Name: Kim Min-gue. AKA the sexiest-cutest-loveliest dimples in the K-drama industry.
Kim Min-gue also spelled Kim Min-kyu (yes, like SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu and idol-actor Kim Min-kyu, who participated in Produce X 101), is a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry who has been gaining attention since his breakthrough role in the popular drama Business Proposal.
Despite being in the business for decades now and being part of television series Queen: Love and War (2019-20), Backstreet Rookie (2020), and Snowdrop (2021-22), it was his role as Cha Sung-hoon in the hit romance drama Business Proposal that changed the course of his career. Kim Min-gue’s kissing scene in Business Proposal was a memorable moment in the drama that left a lasting impression on viewers. In the scene, his character shares a passionate kiss with the female lead, played by actress Seol In-ah. As they kiss, he slowly removes his glasses, revealing his captivating eyes and adding to the intensity of the moment. The scene was praised for its emotional depth and chemistry between the two actors, with many fans expressing their admiration for Kim Min-gue’s performance. It was a pivotal moment – not only in the drama – that helped to solidify his rising status as the leading man in Korean entertainment.
Min-gue is now playing the double role of Pontifex Rembrary and Woo Yeon-woo, the main rapper and sub-vocalist of the K-pop boy group Wild Animal in the tvN and Studio Dragon K-drama The Heavenly Idol.
Panorama.it spoke with him in an exclusive interview.
Nice to meet you. Can you please introduce yourself and your character?
Hello. I am actor Kim Min-gue, playing the Highly Priest ‘Rembrary’ and ‘Woo Yeon-woo’ of WildAnimal in The Heavenly Idol.
So… You are finally a K-pop idol. How does it feel living on screen a life that could have been yours?
I have realized, learned, and experienced various things once again. It was challenging, and I realized the difficulties K-pop idols may go about through this character.
How did you get to prepare for the role? Did you contact some of your old trainee friends to get some advice?
I tried to approach the character in a simple way. “What would it be like for the Highly Priest to become an idol?” is what I processed. I also received pieces of advice from nearby acquaintances.
Which was the most difficult part of filming The Heavenly Idol?
The genre changes instantaneously from time to time like a roller coaster. It is full-on comedy once and extremely serious the next… It was difficult to find the right amount of emotions in between.
Do you have any fun behind the scene to share with us?
I have added many fun ad-libs on set. Our director told me that my ad-libs, especially the ones with Sa Gam-Jae made it into the show, so I have great expectations for the upcoming episodes.
There is a particular scene in episode two. It’s when Yeon-Woo gifts Kim Dal a signed album saying he’s rooting for her and takes away the booze from her bag. It’s very impactful and meaningful, especially for those who are in fandom and feel saved by their idols. How was filming it, and how do you feel thinking that someone could feel safe just by looking at you acting?
This was a heavy scene. Because many people may have experienced this, it took me time to think about how I can express this scene in the best way possible. The fact that doing something I love can become a strength for others is such a grateful and joyous thing. I feel thankful and feel a responsibility for my work. I will return all the support through various projects.
You have an outstanding career. Business Proposal took you to another level of fame internationally. How do you handle your private life and your public life? Something has changed?
No, there are no changes. My private life and public life are similar because I stay home most of the time. (he laughs)
What is the main difference between the “Kim Min-gue actor” and the Kim Min-gue in his private life?
Kim Min-gue as an actor challenges himself a lot to play various characters, but I personally do not like challenges. I don’t try new things that much. In fact, I get scared of trying a new food or even coffee. So, I always drink and eat my usual, and I believe that is what the difference is between actor Kim Min-gue and private Kim Min-gue.
Can we talk about your kids, aka your cats? How does it feel to be a cat dad?
To be exact, I am their brother, and my mother is their mom. (he laughs) As you may know without further explanation, they are my happiness and strength!
You are a rom-com king. But is there a genre you would like to explore next?
I’d like to try playing the villain in an action film or a psychopathic character in profound works.
Can you send a message to the Italian and European public?
Thank you so much for showing love and support even over a long distance. My acting career is all thanks to you. I hope there will be a chance for us to meet and greet!