South Korean actor Kim Mu-yeol (김무열) is currently enjoying global fame and a career peak thanks to his role in the Netflix film “Badland Hunters.” Recently, a little-known secret about his debut has emerged: he almost didn't debut as an actor but as a member of a boy group.
The latest episode of the YouTube web show “Cheers, Brother,” hosted by Shin Dong-yeop (신동엽), aired on February 3. Entertainer Boom (붐), rapper Nucksal (넉살), and Hanhae (한해) appeared as guests, sharing various anecdotes from the entertainment industry. During the show, Boom revealed a story about how he once tried to recruit his high school classmate, Kim Mu-yeol, to form a boy group.
Boom explained that he and Kim Mu-yeol were high school classmates and have maintained a close friendship to this day. “I’m really happy to see Mu-yeol doing so well now. I even stayed up all night watching ‘Badland Hunters.’ If I call him, he’ll definitely answer. We’re true friends,” Boom said.
As the conversation continued, the topic of Kim Mu-yeol almost joining a boy group came up. The hosts asked, “We heard Kim Mu-yeol almost became a member of ‘Nuclear’ back then?” Boom immediately laughed and admitted, “That’s right, I really tried to persuade him relentlessly at the time.”
Boom recalled how highly he thought of Kim Mu-yeol at the time. “He had great looks and was full of passion. I kept telling him, ‘Mu-yeol, please join us! With your physique and passion, you’re sure to succeed.’” However, Kim Mu-yeol ultimately declined the offer. Boom jokingly added, “Even though I personally scouted him, I sulked for four months after being rejected.” His remark drew laughter from everyone present.
“Nuclear” was reportedly a five-member boy group Boom planned to form. He personally recruited students from Anyang Arts High School to create the team, then recommended them to an agency, hoping to debut a new idol group. Kim Mu-yeol was one of the individuals he actively sought to recruit.
However, Kim Mu-yeol remained steadfast in his decision, ultimately choosing to pursue an acting career. Boom also revealed, “At that time, Mu-yeol wanted to be an actor more than an idol.” Looking back now, Kim Mu-yeol’s decision to stick to his dream has led to his highly acclaimed acting career today.
