Idol vs. Model: Whether You Call Him 'Ren' Or 'Choi MinGi', He Is Synonymous With 'Model'
Welcome to the forty-sixth article of Kpopmap's weekly series "Idol vs. Model". This week's model-like idol is Choi MinGi (aka Ren)!
Kay Sesoko, Kpopmap Editor 4 min to read ·
Published : Jul 22, 2022
OhBoy! Magazine
Welcome to the forty-sixth article of Kpopmap's weekly series "Idol vs. Model"!
This series will explore some idols with so much modeling potential that people who see them for the first time might confuse them with models instead of K-Pop idols.
Check out the rest of our "Idol vs. Model" articles here!
Readers voted for Choi MinGi (also known as Ren) in our weekly poll to be featured this week.
Before starting this week's series, you can vote for who you want to see featured in next week's article. If you would like to see a different idol (not mentioned in the poll) featured in the series, please leave their name in the comments and we will add them to the vote over time.
Who would you like to see in the next "Idol vs. Model" article?
~ Jul 25, 2022
f(x)'s Krystal
0.3%
NCT's DoYoung
0.5%
ENHYPEN's Ni-Ki
1%
BLACKPINK's Jennie
1%
OH MY GIRL's YooA
1.5%
GOT7's Jackson Wang
1.8%
Hwang MinHyun
24.6%
IVE's WonYoung
69.4%
Important notice: the vote only decides who will be covered in the next article. Everyone in the poll will be covered in the series eventually. Suggestions will also be gradually added each week.
Back to this week's feature!
Singles
Note: For the remainder of this article we will refer to him as Choi MinGi.
Choi MinGi is famous as a former member of the internationally-loved boy group NU'EST and as a soloist. He is known for his unique personality and his vocals which are, simply put, a force to be reckoned with. He is also multi-talented with authentic acting skills, too.
Today, let's take a look at his model potential.
Firstly, let's just pause for a moment and take some time to appreciate his beautiful facial proportions and features. His dimples accent his pure visuals, making him an even more fitting model for cosmetics lines.
OhBoy! Magazine
OhBoy! Magazine
Choi MinGi in one word? Model.
In other words? Ethereal. Elegant. Visually blessed.
Choi MinGi's Instagram
He has been known to be the object of mesmerized gazes from not just his fans but from other idols, as well.
Renowned idols such as BTOB's EunKwang, GOT7's BamBam, and many more have commented about how beautiful they think Choi MinGi is. In fact, he was many of the "Produce 101 Season 2" members' top visual pick.
It's hard for anyone who meets Choi MinGi not to be absolutely taken by his visuals.
Some of Choi MinGi's idol stylings have even earned him fantasy character status.
In some of his conceptual styling, we have had the pleasure to witness the manhwa fantasy character Choi MinGi. It would be a treat to see him play a character in a fantastical drama or film, to see even more of this visual bliss.
Choi MinGi's Instagram
PLEDIS Entertainment
Choi MinGi is also well-known for his androgynous/gender-bending looks. He has a deep interest in nail art and fashion, making him a fashion designer's dream to work with.
Hedwig Musical / Choi MinGi's Instagram
Lastly, let's appreciate this photo of the sun being Choi MinGi's personal halo.
Choi MinGi's Instagram
If you knew nothing about K-Pop, Choi MinGi (Ren) would definitely seem like a model at first glance. Do you agree?
Don't forget to check out all previous articles of the Idol vs. Model series, you can find them directly from this collective list:
From surprise comeback announcements to thrilling drama trailers, here are the top news of the 3rd week of May 2023.
Michael Albert, Kpopmap Editor 10 min to read ·
Published : May 19, 2023
· Updated : Jan 26, 2024
KBS / SM Entertainment / Netflix / SALT ENTERTAINMENT / JTBC
Hello and welcome to another edition of our weekly news recap article "Top News This Week". With this themed article, we curate for our global readers all the breaking and top news about K-Pop idols and K-Drama actors during the cause of the week. Ranging from comebacks to ads and campaigns, military enlistment, music show wins, drama news, teasers, trailers, pictorials, agency releases, and so much more. This themed article shares a long list of happenings in the K-Pop and K-Drama world in other to keep global fans briefed and up to date on the activities of their favorite stars.
