Many idols turn to acting with varying aspirations; however, not everyone manages to succeed.
It has become a trend for Kpop idols to cross into acting. There is a transparent divide between actors and idols. When an idol attempts to cross that boundary, they usually receive cold shoulders from the audience.
When this discussion is brought to the public, there are polarizing opinions. On one hand, netizens disapprove of idols crossing into acting because they are not properly trained in acting like most actors are. However, others think the public is too harsh on idol-actors and lash back that they are holding a double standard to idols and trying to discriminate against them.
From a neutral standpoint, some audiences argue that being strict is understandable when idols are more familiar with dancing, singing, and performing onstage; having to act will certainly cause a sense of suspicion. When Jisoo was first announced as the female lead of “Snowdrop,” the public was hesitant because her background was in singing and dancing. Nonetheless, she proved otherwise and pulled a surprisingly adept performance.
Another BLACKPINK member, Jennie, also crossed into acting with the Hollywood production “The Idol,” but she had more struggles. The HBO’s miniseries was heavily criticized for excessive sexual content and a degenerate view of women. In turn, Jennie was frequently embroiled in controversies over explicit and suggestive choreography.
What entails from pure skepticism is an apparent lack of skills from idols. This is expressed in an idol’s performance on-screen. Therefore, when they attempt to chart a course into filming, idols usually have to take crash courses and observe their seniors.
However, it is not easy since idols themselves already have an intense schedule, which severely limits their chance to hone their acting skills.
No matter the training, one thing that is out of an idol’s reach is their fans. More often than not, fans can have a conservative view of their idols’ relationship, which causes feelings of betrayal and subsequent “exit” from the fandom.
Acting debut after an arduous process of idol debut is like a never-ending challenge. However, an idol actually receives honor and prestige from being in that position. In every generation of K-pop, there are idols who are trained to make an acting debut in the future.
Turning to acting can sediment an idol’s position in their field and allow them to earn more respect and income. When joining a new filming cast and crew, these idols can learn from professionally trained idols and open up about their social circles.
Some idol-actors are so successful in the filming industry that the general public actually forgets they started as idols. Some examples are Suzy, Lee Jun Ho, YoonA, Kim Se Jeong, and D.O. They have come a long way through many obstacles, such as doubt, skepticism, and even hate.
When she first started acting, Suzy was first as a “untalented visual” because she only looked pretty on-screen and could not act. However, she starred in “Anna,” the actress got the chance to show how capable she was. YoonA also strives forward and breaks through different challenges. She recently made a promising comeback with “King the Land”, where she stars alongside Lee Jun Ho.
Lee Jun Ho, who debuted as a member of 2PM, has also been recognized as a capable actor, even winning Best Actor at the Baeksang Arts Award with his portrayal in “The Red Sleeve”.
Meanwhile, Cha Eun Woo overcame harsh criticisms of having “stiff expressions” after flawlessly completing his role in “Island.” He was nominated “Best New Actor” at “The Blue Dragon Series Awards,” a considerable milestone for Cha Eun Woo as an actor.
Source: saostar
