Kim Jiwoong, a member of the popular boy group ZEROBASEONE, is expanding his acting portfolio with a special appearance in the upcoming JTBC romance drama, Surely Tomorrow
. The casting adds another layer to a busy period for the artist, as ZEROBASEONE navigates an extended promotional schedule and a shift in its group structure.
The drama, starring Park Seo Joon and Won Ji An, centers on a former couple, Lee Gyeong Do and Seo Ji Woo, whose relationship spanned two decades. They initially connected in their twenties, rekindled their romance at 28 and ultimately parted ways. Years later, their paths cross again under complicated circumstances: Gyeong Do as a journalist investigating an affair, and Ji Woo as the wife at the center of the scandal. is the scheduled premiere date for Surely Tomorrow
.
Jiwoong will portray the character of Oh Goon, described as a seemingly ordinary college student who possesses exceptional information-gathering skills. He will act alongside Lee El, who plays Seo Ji Yeon. This role marks a continued effort by Jiwoong to build his acting career, following his debut in the drama The Sweet Blood
and subsequent appearances in The Good Bad Mother
, Don’t Lie, Rahee
, Convenience Store
, and Pro, Teen
.
The timing of this announcement coincides with significant developments for ZEROBASEONE. Originally slated to conclude their project activities in , the group’s promotions have been extended to the end of . This extension includes plans for an encore concert and the release of new music. However, the group is also undergoing a restructuring, transitioning to a five-member system consisting of Sung Hanbin, Kim Jiwoong, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, and Park Gunwook.
The shift to a five-member configuration comes after a notice from WakeOne Entertainment, signaling a change in the group’s future activities. While the details surrounding the departure of other members haven’t been extensively publicized, the agency has indicated that the remaining five will pursue both group activities and individual endeavors.
Jiwoong’s commitment to both music and acting highlights a common trajectory for many K-pop idols, who often diversify their careers through acting roles, variety show appearances, and solo musical projects. This strategy allows artists to broaden their appeal, cultivate new fan bases, and maintain relevance in the highly competitive entertainment industry.
The casting of a popular idol like Kim Jiwoong in Surely Tomorrow
is also a strategic move for the drama itself. Idol appearances often generate significant buzz and attract a wider viewership, particularly among younger demographics. The drama is hoping to capitalize on Jiwoong’s existing fanbase to boost its initial ratings and social media engagement.
The extended promotional period for ZEROBASEONE, coupled with the group’s restructuring, suggests a careful calculation by WakeOne Entertainment to maximize the group’s impact before its eventual disbandment. The agency appears to be prioritizing opportunities for individual members to establish themselves in various fields, ensuring a continued presence in the entertainment landscape even after the group’s official activities conclude.
Kim Jiwoong’s role as Oh Goon in Surely Tomorrow
promises to be an intriguing addition to the drama’s narrative. His previous acting experiences suggest a willingness to take on diverse characters, and his portrayal of a skilled information gatherer could add a compelling dynamic to the unfolding romance and intrigue. Viewers will be watching to see how Jiwoong balances his idol career with his growing ambitions as an actor.
