Picture this: You’re deep in your latest drama binge, scrolling through Korean drama updates, and suddenly—bam!—you realize that one actor keeps popping up everywhere. Enter Cha Woo Min, the rising star who’s currently stealing the show in not one, not two, but three different dramas at the same time.
If you’re wondering how this fresh-faced actor is managing to juggle all these roles (and making us swoon while doing it), you’re not alone. Fans have been buzzing about his ability to switch between characters effortlessly, and his latest interview with Allure Korea just gave us some juicy behind-the-scenes details.
From audition struggles to preparing for his most challenging role yet, here’s everything you need to know about Cha Woo Min’s breakout year.
The Audition That Changed Everything
Actors go through a ton of auditions, but for Cha Woo Min, one in particular left a huge impression. While chatting with Allure Korea, he spilled the tea on how he landed his roles in Study Group, Melo Movie, and Buried Hearts—all of which, by some twist of fate, ended up airing at the same time.
“I didn’t expect all three dramas to be released together,” he admitted. (Honestly, neither did we. What kind of scheduling sorcery is this?)
But what really stood out was his audition for Study Group. He originally wanted to play Kim Se Hyun, but the director had other plans.
“During my second audition, I only got the script for Pi Han Wool, but the other candidates had lines for both Pi Han Wool and Kim Se Hyun,” he revealed.
Of course, being the determined actor he is, Cha Woo Min tried to convince the director to let him audition for Se Hyun instead. But the response? A firm, “You are Han Wool.” No room for negotiation.
Did he argue? Yep. Did it work? Not at all. But hey, it turned out to be a great casting choice, because fans love his performance in Study Group!
How Cha Woo Min Prepares for His Roles (Hint: Anime Plays a Big Part!)
Playing three different characters means triple the prep work, and Cha Woo Min takes it seriously. Instead of just memorizing scripts, he goes deep into character-building—sometimes in ways you wouldn’t expect.
“I love looking for references to help me prepare. The process of creating something new is the most fun part for me,” he shared.
And get this—his biggest source of inspiration? Anime.
“Sometimes, anime gives me ideas in ways I don’t expect, because the characters are always so extreme,” he explained.
Now, this makes total sense. Think about it—anime characters have such distinct personalities, and their emotions are often heightened. No wonder he’s able to bring that extra intensity to his performances!
So, if you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, Why does his acting feel so expressive?, well, now you know—Cha Woo Min is lowkey channeling his inner anime protagonist.
The Hardest Role of Them All
Each of his characters brings something different to the table. In Study Group, he plays a tough fighter. In Buried Hearts, his role is much darker. But the one that really pushed him outside his comfort zone? Woo Jeong Hu in Melo Movie.
Unlike his usual bad-boy villain type, Jeong Hu is the total opposite—he’s Kim Mu Bee’s (Park Bo Young) childhood friend, super loyal, a little goofy, and constantly getting bullied for being weak.
Cha Woo Min described Jeong Hu as a “Siberian Husky”—he might look fierce, but he’s actually a soft-hearted, playful guy at his core.
“Jeong Hu only has eyes for Mu Bee. But I’m naturally a quiet person, while Jeong Hu is super energetic. So that part felt a little awkward for me at first,” he confessed.
To get into character, he had to hype himself up before filming. His trick? Blasting upbeat music in his car while waiting for his scenes. And his go-to pump-up song? 2NE1’s “Fire.”
Honestly, same. If we ever need a confidence boost, 2NE1’s bangers are always the answer.
Cha Woo Min’s Takeover Is Just Getting Started
Three dramas in one year is already insane, but something tells us this is just the beginning for Cha Woo Min. His ability to seamlessly jump between characters, his dedication to preparation, and his anime-inspired acting techniques (which we’re totally obsessed with) are setting him up for major success in K-dramaland.
So, now it’s your turn—which of his dramas have you watched? Are you more into his tough fighter role in Study Group, his mysterious aura in Buried Hearts, or are you loving his softer, playful side in Melo Movie?
Let’s talk in the comments—I need to know which Cha Woo Min character is stealing your heart right now! 💖✨
If you’re not watching at least one of his dramas right now… what are you even doing?! Cha Woo Min is seriously one to watch, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.
Okay, now tell me—who else is obsessed with his acting? Let’s fangirl together! 😆🔥