Crossing Over Ain't Easy: f(x)'s Luna Talks About The Trouble For K-Pop Stars Making The Jump Into Musicals

It's not easy for K-pop idols in the world of musicals, according to f(x) singer Luna.

In an interview Monday with the South Korean publication Newsen, Luna spoke out about the negative public perceptions many K-pop stars have to conquer to cross over into theater.

The 19-year-old f(x) member is preparing to star in a production of "High School Musical On Stage" opening July 2, as the character of Gabriella.

"The criticisms of the general public about [how the producers of some musicals cast K-pop stars for] ticket power rather than skill, are not wrong," Luna said.

"It was really hard for me too. But I also think that if a familiar face stars in a musical, then that musical will become that much more known and therefore, earn more fans. If a musical can get more PR through a star casting, I think that aspect can be viewed positively."

And it isn't just the general public that are critical of pop stars attempting to make the jump into musicals, but the other cast members as well, Luna explained.

"I also know how the musical actors view us idols, but the musical actors who I worked with, advised me, 'because you're an idol, many people are watching over you. A few might even view you with a different perspective, so I hope you will work even harder,'" she recalled.

Although her cast mates had exposed her to the ugly truth, the f(x) singer valued their honesty.

"Their straight-up advice made me feel very comfortable," she said.

Luna said that right from the start of her time performing in musicals, she has had to struggle to prove herself.

"During my first musical, 'Legally Blonde,' I worked really hard to change those certain prejudices," she said.  

"I hoped that when the other actors looked at me, they would think, 'I hope other idols will work as hard as Luna.' I have never rehearsed half-heartedly. It's a fact that I can be proud of. I also practiced very hard for this musical as well. I hope many people can see how I matured."

And Luna isn't the only K-pop idol in the new "High School Musical On Stage" cast.

Kim Ryeowook of 12-member boy band Super Junior and Lee Jae Jin of South Korean rock band FT Island will both play the part of Troy, along with popular comedian Kang Dong Ho.

In addition to Luna, actresses Oh So Yeon and Cho Ha will play the part of Gabriella.

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f(x)
Luna
High School Musical
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