South Korean actor Yim Siwan wants to return to playing characters from modest backgrounds after portraying a wealthy corporate heir in his latest K-drama, Love in Disguise. The actor also expressed interest in exploring more romantic comedies, although he has not officially announced his next project.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Variety India on October 20, 2026, Siwan discussed his experience playing Yoon Yi Jun, a third-generation conglomerate heir accused of murder, and explained what he hopes to explore next.
Yim Siwan Wants to Play Someone From a Humble Background
After portraying a privileged businessman in Love in Disguise, Siwan appears ready to explore a very different social background.
“I want to go back to playing a not-so-rich character, someone who comes from a humble background,” he said.
The actor explained that playing a wealthy heir was an unusual experience compared with many of his previous roles.
However, Siwan isn’t necessarily moving away from romantic comedies. He enjoyed portraying Yi Jun and hopes the experience might eventually lead to another romance-focused project.
For him, the more important consideration is whether a character possesses genuine kindness and emotional depth, regardless of the genre.
Why Love in Disguise Was Different for Yim Siwan
Premiering on October 19, Love in Disguise follows Yoon Yi Jun, a wealthy heir who becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation.
Seol In Ah plays Kang Jae Hee, a former special forces officer turned detective who disguises herself as a man to investigate Yi Jun while working as his personal secretary.
The series combines romance, comedy and suspense, with Siwan portraying a character whose privileged lifestyle hides considerable emotional vulnerability.
During an earlier production press conference, the actor revealed that Yi Jun’s extravagant wardrobe was intentionally designed to reflect his loneliness.
The wealthier and more polished the character appeared, the more his outward confidence concealed his emotional struggles.
That contrast gives the role a different dimension from a conventional arrogant K-drama heir.
Siwan’s Career Shows His Range Beyond Romantic Comedies
Siwan began his entertainment career as a member of K-pop group ZE before establishing himself as an actor.
His breakthrough television performance came in Misaeng: Incomplete Life (2014), where he portrayed an inexperienced office worker navigating an unforgiving corporate environment.
He later appeared in Run On, Summer Strike, Boyhood and Netflix’s Squid Game, demonstrating his ability to move between romance, workplace drama and psychological tension.
Interestingly, returning to a financially struggling character would reconnect him with the grounded storytelling that helped establish his reputation.
What’s Next for Yim Siwan?
For now, Siwan remains focused on Love in Disguise, which consists of 12 episodes and airs on tvN in South Korea, with international streaming available through Prime Video in supported markets.
The drama also stars Kim Jung Hyun and Yeonwoo.
Although Siwan has expressed a preference for playing someone from a humble background, no specific project, character or filming schedule has been confirmed.
His remarks therefore reflect his creative interests rather than an official casting announcement.
