‘KPop Demon Hunters’ star Arden Cho grateful to Cha Eun-woo for duet before enlistment

Korean American actor Arden Cho, who voices the lead character Rumi in the Netflix animated film “KPop Demon Hunters,” expressed thanks for the warm response from fans and K-pop idols, including actor and singer Cha Eun-woo.

In a recent interview during her visit to Korea, Cho shared how much she enjoyed reading comments like “Rumi really came to Korea to guard the gate of souls,” referencing the film’s storyline.

“That one made me laugh the most,” she said with a smile. “Maybe it’s because I’ve been doing so many challenges with idols lately.”

Cho, born in 1985, debuted in 2006 and is known for her performances in series like “Teen Wolf” and “Chicago Med.” She rose to global prominence through the Netflix drama “Partner Track” and is now receiving praise for her voice acting as Rumi, leader of the demon-fighting K-pop girl group Huntrix.

Among the many celebrities who showed love for the film, Cha Eun-woo stood out. “A close dongsaeng (younger friend) of mine filmed a dance cover with me before heading off to the military,” Cho said, referring to Cha.

“He texted me saying, ‘Noona (older female friend), I watched the movie and it was so good.’ I thanked him and then suggested, ‘Do you want to do a cover together if you have time?’

“It was very casual at first, but he really gave it his all, and I’m truly grateful,” Cho said, referring to a video of their duet performance of “Free,” a song from the film.

Cha enlisted in the army’s military band on Monday and is expected to complete his service in January 2027.

On the day of his enlistment, Cho posted a message on her social media: “My little brother is off to the military. Sending you all my love. Stay healthy, I’ll always be cheering you on. See you in Hollywood when you’re back.”

She added that she’s especially proud of how diligently he worked up until the last moment.

The actress also expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception she’s received while visiting Korea. “It’s been amazing. Everyone I meet greets me like they’ve known me forever,” she said. “What’s funny is these young, flawless K-pop idols — they tell me they’ve watched my earlier work even before their debut. That really surprises me.”

From Hollywood to Korea

Two years ago, Cho spoke passionately in an interview with this outlet about her desire to work in Korean productions. That passion remains.

“Back then, I was eager to join any Korean project. Now, I believe the right timing will come,” she said. “I’ve watched nearly every Korean drama and movie out there. There are so many great stories being told.”

Her Korean has noticeably improved since her last visit, a development she credits to her friends. “I owe it all to them,” she said. “They’re always correcting my spelling and grammar in texts, but they do it kindly and with so much patience. I’m grateful to be surrounded by people who truly understand and support me.”

While Cho expected “KPop Demon Hunters” to appeal to K-pop fans, she was stunned by how far its reach extended.

“Even people who aren’t into K-pop at all are loving the movie, and that makes me so happy,” she said. “In the U.S., everyone keeps saying, ‘I’ve got to visit Korea — it looks amazing.’ Even my white friends’ daughters are copying Rumi’s hairstyle and asking their moms to make gimbap (rice rolls). Isn’t that wild?”

With her magnetic performance as Rumi and her growing involvement in Korean content, Cho continues to bridge cultures, not only as an actress, but also as an ambassador for Korean storytelling on the global stage.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.