'Manager Kim' Son Na-eun sheds 'acting controversy' label, scores a massive hit → Hye-ri and Hani, the 2.5-generation center actresses from idol groups, face their acting tests [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

'Manager Kim,' a ratings blockbuster, has achieved record-breaking viewership. Who will follow in the footsteps of Son Na-eun (32)? Following Apink's Son Na-eun, Girl's Day's Hye-ri (32, real name Lee Hye-ri) and EXID's Hani (34, real name Ahn Hee-yeon), all '2.5-generation' actress-idols have announced their ambitious entry into the television arena.

Son Na-eun is currently delivering a standout performance as Jeong Sang-a, an assistant manager at Saengsaeng Savings Bank, in SBS's Friday-Saturday drama 'Manager Kim,' which has reached a peak viewership of 21.6%. Portraying a sharp-witted MZ generation office worker, she clashes with the rigid 'daughter-obsessed uncle' Manager Kim (played by So Ji-sub), creating dynamic senior-junior chemistry that adds to the show's appeal.

In particular, the third episode aired on the 3rd delivered a gripping twist that firmly established her presence. It was revealed that Jeong Sang-a, initially thought to be merely a bank colleague of Manager Kim, was actually an 'undercover agent' monitoring him. Son Na-eun showcased intense action sequences, revealing a fresh and unexpected side of her acting range.

Notably, Son Na-eun has finally seized the opportunity to shake off the long-standing controversy surrounding her acting abilities, capturing viewers' full attention. By flawlessly embodying Jeong Sang-a as if it were a custom-made role, she has sparked a wave of reevaluation regarding her acting skills.

Coincidentally, leading idol-group actresses representing the 2.5-generation are now facing acting challenges in succession, promising intriguing viewing experiences. Like Son Na-eun, Hye-ri and Hani, both former 'center' members of their groups, are set to make comebacks with new dramas in July. Hye-ri debuted as a member of Girl's Day in 2010, Son Na-eun joined Apink in 2011, and Hani launched her career with EXID in 2012.

Just as Son Na-eun made her debut action challenge with 'Manager Kim,' Hye-ri and Hani's new projects are expected to become significant milestones in their filmographies for various reasons.

First, Hye-ri returns with ENA's new Monday-Tuesday drama 'Dream for You,' carrying the burden of proving her acting prowess after a decade since her iconic role as Sung Deok-sun in tvN's 'Reply 1988.' Viewers are eager to see whether she can surpass that beloved character by unleashing the potential of her accumulated acting experience.

'Dream for You' is anticipated to showcase Hye-ri's talents through a universal story of growth and redemption, along with a romance centered on rekindling first love. In the drama, she plays Ju Yi-jae, a livelihood-focused reporter who has lost sight of her dreams. She will don school uniforms once again, portraying a youthful romance with Huang In-yup as Woo Soobin, while also rewriting an unfinished film and an uncompleted love story spanning 15 years, promising to deliver excitement and resonance. The first episode of 'Dream for You' will air at 10 p.m. on the 13th.

In contrast, Hani, in her seventh year as an actress, takes on her most significant project to date: a leading role in KBS's first weekend drama of the year, placing her squarely under public scrutiny. With lingering negative perceptions from her past relationship with 'fiancé Lee Kwon-soo,' her comeback has drawn unprecedented attention. The key question remains whether Hani can erase personal life controversies and approach viewers as actress Ahn Hee-yeon.

Regarding her role in 'Love is Coming,' Hani remarked, "Weekend dramas are watched by entire families, so I felt both excited and highly nervous, with a strong sense of responsibility."

In the drama, Hani portrays Han Gyu-rim, an employee at a side dish shop whose true feelings—whether positive or negative—are openly expressed. After her once-wealthy family collapses, she takes on part-time jobs and manages household duties. She spends a dazzling year with Kim Mu-jin (played by Ha Seok-jin), whom fate brought into her life. However, believing that even a lover should not be made unhappy, she ends the relationship. Yet, when he reappears after eight years, she wavers. Hani is set to vividly depict Han Gyu-rim's life—someone who, despite hidden wounds and heavy responsibilities, learns to smile again—with her signature charm and high synchronization with the character.

Hani expressed deep empathy, stating, "Han Gyu-rim is a character whose life is not easy, but she doesn't turn toward hatred for the world. She has suffered greatly, endured much, and carried immense responsibility, yet she manages to survive, protect her loved ones, and learn to smile again. This aspect of her character left a lasting impression on me."

The first episode of 'Love is Coming' will be available to watch at 8 p.m. on the 25th.

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*This content was translated by AI.