Moon Sang-min Reflects on Memorable Moments as 'Music Bank' MC and His Rising Acting Career

"LE SSERAFIM's 'CRAZY' stage is the most memorable for me. Watching their performance was truly amazing."

In a recent interview at a cafe in Gangnam, Seoul, Moon Sang-min, the male lead of 'Beloved Thief,' shared his thoughts. Having stepped down last month after a 1-year and 8-month stint as an MC for 'Music Bank,' he was asked about his most memorable stage. LE SSERAFIM, a five-member girl group under HYBE's Source Music, was his answer.

Born in 2000, Moon Sang-min debuted as an actor in the web drama 'Four Reasons I Hate Christmas' in late 2019. He rose to stardom in 2022, playing the role of Prince Seongnam, Kim Hye-soo's son, in 'Under the Queen's Umbrella.' He was later cast as the male lead in 'Wedding Impossible' and 'Cinderella at 2 AM,' starring opposite Jeon Jong-seo (1994) and Shin Hyun-bin (1986), respectively. This year, he showcased a romantic chemistry with Nam Ji-hyun, who is five years his senior. Known for his 191cm 'door-like' physique and fresh visuals, he is receiving continuous love calls in the romance genre.

Premiering on October 3rd, KBS2's 'Beloved Thief' tells the story of a woman who becomes the greatest thief by chance and a Joseon prince chasing her. Their souls switch, leading to a dangerous yet grand romance where they save each other and ultimately protect the people. Moon Sang-min plays Prince Lee Yeol, opposite Nam Ji-hyun's character, Hong Eun-jo, receiving praise for their historical romance. The drama, which provided a turning point for KBS, achieved a peak rating of 7.7% (Nielsen Korea nationwide), marking a successful run.

Moon Sang-min served as a fixed MC for 'Music Bank' from May 2024 to January 2026. He mentioned NCT WISH from SM Entertainment as his 'pursuit' and spoke about the changes he experienced through his MC role. "Being an MC requires a lot of quick thinking. I also took on many challenges. Having hosted for about two years, there are definite changes before and after," he began. He continued, "My quick thinking has improved significantly. I've also developed a habit of organizing my thoughts, constantly arranging my comments. Even when I'm with friends, I feel like I'm still hosting," he laughed.

He added, "During the recent Lunar New Year, when my family gathered, I found myself hosting the recreation activities. The quick thinking I've naturally acquired has been very helpful," he smiled. Moon Sang-min enthusiastically shared, "I've made many friends through 'Music Bank.' The best part was experiencing firsthand how much K-pop is loved worldwide."

He concluded, "I get to see the stages up close. Watching from such a close distance, I understand why K-pop is so passionately loved. I often reflect on the meaningful time I spent over those two years."

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