Kim Jung Hoon has chosen his next drama. The former member of the singing duo UN will play the part of Do Jin Hoo, a man who has it all, in the new drama "Her Legend."
Having played Prince Yul, the heir who felt he was entitled to a title in "Princess Hours," Kim may find it easy to portray the chaebol heir of a fashion corporation. The story also involves two women from different backgrounds who switch fates.
When asked about the role, he said, "I thought the character was very much like me when I first read the script. I have wanted to try something like this."
He did not elaborate on how the character was like him or what exactly it was he wanted to try.
One of the last roles he tried was the cheating boyfriend Kim Sung Soo in the comedy, "I Need Romance." His character was casual about cheating and he did not repent. The story about three single women reminded many of "Sex and The City," but his choice of character was criticized as too unlikable.
Kim, who originally studied dentistry, debuted as a member of the duo UN. After six successful years, the duo broke up and Kim decided to focus on acting. Before appearing in "Princess Hours," he had parts in the dramas "Orange" and "Witch Yoo Hee." In 2012 he starred as Frank Jr. in the musical "Catch Me If You Can."
Although he chose to focus on acting for a while, the singer says he never left music. Last year he released his first Korean album in seven years. His music is really popular in Japan, where he has taken on emcee duties for the music show, "Gaon Monthly."
"I've been acting in Korea and singing in Japan," said Kim after his album was released. "Then suddenly I wanted to sing in Korea too, so I released an album."
Since he says he can't rap, he made an album covering songs he always liked. And it was watching the drama "Reply 1997" that inspired his song selection.
"Since it's very similar to my memories of the 1990s, I empathized greatly with the show and the characters," said Kim. "So I wanted to express my nostalgia for that time through music."
With his baby face, the 33-year-old singer barely looks old enough to be nostalgic about the 90s. After a musical trip back to the 90s, he is looking forward to his new drama.
"It will be an opportunity for viewers to see a whole new side of me," he said.