Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
Figure skating gold medalist Cha Jun-hwan has expressed his intention to pursue an acting career after retirement.
On the October 8th episode of JTBC's 'Knowing Bros,' the 2001-born 'Figure Prince' Cha Jun-hwan appeared as a guest.
During the show, Cha shared insights and behind-the-scenes stories about his recent gold medal win. In discussions about athletic slumps and doping tests, former basketball player Seo Jang-hoon also candidly shared his past experiences.
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
Cha explained how he started figure skating, saying, "I transitioned from being a child actor, and I initially took up skating thinking it might help with acting. I even modeled for snack and insurance commercials and played the young version of Jung Il-woo in 'The Return of Iljimae.'"
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
He added, "I was very shy and reserved by nature, but through figure skating, I found freedom and interest, which eventually led me to become an athlete."
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
Cha also shared his stress-relief methods, saying, "I take Sundays off to go running or for a walk." When Seo Jang-hoon jokingly asked if he meets a girlfriend during these outings, Cha was visibly flustered, drawing laughter from the audience.
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
Known for his exceptional skills and striking looks, Cha was asked if he ever dreamed of becoming an idol. He confessed, "I once received a business card from SM Entertainment."
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
He continued, "There are friends who transitioned from figure skating to becoming idols, like Sunghoon from ENHYPEN," and surprised everyone by revealing a dance video they performed together.
Figure Skating Champion Cha Jun-hwan Eyes Acting Career Post-Retirement
Regarding his post-retirement plans, Cha stated, "Having transitioned from a child actor, I feel like I haven't fully explored that path. I would like to debut as an actor after retiring."
Meanwhile, Cha Jun-hwan clinched the gold medal in men's singles figure skating at the '2025 Harbin Winter Asian Games' and secured a silver medal at the '2025 ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships.' He is set to compete in the 2025 ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Boston next month.