In the 3rd week of May, there have duly been interesting news and developments surrounding many of our favorite actors and idols. From exciting new releases to drama teasers, and jaw-dropping pictorials, like the gush of the wind, the news cycle was super fast-paced this week.
Did you miss anything? Well, here are the top news of the 3rd week of May 2023.
This week, Big Planet Made Entertainment shared that the idol is gearing up for the release of his solo debut album. The exciting news has duly drawn much appreciation from fans who are eagerly anticipating more development on this.
3. SECRET NUMBER to make a comeback with a new digital single
Vine Entertainment
The famous girl group will be releasing their 6th digital single "DOXA" on the 24th of May.
4. P1Harmony is set to make a comeback with the release of their 6th mini album in June
The 4th generation boy group treated fans to some exciting news as through a trailer, they confirmed their comeback with their 6th mini album "HARMONY: ALL IN" which will be released on the 8th of June.
5. ENHYPEN shares the tracklist and preview of the upcoming album "DARK BLOOD"
BELIFT LAB
"DARK BLOOD" serves as the group's 4th mini album and will be released on the 22nd of May.
6. MONSTA X's I.M confirms the release of his new EP and opens official solo channels
This week, there is new development around I.M's solo activities as he opened new official channels and shared a poster of his upcoming album "OVERDRIVE".
7. fromis_9 to make their comeback in June with the release of their 1st full album
The idol group confirmed their comeback through a video of their album scheduler. The album titled "Unlock My World" will be released on the 5th of June 2o23.
8. N.Flying to release new digital single 'Once in a BLUE MOON'
FNC Entertainment
In celebration of their 8th-year debut anniversary, the band will be releasing a new digital single on the 20th of May. Congratulations to N.Flying and N.Fia.
9. U-KISS set to make a comeback in celebration of their 15th year anniversary
Tango Music
This week Tango Music shared a statement saying that the idol group will be making a comeback as 6 for their 15th year anniversary. In the release they said “U-Kiss has confirmed a comeback as a 6-member group, led by members SooHyun, Hoon, and KiSeop, to mark the 15th anniversary of their debut. As we decided after careful discussion, we plan to provide full support so that we can repay the fans who have waited for a long time."
Last month, along with fellow members HanSe and SuBin, the idol left his former agency IST Entertainment drawing various speculations about the idol group and their future activities. Fans can get some ease as it was shared that the idol has signed with a new agency New Way Company.
11. ATEEZ releases concept photos and trailer for their upcoming album
KQ Entertainment
The month of June is packed with amazing upcoming releases, as ATEEZ joins the list of idols group making a comeback in June. The famous 4th generation group are set to release their 8th mini album "The World: Outlaw" on the 16th of June.
12. VICTON's ByungChan announces 1st fan meeting in Japan
ByungChan's official Instagram
The popular acting-dol is set to greet his Japanese fans through his first solo fan meeting titled "PICNIC - Always With You" which will be held on the 1st of July 2023. See here for more information.
13. NCT's TaeYong shares scheduler and concept cuts of his upcoming solo debut album "SHALALA"
SM Entertainment
SM Entertainment
SM Entertainment
The anticipation for the 5th of June builds rapidly as thanks to this update, fans can begin the countdown to the solo debut of TaeYong.
14. MONSTA X celebrates their 8th-year debut anniversary
HyungWon's official instagram
The famous group marked their 8th year debut anniversary this week, drawing tons of congratulatory messages and pledges of continuous support from fans. Congratulations MONSTA X and MONBEBEs.
The famous idol showed off his handsome good looks and stunning model-like poses in these amazing pictures for the fashion and lifestyle magazine. See more shots here.
16. THE NEW SIX celebrates their 1 year debut anniversary
THE NEW SIX's official Instagram
THE NEW SIX's official Instagram
Congratulations to the members of TNX and their global fans as the group marks their 1 year debut anniversary. Here is to many more celebrations in the future.
