INTERVIEW Dahyun aspires to deliver joy, comfort as actor
Actor Dahyun / Courtesy of Studio Take
Dahyun, best known as a vibrant member of the K-pop band TWICE, has taken a leap into the world of acting, making her debut in a recently released teem romance film, “You Are the Apple of My Eye.” Revealing her goal as an actor, she expressed her desire to bring joy and comfort to audiences, adding that she will continue to keep balancing acting and singing.
“I always like to watch dramas and movies and have received great energy from actors’ performances. Like these great actors I’ve watched, I would like to become an actor that can offer good energy, comfort and hope to others,” Dahyun told The Korea Times in an interview at a cafe in Seoul on Thursday.
The 26-year-old said “You Are the Apple of My Eye” marks a significant milestone in her career as she ventured beyond the stage and into the realm of cinema.
"It was a new challenge for me, and I was excited to explore a different side of myself," she said. "Stepping into the shoes of Seon-ah in the movie and bringing her to life was an incredible experience."
In this movie, a remake of the beloved 2012 Taiwanese film, Dahyun plays Seon-ah, a beautiful and intelligent high school student who captures the hearts of her classmates.
Set against the backdrop of Chuncheon, some 85 kilometers east of Seoul, during the summer of 2002, the film follows the innocent romance between Seon-ah and Jin-woo, played by Jinyoung, a former member of K-pop band B1A4.
Dahyun expressed that she had always been interested in acting but had not had the right opportunity until now. She felt a deep connection with the character of Seon-ah and was drawn to the film's nostalgic storyline. "I wanted to try something that could bring joy and nostalgia to the audience," she explained. "This film felt like the perfect opportunity."
Actors Dahyun, left, and Jinyoung in a scene from a teen romance film “You Are the Apple of My Eye” / Courtesy of Studio Take
The film portrays the sweet and sometimes painful journey of first love as Seon-ah and Jin-woo navigate their feelings amid the uncertainty of their future. Their relationship, initially sparked by a simple act of kindness, blossoms into a deep connection that blurs the lines between friendship and love.
Dahyun's portrayal of Seon-ah has been praised for its sincerity and charm, capturing the essence of youthful innocence and the complexities of first love.
"I wanted to portray Seon-ah as a relatable character, someone who embodies the purity and excitement of first love," Dahyun said. "I hope that audiences will be able to connect with her journey and relive their own memories of that special time."
To promote the film, Dahyun recently visited Indonesia with Jinyoung. There, she was deeply moved by the overwhelming welcome from fans and realized that she was making her acting debut.
“I had been to Indonesia for concerts or events, but this was my first time visiting as an actor. The fans' response was incredible. They welcomed me from the airport, and I received many letters containing their precious messages,” she said.
“After the screening, the audience turned on their smartphone flashlights and illuminated us. As the fans lit up the dark theater, I felt, 'I'm debuting as an actor’ and 'The movie I'm in is finally being released.' Meeting fans through this film was very meaningful to me and a precious experience.”
Looking ahead, Dahyun hopes to continue exploring her passion for acting, taking on diverse roles that challenge her.
“This film was my first step into acting, but I want to take on more roles and grow as an actress. I hope to portray various characters and emotions, connecting with audiences on a deeper level,” she said.