Choosing the Perfect K-pop Idol for Book Characters: Hueningkai, Jeon Jiwoo, and Namjoon
In the world of K-pop, talent and charisma shine through, but it's not just about the stars themselves. Fans often wonder which idols could best fit certain book characters. Three notable choices are Hueningkai (TXT), Jeon Jiwoo (KARD), and Namjoon (BTS), each bringing unique qualities that align with different literary characters.
Which K-pop Idol for Paul in These Violent Delights
SUJI's Perspective: The book These Violent Delights by Micah Neveremver tells the story of Paul, a talented but insecure college freshman in the early 1970s in Pittsburgh. Paul idolizes his friend Julian, but their relationship is tumultuous and ultimately destructive.
When it comes to casting Hueningkai as Paul, he is a great choice because Paul does not exude a confident vibe. In fact, not having a confident persona allows him to act lost in the crowd when he is not, making for a very complex and believable character. Hueningkai’s soft-spoken nature and his ability to captivate without being overly assertive can mirror Paul’s quiet yet intense emotions and insecurities. This ability to not take center stage, despite having a presence, is crucial for the role of Paul.
Jeon Jiwoo as Samantha in The Bunnies
BUNNY's Perspective: The book The Bunnies by Mona Awad follows Samantha, an outlier in her MFA program at New England's Warren University. She's repelled by her peers and ultimately invited into a group of psychopaths known as the Bunnies. Jeon Jiwoo, the charismatic and confident idol from KARD, steals the show and makes for a compelling main character.
Jeon Jiwoo's bold and captivating personality can easily channel Samantha's confidence and strength. She has a magnetic presence that can intimidate and captivate others, much like Sam in the book. The contrast between her bold demeanor and the surrounding fragile and naive characters can make her the standout character, similar to how Samantha is the outsider who becomes the center of attention. Although a twist is to be expected, Jeon Jiwoo's ability to pull off a complex and layered character would make her a perfect fit for Samantha.
Namjoon’s Character Fit for Alex in The Ninth House
SUJI’s Perspective: In Leigh Bardugo's novel The Ninth House, Galaxy "Alex" Stern is a unique Yale freshman with a complicated background. She becomes involved in monitoring the activities of Yale's secret societies, making her a fascinating and complex protagonist. Namjoon (BTS), a multi-dimensional idol renowned for his gentle and refined demeanor, can embody Alex's sophisticated yet troubled nature.
Namjoon's balanced and well-filtered persona, along with his ability to portray both strength and vulnerability, fits well with Alex's character. He is known for his gentlemanly charm, yet his inner resilience and determination resonate with Alex's journey. The contrast between Namjoon's perfection and Alex's rough, survival-driven background can create a powerful narrative dynamic, similar to how Alex must navigate the dangerous and secretive world of college life.
Final Thoughts on K-pop Idols as Book Characters
Though there are many talented K-pop idols, the ones mentioned here, Hueningkai, Jeon Jiwoo, and Namjoon, bring unique and complex qualities that align perfectly with the literary characters from the books mentioned. Each idol's persona can add depth and authenticity to these characters, making them stand out in the reader's imagination. Whether it's through their quiet charm, magnetic confidence, or balanced duality, they offer the perfect blend of charisma and character that readers can easily visualize and relate to.