Park Jinyoung, known as Jinyoung from GOT7, is considering a lead role in the upcoming JTBC drama Shining, alongside actress Kim Min Ju. The series is on love story,which spark excitement among fans.
Drama Details and Plot
Shining is a romantic drama centered on a man and woman whose lives revolve around each other. Their deep bond acts as a guiding light through life’s challenges. The story follows their journey after separating at age 19 and reuniting at 30, exploring themes of love and reconnection. The drama is written by Lee Sook Yeon, known for On the Way to the Airport and A Piece of Your Mind. It is directed by Kim Yoon Jin, who led Our Beloved Summer and Tell Me That You Love Me.
On April 29, 2025, reports confirmed Jinyoung received an offer to play the male lead in Shining. His agency, BH Entertainment, stated:
It is a project he received an offer for and is reviewing positively.
Similarly, Kim Min Ju, a former IZ*ONE member and rising actress, is in talks to take the female lead role. Her agency, Management SOOP, confirmed she is reviewing the offer. The drama was previously offered to actors Chae Jong Hyeop and Rowoon, but both declined.
Jinyoung’s Acting Journey
Jinyoung, born September 22, 1994, debuted as an actor in 2012 with Dream High 2, playing Jung Ui Bong. He initially used the stage name Jr. due to sharing a name with JYP Entertainment’s founder but switched to Jinyoung in 2016. His first lead role came in 2019 with He Is Psychometric as Lee Ahn, a young man with psychometric abilities. He earned praise for his emotional depth.
His notable dramas include:
- The Devil Judge (2021) as Kim Ga On, a rookie judge. Fans lauded his chemistry with Ji Sung.
- Yumi’s Cells (2021-2022) as Yoo Babi, a charming co-worker. His role in season two was a fan favorite.
- When My Love Blooms (2020) as young Han Jae Hyun, showcasing his ability in emotional scenes.
- The Witch (2025) as a kind-hearted student in a mystery romance, which premiered February 15, 2025.
Jinyoung also starred in the film A Christmas Carol (2022), winning the Best New Actor award at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards. He completed his mandatory military service from May 8, 2023, to November 7, 2024.
Fans on X shared their excitement:
Jinyoung as an idol is very talented, he sings well, good at dancing, he also has good entertainment skills. As an actor, Jinyoung is very, very impressive, each of his role gives a deep impression.
—your_sweetchaosJinyoung is a very talented actor as evidenced by his work, he deserves a recognition!
—Mae
Kim Min Ju’s Rising Career
Kim Min Ju, born February 5, 2001, gained fame as a member of IZ*ONE, debuting in 2018. After the group disbanded in 2021, she transitioned to acting. Her first major role was in *Tempted* (2018) as young Choi Soo Ji. She recently starred in Undercover High School (2024) and Connection (2024), earning praise for her natural performances.
X users expressed enthusiasm for her potential pairing with Jinyoung:
Kim Minju is Jinyoung’s new leading lady… First saw her in Undercover Highschool…
—madzandosay
Production and Expectations
Shining is generating buzz due to its experienced creative team and promising cast. Kim Yoon Jin’s direction is known for its emotional depth, as seen in Our Beloved Summer. Lee Sook Yeon’s scripts often explore complex relationships, raising expectations for a moving story.
The drama’s plot, focusing on a love that endures separation and time, has fans eager to see Jinyoung and Kim Min Ju’s chemistry. Jinyoung’s ability to portray layered characters, as seen in The Devil Judge and Yumi’s Cells, makes him a strong fit for the male lead. Kim Min Ju’s growing reputation as an actress adds to the anticipation.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Posts on X highlight the excitement surrounding the casting news:
It’s the drama that got rejected by Rowoon and Jonghyeop… BUT TURNS OUT IT’LL BE STARRING JINYOUNG OMGGG
—woozoroJinyoung has been cast as the male lead for the upcoming JTBC drama “Shining”, alongside the female lead Kim Minju.
—OT7Ahga
Fans are thrilled about Jinyoung’s return to acting post-military service. His recent role in The Witch and upcoming Our Unwritten Seoul with Park Bo Young, set to premiere May 24, 2025, show his demand as an actor.
As of April 29, 2025, both Jinyoung and Kim Min Ju are reviewing their offers for Shining. No official confirmation has been announced, but their agencies’ positive responses suggest a high likelihood of acceptance. The drama has not yet set a premiere date, but production is expected to begin soon, given the casting developments.
CREDITS: Soompi
