Acting Over Idol Activities? Somewhat Similar Situations of Former SF9’s Rowoon and VIXX’s N
Two idol-turned actors, VIXX’s N (Cha Hak-yeon) and ex-SF9’s Rowoon, are having seemingly similar career paths
While VIXX is set to make a comeback on November 21st with their fifth mini-album ‘CONTINUUM,’ VIXX’s leader and actor Cha Hak-yeon has announced his absence from the group’s promotions.
On November 5th, Cha Hak-yeon’s agency revealed, “N will inevitably be unable to participate in VIXX’s fifth mini-album ‘CONTINUUM’ release and album activities scheduled for November 21st due to a conflicting schedule with album production and drama filming.”
Cha Hak-yeon also expressed through VIXX’s official fan cafe, “I have thought a lot about whether this indefinite waiting is causing difficulty for the fans and putting pressure on the members who are currently protecting VIXX. I have had extensive discussions and consultations with the members over a long period of time, but ultimately, I will not be able to participate in this promotion as N, the leader of VIXX.”
VIXX fans are unable to conceal their disappointment regarding Cha Hak-yeon’s decision.
This comeback holds significant meaning for both the members and fans of VIXX. It marks VIXX’s first full group comeback in four years and two months since 2019.
Previously, VIXX had two members depart from the group. In 2020, Hongbin left the group after sparking controversy by making derogatory remarks about other idols during a live broadcast. Then, in January, Ravi left the group due to a military service-related controversy, leading to VIXX’s restructuring as a four-member ensemble.
Some argue that Cha Hak-yeon’s decision is a necessary course of action to avoid causing damage to his activities as an actor, given his dedication to acting since 2014. However, fans who have been eagerly waiting for VIXX’s full group promotions, despite N’s previous non-participation in certain activities, are expressing their disappointment.
This situation is reminiscent of Rowoon’s recent departure from SF9.
In September, Rowoon officially left SF9 after seven years. FNC Entertainment announced that SF9 would continue with the remaining eight members, excluding Rowoon, and that Rowoon would focus on solo activities, including acting.
Rowoon also conveyed his feelings through a handwritten letter, “There was also a sense of frustration that I couldn’t clarify every misunderstanding. I believed that sincerity would eventually get through. I was focused on the immediate tasks at hand. It was a time when I couldn’t afford to have the courage to refute misunderstandings one by one. I feel truly sorry if there are fans who were hurt or felt disappointed by my negligent attitude.”
He continued, “I want to try new challenges. I was unsure of how to approach this or where to start. It felt overwhelming, but I want to express that I want to have the courage to take on new challenges” as he announced his departure from SF9 to focus on his acting career.
Rowoon had been juggling both SF9 and acting schedules. After debuting with SF9 in 2016, he began his acting career in 2017 with and subsequently appeared in various dramas, establishing his position as an actor.
After gaining recognition as an actor, Rowoon’s participation in SF9’s activities gradually decreased. Despite fans expressing their disappointment, he ultimately decided to leave SF9, admitting that he had lacked the courage to do so.
However, Cha Hak-yeon’s situation is currently different as he has declared a temporary absence rather than a complete departure. He has promised to not forget his roots as a member of VIXX and to do his best to repay with a good image.
It’s also interesting to note that both Cha Hak-yeon, starring in tvN’s weekend drama ‘Castaway Diva,’ and Rowoon, starring in KBS’s Monday-Tuesday drama ‘The Matchmakers,’ have started airing at the same time.
Source: naver
