Kim Yo-han: From Idol to Actor, Overcoming Challenges and Expanding His Career

'You Know What?' Reporter Lee So-jung from TENASIA captures intriguing issues in the broadcasting world to stimulate the public's dopamine.

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Singer and actor Kim Yo-han has announced his return with three projects this year, overcoming a four-year hiatus. After a dazzling debut as the center of 'Produce X 101', he faced the disbandment of his group but has since paved a new path as an actor, solidifying his career. While his achievements as a singer have been relatively quiet, he has secured leading roles on major networks, establishing his presence as an actor.

Kim Yo-han majored in Taekwondo at Seoul Physical Education High School before enrolling in Sangmyung University's Department of Social Physical Education. His career took a turn in 2019 when he appeared on Mnet's 'Produce X 101'. Despite having only three months of trainee experience and being considered inexperienced among highly skilled trainees, his charm shone through. With his handsome appearance, height of 181.6 cm, diligent and easygoing personality, and rapidly improving performance skills, he captured attention throughout the show, ultimately ranking first among 101 contestants.

However, the glory of debut was short-lived. The group X1, which Kim Yo-han was part of, disbanded after five months due to a voting manipulation controversy involving Mnet's production team. Unlike Kang Daniel, who gained explosive popularity with Wanna One after debuting as the center of 'Produce 101 Season 2', Kim Yo-han's opportunity was thwarted by the scandal.

Despite the setback, Kim Yo-han did not stop. In October 2020, he re-debuted with the six-member group WEi, planned by his agency OUI Entertainment, and made his acting debut in the web drama 'A Love So Beautiful' in December of the same year. In this project, he portrayed a youthful character embodying the innocence of first love, showcasing stable acting skills and proving his potential.

In 2021, he secured a leading role in KBS2's traditional school drama 'School 2021'. This year, he starred alongside Yoon Kye-sang in the SBS drama 'The Winning Try' (hereafter 'Try'), achieving ratings between 4-6% and receiving positive reviews. His realistic acting as a former athlete and sincere emotional expressions resonated with viewers.

Kim Yo-han experienced a four-year hiatus before 'Try'. In an interview after the show's conclusion in August, he confessed, "The anxiety during those four years was indescribable." He added, "I had about three projects that fell through even after script readings, leading to 2-3 years passing by." During this challenging period, he shared, "I was suppressing myself to the ground. I didn't even want to leave the house. Still, I kept practicing acting for those four years. I believed things would work out, but they always fell apart at the last minute. It was truly difficult as time went on."

The project that ended his waiting was 'Try'. Kim Yo-han successfully returned with a high-quality performance, proving both his authenticity and influence as an actor.

Currently, Kim Yo-han is preparing for two upcoming projects: the Wavve original drama 'LOVE.exe' and the film 'Made in Itaewon(메이드 인 이태원)'. The film marks his first movie challenge in six years since his debut, raising expectations.

Kim Yo-han continues to balance his activities as a member of WEi. He missed the mini 7th album activities in January due to his acting schedule but returned to the stage with his members for the 8th album released after nine months. As his filmography grows and his image as an actor strengthens, his commitment to his idol roots remains noteworthy.

Unexpected turning points have led him to pursue acting. Currently, Kim Yo-han is considered the most active member among the 11 former X1 members. While Cho Seung-youn stands out in the music industry as WOODZ, Kim Yo-han continues to expand his presence as an actor.

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