The famous idol looks stunning in these pictures for the fashion and lifestyle magazine. Click here for more pictures and to read a snippet from the feature.
18. MONSTA X's JooHoney shares more concept photos and music video teaser ahead of his solo debut
Starship Entertainment
Starship Entertainment
The famous idol is set to greet fans with his 1st solo album "LIGHTS" on the 22nd of May.
19. ONEWE celebrates their 4th year debut anniversary
RBW Entertainment
The popular boy band celebrated their 4th year debut anniversary this week. We wish them a hearty congratulations and many more celebrations.
20. KARD shares concept photos highlight medley of their upcoming 6th mini album "ICKY"
DSP Media
KARD are gearing up for the release of their 6th mini album by releasing various concept teasers and the highlight medley of the album. It is set to drop on the 23rd of May 2023. Click here to see more pictures.
21. Stray Kids continue to share more teaser videos of their upcoming album "5-STAR"
The 4th generation group are set to make a comeback on the 2nd of June 2023 with the release of their album "5-STAR".
K-DRAMANEWS
1. tvN releases new teaser for its upcoming drama "See You In My 19th Life"
The webtoon-based drama stars famous actors Shin HaeSun and Ahn BoHyun and will begin airing on the 17th of June. Fans are duly excited about the drama as it marks the comeback of the famous actress who hasn't starred in a drama since "Mr.Queen" in 2020.
2. MBC releases new teaser for its upcoming drama "NUMBERS"
Projecting the thrilling and hectic lives of accountants in a firm, the drama stars INFINITE's Kim MyungSoo (L), Choi JinHyuk, and YeonWoo and is set to start airing in June.
3. Wavve releases new trailer for upcoming high teen thriller drama "Bitch X Rich"
Following its teasers and concept photos, the upcoming high teen drama starring Lee EunSaem, Red Velvet's YeRi, Lee JongHyuk, and Yoo JungHoo has been drawing a great level of excitement amongst K-Drama fans. The drama is set to premiere on the 31st of May.
4. Kim SeonHo is set to make his movie debut with "The Childe"
The famous actor is set to make his movie debut with the action thriller movie which will be released on the 21st of June. The trailer has drawn much appreciation and excitement from his global fans who have been waiting to see him on their screens for a while now. The movie also stars Go Ara, Kang TaeJoo, and Kim KangWoo.
5. JTBC shares official poster and new trailer for upcoming rom-com drama "King The Land"
6. KBS shares teaser poster and trailer for upcoming drama "Heartbeat"
KBS
The rom-com drama starring 2PM's Ok TaecYeon and Won JiAn tells the story of a vampire who desires to become human. It will begin airing on the 26th of June.
7. Netflix shares new posters and stills from upcoming action thriller drama "Bloodhounds"
8. ENA unveils posters for its upcoming family thriller drama "Happiness Battle"
ENA
The drama will be starring Lee Ei, Jin SeoYeon, Cha YerYun, Park HyoJoo, and Woo JungWon and it tells the thrilling lives of Mothers when one of them mysteriously dies. It will begin airing on the 31st of May.
9. Rising actor Kang YouSeok lends his handsome visuals to 1st Look
1st Look
1st Look
The "Black Knight" star graces the spreads of the lifestyle magazine. See here for more pictures.
12 Actors Who Would Be Perfect In The K-Drama Adaptation Of Fantasy Romance Webtoon "I Thought My Time Was Up!"
Find out about the webtoon "I Thought My Time Was Up!" and the actors who would be perfect in a K-Drama adaptation of the same.
