Setting aside figure skating for now to pursue acting? China takes note of Cha Jun-hwan’s sudden suspension of activities… “Expansion into the popular culture sector expected”

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Attention is turning to the future path of Cha Jun-hwan (25), the flagship star of men’s figure skating in Korea, after he decided to temporarily halt his competitive career.

China’s Sina.com highlighted on the 13th (Korean time) that “Cha Jun-hwan, the leading figure in Korean men’s figure skating, has announced a temporary suspension of his competitive activities.”

It further analyzed, “Cha Jun-hwan is expected to step down from his status as a professional competitive athlete for the time being and expand his scope of activity into the popular culture sector.”

On the 12th, Cha Jun-hwan announced via his social media that he would not compete in events as a national team member this season.

He stated, “After the end of last season, I repeatedly thought about and deliberated on my future direction,” adding, “After long and deep consideration, I have decided not to compete in events under the status of a Korean national team athlete this season.”

He further revealed, “My contract with Seoul City Hall has also been terminated after sufficient consultation with the Seoul City side,” expressing, “I sincerely thank the people of Seoul City and the officials at Seoul City Hall who believed in me and provided unwavering support all along.”

He did not disclose specific details regarding his future plans.

Cha Jun-hwan added, “While doing my best in my current role, I will carefully consider what form I will take as I move forward,” stating, “I sincerely thank everyone who has always cheered for me and sent their strength. I want to show you an even better performance in the future.”

Cha Jun-hwan had originally been scheduled to participate in the 2026–2027 International Skating Union (ISU) Grand Prix series.

He received invitations to the Cup of China, the third event of the Grand Prix, and the NHK Trophy, the sixth event. However, following his announcement of suspending competitive activities for this season, the possibility of him competing in both events appears slim.

Following the sudden announcement of his activity suspension, there is also a mood of close attention to Cha Jun-hwan’s next move within China.

Cha Jun-hwan already had acting experience in his childhood. He entered the entertainment industry as a child actor, appearing in works such as MBC’s 2006 drama “Miracle,” “Every Night at Night,” and “The Return of Iljimae.”

Subsequently, he focused on his career as a figure skater, effectively halting his entertainment activities.

However, the atmosphere changed again this year. In April, Cha Jun-hwan signed an exclusive contract with entertainment agency Fantagio, opening up possibilities for activities outside of sports.

In September, he also showcased his acting skills after a long time by appearing as the male lead in the music video for singer Roy Kim’s “Sparkle.”

For this reason, some are speculating that his decision to suspend competitive activities may be aimed at focusing more on future acting or entertainment endeavors.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original