Compared to the Korean dramas your mother once watched — and still references till this very day — the current landscape of K-content exists the mainstream, with a constant stream of access and something new every day. Key players now make regular appearances on global stages and are part of the pop culture vernacular. What was the last memorable piece of media you consumed, and how long will it stay in your memory before it gets replaced with a newer, flashier production, a more shocking plot twist and a catchier hook? With the mass proliferation of K-content that brings accolades from winning Oscar awards to becoming the most-watched series on streaming sites, what does it take for actors and artists to remain in the public conscience, especially after their airtime is up?
As far as lead actors go, 26-year-old Lomon seems to be playing all the right cards — a role in a hit Netflix series, linking up with luxury brands and a legion of fans who are constantly engaged. But is that all it takes to create a lasting legacy in the ever-growing, ever-evolving Hallyu entertainment scene? In an industry saturated with talent, is standing out from his peers a priority for him? “While healthy competition is important, I try to stay focused on growing at my own pace. I work steadily to build on my strengths and address areas I can improve on,” Lomon shares. Rather than feeling anxious by comparing himself to others, he believes that staying true to his style. “What I try to focus on the most is staying balanced, constantly checking in with myself and making sure I don’t burn out.”
The entertainment industry, as the name suggests, is built on the idea of keeping audiences entertained, no matter the medium. Whether it is 40 minutes of screentime, glossy magazine spreads, press junkets or life-size cutouts, there is little insight towards what goes on behind the scenes to showcase the work actors put in to pursue their big break. “A lot of young actors, myself included, often feel this pressure to grow quickly. As time progresses, there’s this growing expectation to prove yourself and do better. I definitely had moments where I felt shaken by this feeling,” confesses Lomon. Rather than letting these feelings overwhelm his progression, he turned to veterans of the scene for advice. “Hearing from senior actors who would remind me to ‘trust your own pace’ was very comforting, as this meant I could move at my own pace — especially when I know I’ve been giving it my all, performance-wise.”
Set to play a soccer player who unexpectedly turns the mythical nine-tailed fox into a human in Human From Today, which is slated to air next year, Lomon teases a performance that is more vibrant and sincere — a delightful departure from his previous performances. “I was able to explore a wide range of emotions through this role, and I’m really excited for viewers to witness this growth.” Crediting his performance to a genuine chemistry with the cast on set, he professes an eager spirit to impress fans who have waited for his return. “As I’m not naturally great at soccer, I practised a lot to make up for what I lacked. My goal was to look and move like a soccer player, so I made sure I captured the nuances of my character well.”
Not a stranger to portraying roles in a fantasy setting — from surviving a zombie apocalypse, fighting criminals as a family with superpowers and being in love with a mythical creature — how does Lomon imbue his characters with a sense of realism for a believable performance? “I often find myself thinking about how to naturally blend the unreal with the real. No matter the genre, I believe there has to be sincerity and truth — because that’s what allows the audience to truly follow the character,” he explains. Character study becomes a fundamental part of his preparation, allowing him to envision himself and how he would navigate extreme situations. “By understanding the inner world of the character, I would constantly ask myself, ‘What if I were in this situation?’, lean in to those feelings and stay fully immersed — so it never feels fake or forced.” The same train of thought could be applied to his desire to play a villain next. “I think villains are often driven by a strong sense of purpose and even stronger desires, propelling the character forward. To uncover their motives and intentions feels incredibly fascinating to me — it’s an exciting challenge for any actor.”
Sincerity, perhaps, is also the key to resonating with a global audience hooked on K-content. When asked what makes Hallyu content endlessly alluring worldwide, despite not being a language or culture that is theirs, Lomon leads with gratitude. “I’m grateful for the seniors who have paved the way for K-content to be loved globally. Thanks to their efforts, we’re now able to stand on bigger stages and work in better environments.” Part of Lomon appeal is a palpable genuineness that runs through his onscreen performance. “What makes our content so special is the sincerity behind it. When a project is filled with genuine passion and heart, it has the power to resonate with people beyond language and cultural barriers.” As Lomon believes that acting has no borders, he welcomes opportunities outside of the Korean entertainment industry.
For an industry that seems to move at the speed of light, to move at your own pace is to trust the rhythm of your becoming. Lomon is not too fussed about being at the frontlines for the sake of being ahead of the curve — especially when it does not feel congruent to his artistic values, just like his taste in music. “I often find myself reminiscing while listening to idol songs from the 2010s, but Latin Pop makes running feel a lot more fun!” he shares. When he visits the convenience store, he sticks to a simple rotation of instant rice, smoked eggs and pho. “It’s a simple combo, but surprisingly filling and satisfying,” he quips. Simple and heartfelt are ongoing themes that connect him with his fans. “I’m truly grateful to all the fans who always wait for me and support me. I’ll keep working hard and do my best to show you an even better version of myself. Since Summer is here and the heat is getting intense — please take care, stay healthy and know that I love you always,” he signs off.
Photography Kim Heejune
Creative Direction & Styling Izwan Abdullah
Fashion Coordination Manfred Lu
On-set Styling Lee Jungju
Grooming Ara
Hair Eunji
Production Oh Seoyul / SY Production
Production Assistant Misha
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