Recently, actor Cha Woo-min, who appears on TV all the time, has become 'the trend of certainty.'
There is an actor who demonstrated limitless activities through two works that have taken the spotlight this winter: the TVING original series 'Study Group' and the Netflix series 'Melo Movie.' That protagonist is none other than Cha Woo-min.
First, Cha Woo-min played the role of the absolute power figure and ultimate villain, Pi Han-ul, at Yuseong Technical High School in 'Study Group.' His sharp gaze captivated viewers beyond the screen, creating tension with just his appearance and delivering intensity in every episode.
On the other hand, Cha Woo-min in 'Melo Movie' was completely different. He transformed into Woo Jung-hoo, who grew up in the same neighborhood as Kim Movie (played by Park Bo-young), showcasing a refreshing youth with a new charm. The character he portrayed, Woo Jung-hoo, caught attention as another main character who added warmth and fun, and the affection he had harbored for Kim Movie for a long time amplified the warm sentiment unique to 'Melo Movie,' effectively playing the role of a bridge between Ko Kyung (played by Choi Woo-sik) and Kim Movie, naturally eliciting laughter from everyone.
In this manner, the two works featuring Cha Woo-min coincidentally premiered around the same time. However, he succeeded in attaching the most suitable persona to each character based on thorough script analysis and a wide-ranging spectrum, further proving his outstanding capabilities as an actor.
In this context, Cha Woo-min shared insights through a Q&A with his agency, Just Entertainment, covering topics from 'Study Group' and 'Melo Movie' to his future goals. Here is the Q&A with Cha Woo-min.
Actor Cha Woo-min's Q&A commemorating the full release of 'Study Group' and 'Melo Movie.'
Q1. You played Pi Han-ul in 'Study Group' and Woo Jung-hoo in 'Melo Movie.' The two characters have different personalities and situations but were released around the same time. What are your thoughts on that?
- I’m grateful to have the opportunity to portray such different characters, and I consider it lucky to be able to show two different sides at a similar time.
Q2. Pi Han-ul was positioned as a villain, yet there were differences from the characters you've portrayed before. It must have been a familiar yet new challenge. What was the most difficult point or what did you struggle with while acting?
- I wanted to portray the character Han-ul as an isolated individual who does not express his thoughts or feelings. I found it challenging to find points to express that well. So, I pondered a lot about how to portray the character Pi Han-ul and what attempts to make.
Q3. Many have reacted positively to your new appearance as Woo Jung-hoo in 'Melo Movie.' How did you come across this project, and what made you decide to participate?
- Since I’ve played villain roles until now, I thought it was time for a breakthrough in character change. At that moment, I encountered the character Woo Jung-hoo. Thankfully, I was given a valuable opportunity, and I did my best.
Q4. In 'Study Group,' you filmed with peers, while in 'Melo Movie,' you played the youngest among several seniors. How did the atmosphere differ on each set? Please share your most enjoyable memory from filming!
- Because 'Study Group' is an action genre, we practiced a lot of action coordination among the actors. In particular, the situation where I grew closer to actor Hwang Min-hyun while matching our coordination reminded me of the experience of getting closer while playing and having fun with childhood friends. So, it was enjoyable. (laughs)
On the other hand, in 'Melo Movie,' matching rhythms with many seniors was a new challenge. I was able to receive a lot of advice from my seniors on set, which helped me grow a little more as an actor in this project.
Q5. Is there a scene you personally like the most in 'Study Group' and 'Melo Movie'? Please briefly explain why.
- In 'Study Group,' I like the final action scene the most. It was impressive when actor Hwang Min-hyun and I struggled to make a better scene while considering each other. In 'Melo Movie,' I remember the scene where Jung-hoo conveyed his own comfort to Ko Kyung.
Q6. You seem to show no hesitation in action acting. You displayed powerful action while playing Pi Han-ul. Can you share the secret to your action acting?
- There is no special secret; I believe that consistent practice and image training are the answers. Of course, I cannot ignore the help from what I developed while exercising during my childhood.
Q7. Many fans are curious if Woo Jung-hoo's piercings are real. (laughs) Among the calm and imposing Pi Han-ul and the free-spirited yet lovely Woo Jung-hoo, which style does actor Cha Woo-min personally prefer?
- Jung-hoo’s piercings are attached with glue. (laughs) Every time I hear that it matches well on set, I jokingly asked a few times, 'Should I really get it done?' Both characters have their charm, but in reality, I find more similarities with Jung-hoo, so I prefer Jung-hoo’s style a little more.
Q8. The recently aired 'Treasure Island' is also receiving good responses. Can you briefly introduce the character you play?
- The character I play, Ji Sun-woo, in 'Treasure Island' is a friend with a pure soul. Later, this purity becomes an unpredictable variable. The remaining story will be even more interesting, so I hope you’ll watch it.
Q9. Your gradual accumulation of a filmography is impressive. What kind of actor do you want to become in the future?
- As I mentioned during the fan meeting, I want to continue to be active and become an actor deserving of love.
Q10. You gained many fans through 'Study Group' and 'Melo Movie.' Please say a word to the new fans cheering for you!
- I always hope to meet you with more works. I appreciate your continued interest and expectations. Thank you and love you!
Meanwhile, Cha Woo-min continues his trend through SBS's 'Treasure Island,' which is reigning on Friday and Saturday nights. The 5th episode of 'Treasure Island,' in which he appears, will air tonight (7th) at 9:50 p.m.
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