ITZY’s Ryujin is officially stepping into the world of cinema! The K-pop idol will headline her first major film role in the upcoming sci-fi drama Night on Earth, a story set in a world thrown into chaos by the sudden appearance of mutant jellyfish.
The film follows Su, a young man hiding away from society in a bathtub, whose life begins to change after he meets a group of mysterious people at an underground clinic called Manbok Guesthouse.
A Story Born from an Award-Winning Short
The movie is based on a short story by Lim Sun Woo, which won the BH Entertainment Award at the 26th Jeonju International Film Festival. Its cinematic potential drew early attention, leading to a full feature adaptation soon after.
Ryujin’s Big Screen Transformation
Known for her charisma as part of ITZY, Ryujin now expands her artistry beyond the stage, taking on the role of Kang, the loyal aide to guesthouse owner Hee Jo. Described as “boyish yet warm-hearted,” Kang’s character gives Ryujin the chance to showcase a new side of her — blending toughness with tenderness in a way fans have never seen before.
An Ensemble Cast of Rising and Established Stars
The film also stars Park Yu Rim (Drive My Car, Ballerina) as Hee Jo, the quiet and introspective owner of the Manbok Guesthouse who anchors the story with emotional depth.
Kim Dan, best known for his role in The Winning Try, plays Su, the withdrawn young man teetering between life and death. His nuanced performance promises to explore themes of isolation, identity, and redemption.
Veteran actress Kim Gook Hee (Moving, Dark Nuns) joins as a middle-aged woman confronting her past and rediscovering herself, while Kim Si Ah (Miss Baek, Kill Boksoon) makes a special appearance as a rebellious young girl whose emotional complexity adds another layer to the narrative.
A New Chapter for Ryujin
With Night on Earth, Ryujin becomes the latest K-pop star to make the leap into film acting — and expectations are high. Her portrayal of Kang is said to carry both strength and vulnerability, offering a glimpse into the emotional range behind her cool, confident stage persona.
The film has wrapped up shooting and entered post-production, with a release date to be announced soon.
