Park Si-yeon and Cha Hak-yeon Take Bold Steps in Their Acting Careers with New Roles

Park Si-yeon and Cha Hak-yeon, both of whom have faced numerous challenges on their paths to becoming actors, have confirmed their roles in a sexual romance genre and a BL (Boys' Love) drama, respectively. However, despite the excitement of landing leading roles, there is uncertainty about whether these genre choices will positively impact their long-term acting careers.

Former Pristin member Park Si-yeon has taken on the lead role in Story Reels' original short-form drama 'Share House.' Released on October 18, 'Share House' is a mobile-exclusive vertical drama based on a romance webtoon and game, set against the backdrop of a dating program with ex-lovers. The show features a unique rule requiring daily physical contact with others, with the ultimate winner receiving a prize of 100 million won.

Park Si-yeon debuted as a child actress in the 2004 MBC drama 'The Prince's First Love.' She gained recognition after appearing on Mnet's survival show 'Produce 101' in 2016 and was known as the youngest trainee under Pledis Entertainment. After the show's conclusion, she debuted with the girl group Pristin in 2017, but the group disbanded in 2019, leading her to transition to acting.

Park Si-yeon has built her filmography with roles in films like 'Sillim Men and Women' and dramas such as 'Trap,' 'Dark Hole,' and 'Cheer Up.' Her minor role in the SBS drama 'Cheer Up' received positive feedback despite its limited screen time, as it aired on a major network. However, after a two-year hiatus, her casting in a sexual romance genre has raised concerns about potential objectification.

The fact that 'Share House' is limited to a mobile platform could negatively impact Park Si-yeon's acting career. While it may boost her short-term popularity, there is a risk of her being typecast with a sexualized image without a defining work in her portfolio.

VIXX member and actor Cha Hak-yeon has also confirmed his role in the BL drama 'The Killer Next Door.' Cha debuted in 2012 as the leader and main dancer of VIXX, playing a key role in the group's identity. He began his acting career with the 2014 MBC drama 'Hotel King' and has steadily built his filmography.

In 2021, Cha appeared in four tvN dramas and continued his active career with roles in MBC's 'Tomorrow,' 'Joseon Lawyer,' and last year's tvN 'Diva of the Deserted Island.' He is also cast in the upcoming MBC drama 'Labor Attorney No Moo-jin,' set to air next year.

The news of Cha Hak-yeon's BL drama role has left fans with mixed feelings. The BL genre is often chosen by rookie actors to gain attention and recognition. Given Cha's over a decade-long acting career, some find his decision surprising. Industry insiders suggest it was the best opportunity for him to secure a leading role.

Cha Hak-yeon has faced criticism from fans for not leaving VIXX despite his long absence from group activities. His continued presence in the group without participating in music activities is seen as a burden on other members. The announcement of his role in 'The Killer Next Door' has further fueled controversy among fans.

'The Killer Next Door' is a BL drama about a professional baseball player and a fan, with Cha playing the role of the fan. While some view this as a positive new challenge, most fans are concerned about the potential negative impact of the BL genre on his established acting career in mainstream dramas.

Park Si-yeon and Cha Hak-yeon have successfully secured leading roles and generated buzz with their latest projects. However, given the significant impact of sexual romance and BL genres on an actor's image, there is more concern than anticipation about how these decisions will affect their careers in the long run.