Former NMIXX member Jini is making her acting debut in the dystopian neon-noir film "Boy," set to premiere in South Korean theaters on Jan. 14, 2026.
The film has already garnered international recognition ahead of its domestic release. "Boy" was officially invited to the 35th Fancine Fantastic Film Festival of the University of Málaga in Spain, where it held its world premiere in November 2025. The festival invitation marked a significant achievement for the production, drawing a warm reception from Spanish audiences.
Set in the near-future fictional city of Pogu, "Boy" is described as a neon-noir film centered around events at Texas Hot Springs, a dystopia for abandoned people. The story depicts how a single instance of love destroys all order in a world dominated by control and violence, portrayed through a sensible and aesthetic visual style.
Jini plays Jane, a new resident of Texas Hot Springs who becomes a central figure driving the plot's tension. Her character enters the dangerous location searching for her mother and triggers the destruction of the existing order. Jane's actions change the behavior of Rohan, the young boss of the area played by actor Jo Byeong Gyu.
Reports suggest Jini successfully handled a wide emotional range in the role, portraying everything from a girl longing for her mother's love to a tough survivor enduring a harsh environment. The film's producers note that she is expected to make her mark as a lead actress by delicately illustrating Jane's multi-dimensional character.
"Boy" features a notable ensemble cast alongside Jini. Jo Byeong Gyu plays Rohan, the young boss of Texas Hot Springs, while Yoo In Soo portrays Kyo Han, the big boss who maintains order through brutal control. Veteran actor Seo In Guk rounds out the main cast as the "Hat Maker," described as the ultimate villain and absolute evil force in Pogu.
The film is directed by Lee Sang Deok, who previously received critical acclaim when his film "Film Adventure" won the Best Film Award at the Bucheon Fantastic Film Festival. During a press screening held on Jan. 6, 2026, Jo Byeong Gyu expressed his excitement about returning to the big screen, stating he was drawn to the project because the script carried a unique music video vibe that could attract younger audiences to theaters.
Jini departed from NMIXX and JYP Entertainment in December 2022 due to personal reasons. Following her exit from the group, she signed with ATOC (formerly United Artists Production) in April 2023 and launched her solo music career.
She made her solo debut on Oct. 11, 2023, with the extended play "An Iron Hand in a Velvet Glove," which featured the lead single "C'mon" with Aminé. Prior to her acting debut, she also participated in music projects, including contributing to an OST titled "Starlight" for the popular webtoon "No Office Romance!."
At the Jan. 6 press screening, Jini expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting it was meaningful to make her acting debut alongside experienced actors. The film's theatrical release on Jan. 14, 2026, marks a new chapter in her entertainment career as she transitions from K-pop idol to actress.
