Beauty, among others. Her most recent show, The Interest of Love, earned her critical acclaim.

The Asia Artist Awards is a collaboration between the organizing committee, PULP Live World, Star News, and TONZ Entertainment. With MCs like Jang Wonyoung, Kang Daniel, and Sung Hanbin, and attendees including NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM, the event is already garnering global attention. It’s shaping up to be grand, and fans can’t wait to see their idols in person. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These actors confirmed their attendance. Sources: Twitter/@kdramasunrise and @TheAnnyeongOppa.