ITZY member Ryujin is officially stepping onto the big screen. Her debut film “Night on Earth” (Korean title: 지상의 밤) — co-starring Park Yoo-rim and Kim Dan recently wrapped filming in October, signaling the start of a new chapter for the K-pop idol turned actress.
A Fantasy Drama Rooted in Real Emotions
Adapted from the short story by author Lim Sun-woo, “Night on Earth” unfolds in a near-future society thrown into chaos by the sudden appearance of mutant jellyfish. The story centers on Soo, a young recluse hiding in a bathtub to escape life, who encounters new people at an illegal clinic named “Manbok Pension.” Through these unlikely connections, he rediscovers the meaning of life amid despair.
The film blends fantasy imagination with a lyrical coming-of-age narrative, offering both surreal visuals and deeply human storytelling.
Award-Winning Project and Rising Creative Talent
The project first gained attention at the 26th Jeonju International Film Festival, where it won the BH Entertainment Award through the Jeonju Cinema Project: Next Edition program — a platform spotlighting next-generation filmmakers. Following the win, production quickly went into motion.
Director Jung Soo-hyun, known for his creative background as both filmmaker and actor, shared:
“I wanted to portray how young people who feel isolated and lost can find warmth and connection again, even in a collapsing world. I hope audiences rediscover the quiet beauty of human life through this story.”
TVING’s Park So-yeon, who directed the hit series “Pyramid Game,” joined as creative director to enhance the project’s narrative and visual depth.
Ryujin’s Cinematic Transformation
Ryujin takes on the role of Kang, a loyal yet warm-hearted employee at Manbok Pension. Known for her sharp charisma and modern style as a K-pop performer, Ryujin is expected to reveal a completely new side — portraying a tomboyish but emotionally layered character caught between survival and empathy.
This marks her first major film role, following her growing reputation for natural screen presence in ITZY’s music videos and variety shows.
A New Step for Ryujin and K-Idol Actors
With “Night on Earth,” Ryujin joins a growing wave of idols transitioning into meaningful acting careers. Her performance is already drawing anticipation from both fans and film insiders for its emotional depth and maturity.
“Night on Earth” is currently in post-production and will announce its release schedule soon.