They might be even more charming as actors: their offstage contrast has us excited to see what these idols do next

These K-pop idols light up the stage every day, and they’re about to show fans an unexpected new side of themselves on screen. ITZY’s Ryujin, SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan, i-dle’s Miyeon, and THE BOYZ’s Q (New Hyun-soo) all have new projects in the works, giving fans around the world even more to look forward to beyond following their favorite idols: adding new shows to their watchlists.

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ITZY’s Ryujin: “Night on the Ground”

News of ITZY’s Shin Ryujin making her acting debut immediately sparked discussion on social media. This isn’t a cameo: the screenwriter and director personally invited her to make her debut as an actress and lead the independent film “Night on the Ground,” directed by Jung Soo-hyun. The film has reportedly finished shooting, with Ryujin playing Kang, an employee at Manbok Inn. The role will show a restrained, lived-in side unlike her crisp onstage persona as a rapper.

SEVENTEEN’s Seungkwan: “Wednesday Thursday Friday”

SEVENTEEN’s Boo Seungkwan is also set to make his first foray into acting, having confirmed his participation in the new romantic K-drama “Wednesday Thursday Friday.” Seungkwan recently took part in a private script reading, while his agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, confirmed that details are still being coordinated. What role will Seungkwan take on in this restaurant-set story filled with literary and romantic atmosphere? It’s something to look forward to.

THE BOYZ’s Q: “My Idol, My Debut”

THE BOYZ member Q takes on the leading role in the upcoming time-travel youth drama “My Idol, My Debut.” He plays male lead Han Jae-ha, a key member of the fictional boy group Boy to the Moon. The drama follows a devoted fan who travels back 8 years to prevent a tragedy, becoming an idol trainee herself in an attempt to change fate.

i-dle’s Miyeon: “Cheongdam International High School 2”

i-dle’s Cho Miyeon has quietly built up a solid body of acting work. She previously starred in the web dramas “Replay: The Moment When It Starts Again” and “Delivery,” earning praise for her innocent image and natural acting. Along with announcing her lead role in the sequel to the popular series “Cheongdam International High School 2,” where she’ll transform into a commanding chaebol queen, Miyeon also has another new project in the works.

Watching these familiar idols step outside their comfort zones, put on costumes, and appear before the public in a whole new light is perhaps one of the most appealing parts of being a fan. After shedding the glamorous, commanding outfits they wear for music-show performances, they reveal a more nuanced, everyday side in front of the camera. Keep an eye on these talented idols’ transformations and see whose new screen persona speaks to you most.

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