IZ*ONE Chaeyeon Makes Successful Acting Debut in Fresh Romance Drama

IZ*ONE Chaeyeon: Courtesy of Instagram

Former IZ*ONE member Lee Chaeyeon has successfully transitioned from K-pop idol to actress, capturing hearts with her acting debut in the romantic drama "Fresh Romance." The drama features Chaeyeon alongside twin idols Xion and Dongmyeong in this music-healing romantic comedy, marking a significant milestone in her post-group career.

The 25-year-old singer-dancer, who gained fame as the final member of the popular project group IZ*ONE, has proven her versatility extends beyond the music stage. In "Fresh Romance," Chaeyeon portrays Yoo Chae-rin, a character who presents a perfect life on social media while navigating the complexities of genuine relationships behind the scenes.

From K-pop Stage to Acting Screen

Chaeyeon's acting debut comes at a pivotal moment in her career, following her successful solo music endeavors since IZ*ONE's disbandment in 2021. She made her solo debut with the release of her first EP "Hush Rush" on October 12, 2022, establishing herself as a capable individual artist before venturing into acting.

The actress recently made headlines for her candid appearance on variety show "Knowing Bros," where she openly discussed personal challenges including hair loss concerns that led to a hair transplant procedure. Her transparency about such topics has endeared her to fans who appreciate her authentic approach to public life.

Musical Contributions Beyond Acting

Demonstrating her multifaceted talents, Chaeyeon contributed to the "Fresh Romance" soundtrack, performing both the opening and closing theme songs. Her involvement in the OST adds another layer to her artistic contribution to the production, showcasing the musical skills that first brought her to prominence.

The drama's soundtrack features over 20 original songs, creating a music-rich viewing experience that aligns perfectly with Chaeyeon's background as a performer. Her participation in the OST represents her first foray into drama music, marking another career milestone.

Building an Acting Portfolio

Prior to "Fresh Romance," Chaeyeon gained acting experience through her role in the KBS educational drama "Let's Dance," where she played the lead character Cheong-a. This terrestrial drama debut on April 18, 2025, focused on youth disability awareness education, demonstrating her commitment to meaningful projects.

Industry observers note that Chaeyeon's transition from idol to actress follows a growing trend among K-pop stars seeking to diversify their entertainment careers. Her approach appears methodical, building experience through smaller productions before taking on more prominent roles.

In her statement about the acting experience, Chaeyeon expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that while she initially didn't consider acting her forte, the positive experience on set has opened new possibilities for her future career direction. The success of "Fresh Romance" positions her well for potential future acting opportunities in the competitive Korean entertainment industry.

As former IZ*ONE members continue to establish individual careers across various entertainment sectors, Chaeyeon's successful acting debut adds another success story to the group's post-disbandment narrative. Her ability to seamlessly transition between music and acting demonstrates the versatility that has become increasingly valuable in today's entertainment landscape.