Ishani Sarkar, Kpopmap Editor 10 min to read ·
Published : Nov 2, 2023
· Updated : Jan 9, 2024
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon / RoWoon's IG / Jellyfish Entertainment
Korean cultural exports, such as K-Pop, K-Dramas, and K-Films, have taken center stage in the global entertainment industry. Joining this prestigious lineup are Korean webtoons, or manhwa, steadily gaining international acclaim. While Korean webtoons have enjoyed considerable popularity for quite a while now, most impressively in the last half-decade, their appeal has reached a far more diverse audience in the present Hallyu landscape, thanks to the growing adaptation of webtoons into K-Dramas. With the constant crossover of fans from one media to another, it is common for fans of either to anticipate K-Drama adaptations of their favorite webtoons. One such webtoon that has fans imagining a dream cast for a potential live-action K-Drama is the fantasy romance webtoon "I Thought My Time Was Up!". Keep reading to know more about this webtoon, and vote for your dream cast!
Minor Spoilers Ahead!
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" Webtoon Introduction
A Classic Rom-Com With A Touch Of Magic Perfect For The Hopeless Romantic
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" is a fantasy romance webtoon by Essie and Hyeyong, adapted from the original web novel by Ari Choi. It started serialization on Naver Webtoon in October of 2022 and is currently ongoing, with new episodes released every Tuesday. A total of 57 (including 5 Fast Pass) episodes have been released so far, 52 of which you can read for free on Naver Webtoon in Korean. You can also read the webtoon in English here. At the time of writing, 31 chapters (+12 Fast Pass) have been officially translated, and new episodes are released every Saturday.
The webtoon "I Thought My Time Was Up!" is set in the year 732 in the fictional Harushan Empire. It tells the story of a promising young woman named Lariette Blanche, who is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Despite being born with extraordinary magical talent and a destiny that could shape an entire century, she has spent her life in the shadow of her jealous younger brother and indifferent parents, who granted her no education or support. Now, she faces an arranged marriage to an elderly but wealthy marquess, who not only objectifies her but treats her like a return on an investment. However, with only three months to live, she embarks on a journey to fulfill her bucket list and finally live life on her own terms.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
This bucket list ranges from buying cake for her family maid Anne to breaking off her engagement, becoming financially independent, casually dating a handsome man, albeit only for three months, and traveling to the West. The first three are managed at once, and the possibility of the fourth comes knocking at her door when she happens upon Asrahan Kandel - a Duke of the highest status, the Empire's Sharpest Blade, the War Lord. However, the Duke bears a curse that has instilled fear throughout the nation. His curse manifests through his skin, which continually breaks and decays, and his presence is shrouded in the pervasive scent of death. What catches Lariette's eye, however, is his godly visuals - from his towering physique to his dazzling ocean eyes and even the low tone of his voice.
As Fate would have it, Asrahan is searching for a purification mage to lift his curse, and our heroine is happy to be at his service. Despite being rejected as a potential love interest at first glance, Lariette is determined to steal his heart, starting with an employer-employee contract this time around.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
One of the key strengths of "I Thought My Time Was Up!" is that it skillfully utilizes its medieval backdrop to immerse readers in a world infused with magic, royalty, priests, curses, and other mystical elements, offering an expertly crafted exploration of these fantastical aspects. The writing seamlessly blends a modern sensibility with its historical setting, creating a relatable and enduring tale. Similarly, the author's unique sense of humor, though finely attuned to the universe she creates, manages to strike a delightful balance, such that it feels both of its time and surprisingly contemporary. Moreover, thanks to the way the narrative is structured, it is thoroughly enjoyable to shift between perspectives and be privy to our character's feelings in real time rather than having to wait for belated gratification.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
The pacing does an excellent job of quick exposition, allowing enough time for romance to bloom gently between Lariette and Asrahan. At the same time, new plot points are steadily introduced, such as our ethereal yet mysterious second male lead, DoHa, to keep readers on their toes and stir up our protagonists' lives, unraveling new shades of their characters.
Most importantly, the very first panel of the webtoon makes the unexpected revelation that Lariette was misdiagnosed and, hence, is not dying, which leaves her accountable for the decisions she made in reckless abandon. The webtoon then recalls Lariette's journey as she fulfills her bucket list until her abrupt departure leaves Asrahan irrevocably in love and hopelessly hurt.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
If the writing is the heart of the story, the art is the soul. The art style of the "I Thought My Time Was Up!" webtoon, which is a defining merit of the work, captivates with its stunning beauty, featuring striking character designs and impeccable fashion in each chapter. As a matter of fact, fans of the original web novel were overjoyed that the artist in charge of illustration, Essie, was also going to work on the webtoon.
