Rising Actors with K-pop Idol-Worthy Popularity: Kim Ji-Won and Byun Woo-seok

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Kim Ji-Won, Byun Woo-Seok and Kim Soo-Hyun fame is compared to K-pop idol's fame.

Actress Kim Ji-won, celebrated for her role in tvN’s “Queen of Tears” with record-breaking ratings, is set to hold her first solo fan meeting in 14 years since her debut. However, the announcement of the event’s date and venue triggered mixed reactions from fans.

Despite the excitement over Kim Ji-won’s fan meeting, fans expressed discontent upon learning that the event will take place at a small live hall accommodating approximately 400 attendees. Criticisms emerged, with fans questioning the choice of such a limited venue for an actress of her stature. Suggestions were made to switch to a larger venue or arrange additional sessions to accommodate more supporters.

Kim Ji-won announces her first solo fan meeting after 14 years (Credits: Soompi)

Simultaneously, actor Kim Soo-Hyun is gearing up for his “2024 KIM SOO HYUN ASIA TOUR in JAPAN ‘EYES ON YOU'” fan meeting on June 22nd and 23rd, marking his return to fan meetings after a decade. His previous fan meetings drew massive crowds across Asia, with venues accommodating over 12,000 attendees in Japan alone. Fans are eagerly anticipating his upcoming tour, expecting similar enthusiasm from across the region.

Meanwhile, Byun Woo-Seok, gaining acclaim for his role in tvN’s “Lovely Runner,” is experiencing a surge in popularity reminiscent of K-pop idol fandom. Recognized for his role as Ryu Sun-jae, the vocalist of the idol band Eclipse in the drama, Byun Woo-seok has become synonymous with his character among fans.

Actor Kim Soo-Hyun to hold Fan meeting (Credits: Kbizoom)

During the 25th Jeonju International Film Festival, fans enthusiastically cheered for Byun Woo-Seok, prompting organizers to adapt to the overwhelming response by changing event details and logistics multiple times. This fervent support reflects a growing trend where actors garner a level of devotion and enthusiasm previously associated with K-pop idols.

The immense popularity and fan culture surrounding actors like Kim Ji-won and Byun Woo-Seok demonstrate an evolution in Korean entertainment, blurring the lines between traditional acting and the fervor of idol fandom.

Byun Woo-Seok (Credits: Pinterest)

As demand for their events continues to soar, fans eagerly anticipate larger gatherings and opportunities to connect with their favorite stars.

Verified since 2020 Senior Content Writer

Disha Paul is a Howrah-based Senior Content Writer at OtakuKart with a profound love for K-pop and K-drama. With over 650 published articles, she is one of OtakuKart's most prolific K-content voices, crafting insightful recaps, covering idol dating rumors, and curating drama recommendations for global Hallyu fans.

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