Rowoon Reflects on His Transformative Role in Disney+'s 'The Murky Stream' Ahead of Military Enlistment

"Popularity gained from looks doesn't last long. Can I sustain it with just one 'weapon'? Can I persuade the public and fans with this image? I've always pondered these questions."

As Disney+ historical series 'The Murky Stream' approaches its finale, Rowoon shared his reasons for taking on a rogue character, a stark contrast to his previous 'nobleman' image. 'The Murky Stream' tells the story of people carving out their destinies in Gyeonggang (the Han River), where money and resources converge in Joseon. Just before his military enlistment, Rowoon successfully expanded his acting range with 'The Murky Stream'. He expressed his satisfaction with the positive reviews, saying, "I'm proud. I look up the reviews several times a day and even search my name, Rowoon, multiple times a day," he said happily.

"I was worried about how people would perceive a character with a different vibe from what I've done so far. But it was an image I wanted to try. I thought, 'People like this side of me too. The range of roles I can take on after the military will broaden.' I was especially pleased with reactions like 'He does action well' and 'He explains with his eyes even without dialogue.' I wanted to comment that it's all thanks to the director. Haha."

Rowoon, who challenged himself with a new character, found great satisfaction in acting through 'The Murky Stream'. He shared that he had many personal conversations with director Choo Chang-min, discussing his life's ups and downs while developing the character.

"I talked a lot with the director, and he told me, 'You're lonelier than I thought.' He wanted me to bring out those aspects in my acting. Playing Siyul this time, I felt a sense of release. Sometimes, I felt a sense of freedom. After each shoot, I would shout, 'The Murky Stream is delicious.' At 28, I poured all my acting into it every day. Ah! It was really refreshing. I want to keep the conversations I had with the director as a 'weapon' within me and express them in various ways. I feel relieved when my loneliness aligns with the character's emotions."

Due to the character's tumultuous nature, Rowoon is often seen in shabby attire throughout the drama. He even had unexpected exposure due to not being properly dressed. Rowoon laughed, "I did an underwear ad, remember? I lost a lot of body fat using that experience. I thought it would be nice to have a body that feels like a stray cat, not a polished look but a wild one."

"When I showed the director my muscular body, he said, 'It looks too pretty to fit the character.' It meant that a six-pack didn't suit Siyul's reality. So I said, 'Thank you~' and ate two hamburgers. Haha."

Rowoon revealed that he gained confidence from this project. He stated, "I'm serious about acting. I love acting, both doing it and watching it," and added, "I've gained confidence that I can become a really good actor and a good person."

Rowoon's enlistment date is the 27th. He shared, "The military is a place where you follow orders. In society, I have a lot of responsibilities, but in the military, if you do what you're told and avoid what you're not supposed to do, you get a Choco Pie, so it might be easier. It seems like it will be a time to detox my body and soul." Previously, Rowoon's active-duty enlistment was postponed once due to health reasons.

"The enlistment was postponed once, so I did everything I wanted to do before. I met everyone, drank with friends, traveled with my mom and dad... I was able to attend the Busan International Film Festival and participate in 'The Murky Stream' promotions. It's all a blessing. I even did a photo shoot with a shaved head. It was a bit embarrassing not to go after doing everything. Now, I want to go. Haha. On the other hand, I haven't even gone yet, but I'm thinking about the discharge date. I want to come back quickly and work."

Born in 1996, Rowoon will be in his 30s after discharge. When asked about his expectations as an actor in his 30s, Rowoon laughed and said, "I think I'll be very sexy. I'm really looking forward to it." He continued, "I'm looking forward to the future. I'm excited for my 40s and 50s too. I think I'll be able to experience a lot more by letting go a bit. I have a sense of anticipation." When asked about the genre he wants to challenge after discharge, Rowoon replied,

"Personally, I want to wear a school uniform again. Haha. As long as I take care of myself! I'm going to buy 20 cleansing foams and have already bought two bottles of sunscreen. People say I look younger with short hair. I've recently been ID checked three times. Haha. It's a playful desire, but it's not entirely without intention."

His expected discharge date is April 26, 2027. Regarding the changes he anticipates after discharge, he said, "A psychologist I like said that the moment you stop having questions is when you age. I believe 'the eyes can't lie.' I think my eyes are clear. Everything is fascinating and fun. I think I'll see the world the same way after the military."

Finally, Rowoon told his fans, "I'll adapt well in the military and come back after serving honorably, so don't worry and look forward to my return." He also added, "I have many works on OTT. I'd appreciate it if you keep watching them for the next 1 year and 6 months," and ended with a salute, "Loyalty!"

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr