Rowoon: A Star on the Rise – From KPop Idol to Promising Actor

Rowoon A Star on the Rise – From K-pop Idol to Promising Actor

In September this year, the news about SF9 member Rowoon stepping out from group activities created a significant buzz in the online community. According to the translated statement released by FNC Entertainment, "Rowoon will be focusing on his individual projects, including acting."

 

Apart from his well-established roles as the group's visual and center, he has also garnered popularity for his acting prowess. When the news came out, it generated a wave of mixed emotions among fans. While the news disheartened many, others enthusiastically supported his decision to pursue and further develop his acting career.

Rowoon's Versatile Career: An Overview

Born on August 7, 1996, Kim Seok-woo, better known by his stage name Rowoon, debuted as a member of the Korean boy group SF9 in 2016. He's not just known for his captivating looks and exceptional talent, but he also possesses a cheerful and engaging personality. Endowed with a commanding physique and a towering presence, it's no surprise that he excels in athletics and has made a name for himself as a sought-after model for various brands. 

 

Recently, he attended a Calvin Klein event in Tokyo with appearances from other South Korean artists like MONSTA X Shownu and BTS Jungkook.

Furthermore, Rowoon has proved himself in the realm of acting. In 2017, he secured a role in the drama School 2017, marking his acting debut. In 2018, he starred in two Korean dramas: About Time and Where Stars Land. Following these, he assumed lead roles, which earned him recognition.

Rowoon in School 2017, About Time, and Where Stars Land
Images from Google

Whether you're a fan or not, one cannot deny the evident growth of Rowoon as an individual with an unwavering passion for his craft. Have you had the chance to watch him in Korean dramas? Explore his most acclaimed shows through this overview.

Extraordinary You (2019)

Extraordinary You Poster
Image from Fueled By Chapters

Extraordinary You is a South Korean drama blending romance, fantasy, and comedy. It follows Eun Dan-oh (Kim Hye-yoon), a high school girl who realizes she's a character in a webtoon, sparking questions about her existence and choices in life. Rowoon played Ha-roo, who aids her in breaking free from the story's confines. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and love, challenging the fabric of their fictional world.

 

Watch this if you're a fan of this genre!

 

FAQ: Do you know that Rowoon got his first award as Best New Actor in the 2019 MBC Drama Awards for Extraordinary You? Yes, he did!

She Would Never Know & The King's Affection (2021)

She Would Never Know Poster
Image from Soompi
The King
Image from allkpop

She Would Never Know

She Would Never Know is a drama that explores the complications of workplace relationships and the conflicts that arise when professional and romantic interests collide. Rowoon, who plays the character of Cha Hyun-seung, harbors a secret love for his colleague, Yoon Song-ah (Won Jin-ah), who is committed to her career and opposes office romances.

The King's Affection

The same year, Rowoon starred alongside actress Park Eun-bin in the historical drama The King's Affection. Set in the Joseon era, the story revolves around Crown Prince Yi-won (played by Park Eun-bin) and Jung Ji Woon (portrayed by Rowoon), Crown Prince's tutor. The drama explores themes of gender identity, romance, and the challenges of pursuing one's passion in a society bound by strict conventions.

 

In recognition of his remarkable performance in this drama, he received three prestigious awards at the 2021 KBS Drama Awards: the Best Couple Award, the Netizen Award, and the New Actor Award. These clearly indicate his desire to improve as an individual and artist.

Tomorrow (2022)

Tomorrow Poster
Image from The Korea Herald

In 2022, Rowoon starred in Tomorrow, a fantasy drama based on the webcomic "Naeil". The storyline revolves around a group of grim reapers whose mission is to prevent human suicides. Rowoon took on the role of Choi Jun-woong, who became a member of this extraordinary team. Together, they venture into people's suffering, offering support and hope to help them rediscover the strength to carry on with their lives.

A Time Called You & Destined With You (2023)

Rowoon
Image from Filmfare
The King
Image from Soompi

A Time Called You

This year, Rowoon had a series of exciting projects lined up. Among these was a cameo role in A Time Called You, a series starring Ahn Hyo-seop and Jeon Yeo-bin, which garnered attention for its plot and timeline. Rowoon's role here highlighted his versatility as an actor. His appearance in Episode 8 was a surprise to viewers. 

 

If you want to know why, you should watch the series!

Destined With You

His most recent drama, Destined With You, concluded its final episode on October 12. In this series, Rowoon played the role of Jang Shin-yu, a lawyer burdened by a centuries-old curse. The key to his freedom lies with Lee Hong-jo (Jo Bo-ah), a civil servant, who happens to obtain a forbidden book that was thoroughly sealed 300 years ago. They cross paths and become intertwined by timing and destiny.

 

This show is a must-watch if you crave a blend of folklore and modern drama!

What's on the Horizon for Actor Rowoon?

After Destined With You, Rowoon is gearing up for an exciting project alongside actress Cho Yi-hyun in The Matchmakers. This series is scheduled to air every Monday and Tuesday beginning October 30, 2023.

 

In the series, Rowoon will portray Sim Jung-woo, a brilliant and charismatic young man whose life became tragic when his bride died on their wedding day. Following this, he becomes involved with Jung Soon-deok (Cho Yi-hyun) as they collaborate as matchmakers, helping older single men and women find love.

Rowoon's jam-packed schedule is a testament to his dedication as he continues to be a rising star to watch in the industry. While fans may miss Rowoon as an idol, we can anticipate witnessing his remarkable potential as he embarks on this chapter of his career as an actor.

 

Are you excited to watch his upcoming drama? Share your thoughts in the comment section!

How tall is Rowoon?

Some reports say he's 189cm tall, but he mentioned in a show Idol Room, that he is actually 190.5cm. Either way, he is listed as one of the tallest Korean idols and actors!

Does Rowoon have a sibling?

Yes! He has a sister two years older than him, with whom he has a love-hate relationship, but they became closer when he debuted and lived away from his family.

Is Rowoon a foodie?

Yes! He loves food and is not a picky eater. He also cooks!


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


We Bring Korea to you!

Happiness delivered from Korea to your doorstep! Experience the best of Korean culture with Daebak Box!