Former K-Pop Idols Transition to Acting: A New Chapter for Gong Ji-ho, Park Si-yeon, and Lim Do-hwa

In a fascinating shift within the entertainment industry, former K-pop idols are making waves as they transition into acting. Among them are Gong Ji-ho, Park Si-yeon, and Lim Do-hwa, who have embarked on new journeys as actors, leaving behind their idol days.

Gong Ji-ho, born in 1997, debuted with the group Oh My Girl in 2015. Despite a slow start, her popularity soared after the group's appearance on Mnet's 'Queendom' in 2019. However, in May 2022, Ji-ho parted ways with WM Entertainment and left the group, which continued as a six-member ensemble.

In August 2022, Ji-ho signed an exclusive contract with P&Studio and adopted the stage name Gong Ji-ho. Her first acting role came in the SBS drama 'Treasure Island,' which aired from February to April this year, marking her official entry into the acting world.

In an interview last April, Gong Ji-ho expressed her dedication to acting, stating, "I am focused solely on acting now, and I have no regrets about my singing career." She added, "I want to be remembered by my character names, not as 'Oh My Girl Ji-ho.'"

Another notable transition is that of Park Si-yeon, a former member of Pristin. Born in 2000, she gained attention as a standout contestant on 'Produce 101' in 2016. After Pristin disbanded, Park Si-yeon pursued acting, signing with S.A.L.T Entertainment in 2023 and building her filmography through various short-form dramas and films.

In a January interview, Park Si-yeon revealed the physical challenges she faced as an idol, including severe back issues and multiple ankle surgeries. Despite these hardships, she remains passionate about her acting career, stating, "I have no regrets about the past and am eager to focus on my acting projects."

Lim Do-hwa, formerly known as Chanmi of AOA, also announced her new path as an actress earlier this year. Born in 1996, she was the youngest member of AOA, debuting in 2012. After leaving FNC Entertainment last year, she joined Dante Entertainment to pursue acting.

Lim Do-hwa explained her decision to switch careers, saying, "I thought FNC would be my first and last company, but I realized I needed a new perspective to grow as an actress." She added, "I've done everything I wanted as a singer and am now captivated by the acting profession."

Other idols, such as YooA from Oh My Girl and JooA from Weeekly, have also announced their transitions to acting, seeking new challenges after parting ways with their long-time agencies.

Gong Ji-ho, Park Si-yeon, and Lim Do-hwa all share a common sentiment: "We have no regrets about our idol days and are eager for acting opportunities." Having experienced immense popularity as idols, they are now ready to showcase their dedication and sincerity in the acting realm.

While the number of roles they have taken on is still limited, and the competition in the acting industry is fierce, these former idols are determined to succeed. They have acknowledged the challenges and learned humility through their experiences. Fans are eagerly anticipating their growth and success in this new chapter of their careers.

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