K-pop idol and actor Rowoon is making a bold move in his career with his first-ever Japanese movie role in “Lastman -FIRST LOVE-.”
The film, set to premiere in Japan on December 24, 2025, is the highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the 2023 TBS drama “Lastman -Zenmei no Susakan-.”
Known for its gripping plot and emotional storytelling, the original series followed a visually impaired FBI investigator and a noble detective as they tackled complex cases — and now, the film version promises to bring that world to life on a grander scale.
In this new adaptation, Rowoon plays Clyde Yoon, an FBI investigator who matches wits and strength with the story’s protagonist, Minami Hiromi (portrayed by veteran Japanese actor Fukuyama Masaharu).
The movie also stars Oizumi Yo, who reprises his role as detective Godo Shintaro, further connecting the film to its hit drama origins.
A Role Designed for Rowoon’s Charisma
Producer Higashinaka praised Rowoon’s casting, stating,
“Yoon is a strong character who can rival Minami. We believed that only Rowoon, with his acting skills, overwhelming charm, and presence, could portray this role.”
Rowoon (Credit: YouTube)
This high compliment reflects both Rowoon’s reputation as a versatile actor and the growing admiration he has earned in Japan’s entertainment industry.
Rowoon’s character, Clyde Yoon, is expected to bring an intriguing international dimension to the story, symbolizing strength, intelligence, and ambition.
As an FBI investigator, his role will add tension and complexity to the crime-solving narrative, expanding the original drama’s scope and global appeal.
Rowoon Shares His Thoughts on the Challenge
In an official statement, Rowoon expressed his excitement and nervousness about stepping into a new cultural and linguistic environment.
“Appearing in a Japanese production was a new challenge for me,” he shared. “But I wanted to try acting in a different language and cultural setting. Yoon is a confident character full of ambition and passion for success. I hope everyone watches closely to see how he evolves throughout this story.”
This marks a milestone in Rowoon’s career — not just as his first Japanese film role, but also as a symbol of his continued artistic growth.
Known for his natural screen presence and emotional range, Rowoon has consistently impressed audiences with his ability to portray layered characters, and fans are eager to see how he adapts to this new genre and language.
Building Popularity Across Japan
Rowoon’s fanbase in Japan has grown steadily over the past few years, thanks to his roles in several popular Korean dramas that have enjoyed success on Japanese streaming platforms.
Series like “She Would Never Know,” “More Than Friends,” and “This Love Is Unavoidable” have all earned him widespread recognition and admiration among Japanese viewers.
Additionally, his Disney+ original series “Takryu” performed exceptionally well in Japan, ranking among the platform’s Top 10 titles shortly after release.
This success not only solidified his popularity as an actor but also demonstrated his international appeal beyond the K-pop scene.
Strong Fan Connection and Ongoing Events
Rowoon’s connection with his Japanese fans extends beyond the screen. In May 2025, he held a fan meeting at the Nippon Budokan, one of Japan’s most prestigious venues — a major milestone for any foreign artist.
The event was a huge success, filled with heartfelt performances, games, and intimate moments that strengthened his bond with fans.
To continue this connection, Rowoon is scheduled to hold two more fan meetings at the Tokyo Garden Theater on October 7, under the title “Extraordinary Day.”
These meetings will allow him to interact directly with fans, celebrate his upcoming movie, and share personal updates before his military enlistment later this month.
The events are expected to attract thousands of attendees, proving the strong loyalty and admiration he enjoys in Japan.
Military Enlistment and Future Plans
Originally, Rowoon’s enlistment in South Korea’s mandatory military service was set for July 2025. However, after undergoing a re-examination, his enlistment was postponed to October 27, 2025.
This means that “Lastman -FIRST LOVE-” will likely serve as his final acting project before enlistment, making it even more meaningful for fans.
The movie’s release in December will therefore not only highlight his global debut in the Japanese film scene but also stand as a heartfelt farewell gift to fans before his hiatus.
His agency and the production team have expressed excitement about the project’s potential impact, given Rowoon’s immense popularity and cross-cultural appeal.
A Rising Star with Global Ambitions
With this project, Rowoon joins the growing list of Korean actors expanding their careers internationally, bridging the entertainment worlds of Korea and Japan.
His choice to take on a Japanese-language role demonstrates his willingness to challenge himself and step beyond familiar territory.
The fact that “Lastman -FIRST LOVE-” will be released in Japanese theaters during the Christmas season adds to its potential to become one of the most-watched films of the year.
For fans, this film represents more than just another acting credit — it symbolizes Rowoon’s growth as a global artist.
His ability to balance music, acting, and fan engagement showcases his dedication and versatility. Whether performing on stage or captivating viewers on screen, Rowoon continues to prove that his talent transcends borders.
Anticipation Builds for “Lastman -FIRST LOVE-”
As the December 24 premiere approaches, excitement is mounting both in Japan and abroad.
Fans are already discussing the potential chemistry between Rowoon and the Japanese cast, as well as the emotional depth the movie promises to deliver.
With a stellar lineup, a compelling story, and a global star at its center, “Lastman -FIRST LOVE-” is poised to become one of the most talked-about cross-cultural film releases of the year.
For Rowoon, it marks not only the start of a new international chapter but also a proud moment before he fulfills his national duty.
Hwang Min-Hyun was born on August 9, 1995, in Busan, South Korea. From a young age, Min-Hyun showed a passion for the performing arts, which led to his early scouting by Pledis Entertainment. After intensive training for nearly two years, he debuted in March 2012 as the lead vocalist and visual of the boy group NU’EST.
The group debuted with their single “Face” and made appearances in fashion events, alongside music promotions. While NU’EST initially found some success, commercial popularity waned in the following years, which motivated Min-Hyun and his fellow members to explore new paths.
Before debuting, Min-Hyun had appeared in the music video for Orange Caramel’s “Shanghai Romance” and featured in various promotional content alongside Pledis labelmates, building early exposure before cementing his place in NU’EST.
Rise to Fame with Produce 101 and Wanna One
In 2017, Min-Hyun and other NU’EST members joined the survival reality show “Produce 101 Season 2,” which gave him a platform to showcase his talents to a broader audience.
Known for his leadership qualities, catchy vocals, and stage presence, Min-Hyun earned nicknames such as “CEO Hwang.” His fancams during the show gained massive views, highlighting his burgeoning popularity.
Finishing ninth place out of a highly competitive contestant pool, Min-Hyun became a member of Wanna One, a temporary but highly successful project group.
This opportunity substantially boosted his fame and financial prospects, as Wanna One rapidly rose to be one of the top K-pop groups with substantial album sales, endorsements, and sold-out concerts. Min-Hyun’s participation in Wanna One from 2017 until its disbandment in 2019 marked a major turning point in his career.
Transition to Acting and Solo Activities
Following Wanna One’s disbandment, Min-Hyun returned to NU’EST and continued group activities until their disbandment in 2022. Around this time, he began taking on acting roles, expanding his presence beyond music.
His acting debut came with the Japanese film “Their Distance” in 2016, but his intense focus on acting started after Wanna One, with television dramas like “Live On” (2020) and the widely popular “Alchemy of Souls” (2022).
Hwang Min-Hyun (Credit: NBC)
His role as Seo Yul in “Alchemy of Souls” garnered international attention, increasing his fan base and elevating his status as a multitalented entertainer. Subsequent projects, including “My Lovely Liar” (2023) and the anticipated web series “Study Group” (2025), continue to build his career in acting.
Min-Hyun also cultivates brand endorsements, modeling, and TV show appearances, diversifying his income sources steadily while developing his artistry.
Net Worth
As of early 2025, Hwang Min-Hyun’s net worth is estimated at approximately $3 million. This valuation includes his earnings from music, acting, endorsements, and modeling contracts. Though not among the ultra-rich celebrities, Min-Hyun has built a notable financial foundation through his multi-industry involvement.
His income streams consist of:
- Earnings from NU’EST and Wanna One album sales and performances
- Solo music activities, including singles and concerts
- Acting contracts for dramas and films, where lead roles come with competitive salaries
- Brand endorsements and modeling, which contribute significantly, given his public appeal
- Participation in variety shows, events, and hosting duties
Recent estimates suggest that his monthly income from solo endeavors alone reaches several thousand dollars, indicative of his steady career growth. The public recognition gained from hit dramas such as “Alchemy of Souls” boosts his market value, often leading to lucrative endorsement deals and increased acting fees.
Despite early setbacks with NU’EST’s fluctuating popularity, Min-Hyun has steadily increased his financial worth by tapping into his diverse talents.
His transition to acting also opens broader revenue possibilities that extend beyond music. With consistent projects lined up, it is likely his net worth will continue to rise steadily in the coming years.
Outlook
Hwang Min-Hyun is a flourishing Korean artist whose career spans nearly a decade, marked by resilience and versatility. Starting as an idol, rising through the ranks of competitive reality TV, and finally emerging as a recognized actor, his journey reflects both dedication and adaptability.
His evolving portfolio ensures a balanced and diversified career trajectory, with a net worth that reflects his various roles in entertainment. As K-dramas continue to gain international audiences, Min-Hyun’s substantial acting presence may well translate into greater financial success and broader global recognition.
For fans and industry watchers alike, Hwang Min-Hyun exemplifies a talented star with a promising future, balancing artistry with solid business acumen. As he continues to explore new creative outlets, his net worth is poised to grow in tandem with his expanding influence.
This comprehensive look at Hwang Min-Hyun details his journey from a young trainee to a multifaceted entertainer with an estimated net worth that mirrors his hard work and rising fame.
His combination of music and acting careers secures his place as a notable figure in the Korean entertainment industry today and for years to come.
