From K-Pop Star to Rising Actress: Gong Ji-ho's Journey and Future Aspirations

Catch the Shining Stars of the Entertainment Industry

---

"I debuted as a girl group member in 2015, and in 2025, my first acting project 'Treasure Island' was released. I wonder what I'll be doing on my 30th anniversary. I couldn't have imagined my current self back in 2015."

These were the words of Gong Ji-ho during an interview at a café in Gangnam, Seoul, on the 10th. She expressed, “I place more significance on the future than the past. There were moments of hard work and some regrets, but now I think more about the present and future than the past.”

Gong Ji-ho debuted in April 2015 with the group Oh My Girl and transitioned to acting after leaving the group in May 2022. Known as Jiho of Oh My Girl, she signed with P&Studio, where Park Hyung-sik is also signed, and changed her stage name to Gong Ji-ho. Although this news broke in 2022, her first project, 'Treasure Island,' aired in February this year. It took about three years from her departure to her acting debut.

From her last appearance in February 2022 to her return in April 2025, Gong Ji-ho underwent significant changes. Leaving the girl group, a three-year hiatus, and finally her first acting project marked a turning point in her career. Upon hearing the news of her role in the drama 'Treasure Island,' an interview request was made, leading to this cherished meeting after half a year.

Gong Ji-ho shared, "I dreamed of becoming a celebrity since elementary school. My first dream was to be an actress. Then, during middle school, I listened to a lot of music and shifted towards becoming an idol." She indirectly mentioned her contract expiration, saying, "When I had the chance to reorganize, I thought about pursuing what I dreamed of as a child."

"I was 26 at the time. It was a period when my friends were preparing for jobs. I saw it as an opportunity to prepare for a career in acting, even without prior experience."

She added, "My parents initially opposed my idol preparation. They were concerned that being a trainee might prevent me from focusing on academics as a teenager. Just as there are emotions unique to that age, I believe preparing to be an actress at 26 can be a meaningful life lesson."

When asked if her parents were strongly opposed, Gong Ji-ho replied, "Not really. They weren't initially supportive, but once I asserted my autonomy, they understood and have been supportive ever since. They just want me to be healthy and happy. They are my pillar, telling me I can quit anytime if it's too hard." She expressed gratitude, adding, "After 'Treasure Island' aired, my parents were especially happy. Many of their acquaintances watched it."

In 'Treasure Island,' Gong Ji-ho played the role of a genius hacker, Myung Tae-geum, adding tension to the unpredictable plot while proving her presence as a supporter of the protagonist Seo Dong-joo, played by Park Hyung-sik. She said, "My primary goal was not to stand out in a cast of esteemed seniors. I wanted to blend well with the flow, and I feel accomplished and grateful for achieving that."

Reflecting on her first project, she added, "I felt proud when objective acquaintances praised my tone." Gong Ji-ho successfully left a mark with her debut project.

Expressing her passion and thirst for acting, Gong Ji-ho hopes to explore the romantic comedy genre. She named 'Melo Is My Nature' as her favorite work, stating, "I want to be part of a story where the rhythm and banter connect humorously. I have a strong desire to challenge new genres."

Gong Ji-ho also expressed admiration for Chun Woo-hee and Kim Hae-sook, saying, "As much as I am deeply moved by their performances, it would be an honor to work with them in the same project. I will work hard to make that wish come true."

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr