Son Na-eun Shines in 'Hotel Goblin' with Her Versatile Charm

After leaving Apink in 2022 to pursue an acting career, Son Na-eun has filled 'Hotel Goblin' with positive energy through her dynamic roles in the front desk, kitchen, and outdoor activities.

Son Na-eun perfectly transformed into a hotelier on MBC Every1's variety show 'Hotel Goblin,' which concluded on the 10th. She shared the warmth of Korean hospitality with foreign guests, wrapping up a magical 6-night, 7-day journey.

'Hotel Goblin' is a real variety show featuring a unique concept of a 'hotel that opens for just one week and then disappears.' Alongside Son Na-eun, Go Doo-shim, Kwon Yul, Kim Dong-jun, Lee Dae-hwi, and Jeon Sung-gon opened a traditional Korean hotel in Jeju Island, embarking on a series of adventurous challenges.

On the sixth day of operations, Son Na-eun participated in a submarine activity to enjoy the mysterious beauty of the Jeju sea. She spent a healing time with foreign guests, marveling at the breathtaking underwater scenery.

Son Na-eun showcased her presence as the mascot of 'Hotel Goblin,' bustling around the hotel. She assisted with front desk duties by translating for foreign guests and helped in the kitchen, ensuring the guests' culinary satisfaction. Notably, she approached a foreign guest struggling with making kimbap, offering a friendly explanation and engaging in small talk, highlighting her role as a mood maker.

Through 'Hotel Goblin,' Son Na-eun presented an unpretentious and relatable side, capturing viewers' hearts with her charmingly clumsy appeal, distinct from her glamorous on-screen persona. With sincerity, she navigated unexpected situations with her team, fostering connections that transcended borders and languages.

Tearing up as she bid farewell to the foreign guests, Son Na-eun reflected, "I feel like I've grown and developed more. I wondered if I could be someone needed, but I've learned a lot through 'Hotel Goblin.'"

Son Na-eun is set to appear in the upcoming SBS drama 'Kim Bu-jang,' scheduled to air in 2026, where she will play 'Sang-ah,' a character working with Kim Bu-jang (played by So Ji-sub) who harbors a secret.

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