Rowoon Discusses His Role in Disney+ Series 'Turbid Flow' and Prepares for Military Enlistment

Rowoon showcases his dedication to self-care even as he prepares for military enlistment.

On the 15th, at a café in Sogyeok-dong, Seoul, we met Rowoon, the star of the Disney+ original series 'Turbid Flow'.

'Turbid Flow' is a historical drama set around Gyeonggang, where all the money and resources of Joseon converge. It tells the story of individuals with different dreams who strive to overturn a corrupt world and carve out their destinies. This is Disney+'s first historical series. Rowoon plays Jang Si-yul, a laborer hiding his past, who becomes a rogue in Gyeonggang.

Rowoon returns to the screen with this drama, two years after 'The Wedding Battle'. He expressed his excitement, saying, "I'm happy to have a new project out after such a long time."

Regarding his role as a rogue, Rowoon humorously noted, "I've played many pretty and handsome roles. When I told people about my role as a rogue, they said 'Good casting' and joked, 'You don't even need to act!' When I play handsome roles, they say, 'It must be hard for you to act.'"

Rowoon expressed his satisfaction with the positive reviews of his acting, saying, "I'm proud. I look up my name several times a day." He added, "I was worried about how people would perceive this character, which is different from what I've done before. But it was an image I wanted to try. I thought, 'People like this side of me too. After the military, I can expand the range of roles I can take on.'" He was particularly pleased with comments like 'Great action scenes' and 'His eyes convey the story even without dialogue.' Rowoon credited the director for his success, saying, "I wanted to comment that it's all thanks to the director."

While acknowledging his striking visuals, Rowoon reflected, "Good looks don't last forever. I wondered if I could rely on just one 'weapon' for a long time. Can I persuade the public and fans with this image? There were always challenges." He added, "I need to apply sunscreen, lose weight, and not bulk up too much while in the military."

Appearing much slimmer than during last month's production presentation, Rowoon revealed, "I was surprised by my face then. I lost 8kg in a week. I didn't eat and played tennis." He humorously explained the weight gain, saying, "Before enlisting, my mom cooked hearty meals, and her food is delicious."

Rowoon, who is set to enlist on the 27th, shared, "A senior told me, 'You've gained weight,' not just 'You've gained a little.' I was shocked. I replied, 'Can't I gain weight before the military?' but I lost it. Photos can still circulate while I'm in the military. I can't be known as 'Relaxed Rowoon in the military.'" He laughed. When asked about his pre-enlistment plans, he said, "I have a dental appointment tomorrow and an event the day after. I'm planning a small trip near Gyeonggi-do with my mom, dad, and sister."

The final episodes 8 and 9 of 'Turbid Flow' will be released on the 17th.

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