From 'Produce 101' to Promising Actors: The Journey of Kim Min-kyu and Yoon Jae-chan

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"'Produce 101' made me stronger."

This is a sentiment shared by Kim Min-kyu and Yoon Jae-chan, both of whom participated in Mnet's audition program 'Produce 101'. In interviews with TenAsia this year, these former idol hopefuls discussed their transition to acting and their current passion for their craft.

The 'Produce 101' series was marred by a voting manipulation scandal, leading to its cancellation. The controversy highlighted not only the rigged voting but also the harsh conditions and treatment of the trainees. Despite the intense competition, participants were known for their relentless pursuit of their dreams. Both Kim and Yoon cherish their experiences on the show and express no regrets.

Kim Min-kyu was interviewed in June. He played the role of Do Seong-dae-gun in the drama 'The Crown Prince Has Disappeared'. The show started with a 1.5% viewership rating and climbed to over 4% by its 16th episode, concluding with a 5.1% rating.

Born in 2001, Kim Min-kyu appeared on 'Produce X 101' in 2019 as a trainee from Jellyfish Entertainment. He gained attention for his good looks and maintained a high ranking throughout the show, though he was ultimately eliminated in 12th place due to critiques of his performance skills.

After failing to debut as an idol, Kim shifted his focus to acting, debuting as a lead in the 2020 web series 'Best Mistake'. He has since expanded his acting repertoire with roles in 'The Fabulous' and 'Maestra'. His visual appeal and calm acting style have proven his potential as an actor.

In the interview, Kim stated, "The experience from 'Produce X 101' allows me to continue my acting career with composure." He added, "The survival show was tough but rewarding. Fans who supported my idol journey now support my acting, which is meaningful." Kim expressed a willingness to participate in the show again if given the chance.

Following Kim, the press also interviewed Yoon Jae-chan, highlighting emerging actors. Born in 1999, Yoon appeared on 'Produce 101 Season 2' in 2017, ranking in the 40s. He later debuted in the duo XRO, active from July 2020 to April 2022, and is now focusing on acting while releasing solo music.

Yoon made a notable impression in last year's drama 'Shining Watermelon' and continues to gain attention with roles in 'Kang Mae Kang', 'Intimate Betrayer', and 'Love on a Tightrope'.

Yoon also attributes special significance to his 'Produce 101 Season 2' experience. He recalled, "It was the hardest time of my life, with only two hours of sleep a day and a diet of pork stir-fry." Despite the hardships, he values the experience and the bonds formed with fellow trainees.

Yoon stated, "The psychological strain of competition made me stronger," and considers it a meaningful chapter in his life. He expressed a willingness to participate in 'Produce 101 Season 2' again if given the opportunity.

Both Kim Min-kyu and Yoon Jae-chan have shown unwavering dedication to their craft, both during their time on 'Produce 101' and in their current acting careers. They believe the challenges they face in acting are surmountable compared to their past experiences on the show. Their passion and hard work continue to fuel their promising careers in acting.

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