Owing to such unique factors, the webtoon draws you into its world in no time, inviting you to explore it along with our protagonist, and before you know it, you will have spent the night binge-reading the chapters.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" Webtoon Characters & K-Drama Dream Cast
At the time of writing, "I Thought My Time Was Up!" is not set for a K-Drama adaptation. However, Kpopmap is predicting that it would certainly make for a fantastic K-Drama, which many fans are hoping for, given its huge international and domestic popularity. "I Thought My Time Was Up!" is highly rated for both the Korean and English versions (9.97 and 9.71 out of 10, respectively), which proves its appeal to a global audience. It is only a matter of time before it is hopefully picked up for production.
Until then, Kpopmap has created a virtual dream cast for a K-Drama adaptation of "I Thought My Time Was Up!". We took into consideration the significant traits of each character - both physical and otherwise - to create this dream cast. You will find a poll after each character's description, where you can vote for the actor who you think would best suit the character. So, have fun with the polls, and let us know your thoughts!
Lariette Blanche
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
Lariette Blanche is a powerful and talented witch who can wield her powers deftly, even without proper education. She grows up in a borderline abusive household, with her parents wanting to sell her off and her brother downright loathing her very existence out of jealousy. Nevertheless, she is a charming and spirited young woman, best compared with a ray of sunshine. She is optimistic, even in the face of a terrifying diagnosis, and is determined to live her life as she pleases.
When Lariette meets the sculpted and dreamy Asrahan, she is all of us at once, swooning over his otherworldly beauty. Assuming that this divine handsomeness would naturally translate to ample dating experience, she decides to date him for three months, hoping they won't get too attached.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
However, Lariette's charisma, kindness, and genuine sincerity are disarming and help Asrahan lift the mental and emotional burden of his curse while she does her best to purify it physically. In other words, it is Lariette's compassion and warmth that heal Asrahan's inner wounds while her magic heals his curse.
Lariette is affectionate and shows it through all the love languages possible. From physical touch and quality time, which adorably fluster Asrahan, to words of affirmation and acts of service that encourage him to be his true self and prioritize his own needs, Lariette has a whole lot of love to give, and she doesn't hesitate to express it.
In terms of appearance, Lariette has long pink hair and purple eyes. She is 22 years old.
Before we unveil our dream cast, we had some fun with AI to envision what Lariette Blanche might look like in real life. Please note that this is purely for entertainment and does not represent Kpopmap's official interpretation of these characters, nor does it affect our dream cast. Check it out below!
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon / SeaArt.AI
What do you think of this version of Lariette Blanche? Tell us in the comments section down below!
As for our dream cast for a K-Drama adaptation of "I Thought My Time Was Up!", we think Chae SooBin, Mun KaYoung, Kim SeJeong, and Go YounJung would be incredibly well-suited for this role. Vote for your pick in the poll below!
Who Should Play Lariette Blanche?
※You can vote multiple times without sign in.
Chae SooBin
Mun KaYoung
Kim SeJeong
Go YounJung
Please do not refresh any more. Press the "VOTE" button below.
Asrahan Kandel
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
Asrahan is one of the most powerful Dukes in the Harushan Empire. He is an invincible warrior who brought victory in a war that was almost lost. However, he is called a monster and treated with contempt, fear, and disgust because of his curse. This leads Asrahan to isolate himself and hide away from people. He is perceived as a violent beast who doesn't hesitate to slay anyone who stands in his way. He radiates a dark and intimidating aura.
When Asrahan first met Lariette, and she asked him out, he was visibly taken aback at her bright and vibrant energy, especially when faced with him. Rather than being afraid, she was interested in getting to know him better and even dating him! Not being used to such an advance, he shrugged it off as a joke, but their interaction clearly affected him.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
When they met again, and Lariette remained unchanged, he couldn't help but be drawn to her. Despite first holding on to her because of her powerful purification magic, he inevitably falls in love with her. She accepts him as he is and gives him the adoration and love that he hasn't felt since he was a child. It is no wonder that he would give up his life for her.
As the two spend more time together, Asrahan's endearingly playful, shy, and possessive side comes to light. In fact, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that blushing Asrahan has fandom of its own! Over the course of the webtoon, we see that Asrahan is willing to move heaven and earth for Lariette and doesn't hold back from proving it to her. No one dares touch his Lariette.
As for Asrahan's appearance, he has the most gorgeous blue eyes, is tall, has a sharp facial structure, and is well-built. He is 27 years old.
Check out how AI envisioned a live-action version of Asrahan below!
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon / SeaArt.AI
Now, for a virtual casting of Asrahan Kandel in a K-Drama adaptation of "I Thought Time Was Up!", we think Byeon WooSeok, Jang KiYong, Hwang MinHyun, and RoWoon would be amazing choices. Vote for your pick in the poll below!
Who Should Play Asrahan Kandel?
※You can vote multiple times without sign in.
Byeon WooSeok
Jang KiYong
Hwang MinHyun
RoWoon
Please do not refresh any more. Press the "VOTE" button below.
DoHa
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
The second male lead and one of the most popular characters in the "I Thought My Time Was Up!" webtoon is DoHa. He disguises himself as a lowly priest when he visits Duke Kandel's mansion to heal Lariette, but it is soon revealed that he is actually Reverend Mikhail Dohaverion, the High Priest of the Temple of Alteon, set to be the next Pope. He moved up the ranks faster than others because of his exceptional divine power.
When DoHa meets Lariette for the first time, she notices the scar on his forehead at once and proceeds to heal it, unwittingly revealing that she has the same amount of mana as him. After all, his scar cannot be healed by anyone with less mana than him, which means that Lariette has to be quite a powerful mage. So, he intends to seduce her and make her his exclusive healer mage.
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon
DoHa is known to be cold and indifferent. However, his curiosity and fondness for Lariette only grow with time. As Lariette steadily yet unknowingly makes a place for herself in his heart, he comes to want her more and more. DoHa is mysterious and elusive but possessive over Lariette. He doesn't hesitate to get competitive with Asrahan, either. Needless to say, this one is going to be a hard 2nd lead syndrome for new readers.
DoHa has long white hair that is either let loose or tied up in a ponytail. He has beautiful golden eyes.
Check out how AI envisioned a live-action version of DoHa below!
"I Thought My Time Was Up!" by Essie, Hyeyong, Ari Choi on Naver Webtoon / SeaArt.AI
We think Song Kang, Jang DongYoon, SHINee's MinHo, and Ren (Choi MinGi) would be excellent candidates for playing the otherworldly DoHa in a K-Drama adaptation of "I Thought My Time Was Up!". Vote for your pick in the poll below!
Who Should Play DoHa?
※You can vote multiple times without sign in.
Song Kang
Jang DongYoon
SHINee's MinHo
Ren (Choi MinGi)
Please do not refresh any more. Press the "VOTE" button below.
Note: The aim of the vote is for Kpopmap readers to share their opinion about their preference for the cast. It is not affecting the cast of the production team.
What did you think of our dream cast for an imaginary K-Drama adaptation of the webtoon "I Thought My Time Was Up!"? Tell us in the comments section down below!
K-Pop Idols & Korean Artists Concerts & Fanmeetings In Korea (September 2023)
We've compiled K-Pop concerts and fanmeeting taking place in Korea this coming September! Check it out!
Eunice, Kpopmap Editor 2 min to read ·
Published : Aug 18, 2023
· Updated : Sep 12, 2023
BLACKPINK Official
Discover an exhilarating K-Pop and Korean artists' event lineup this coming September in Korea. Experience sensational performances, engaging fanmeetings, and the magic of live music. September presents abundant opportunities to connect with idols and enjoy the dynamic music scene, so stay informed about hot events, venues, and dates with our monthly guide.
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