Former NMIXX member Jini will make her acting debut in the dystopian neon-noir film “Boy,” which will premiere in South Korean theaters on January 14, 2026.
The film has already gained international recognition before its national release. “Boy” was officially invited to the 35th Fancine Fantastic Film Festival of the University of Málaga in Spain, where it had its world premiere in November 2025. The invitation to the festival marked a significant achievement for the production, eliciting a warm reception from the Spanish audience.
Set in the fictional near-future town of Pogu, “Boy” is described as a neon-noir film focusing on the events that took place in Texas Hot Springs, a dystopia for abandoned people. The story describes how a single example of love destroys all order in a world dominated by control and violence, represented through a sensible and aesthetic visual style.
Jini plays Jane, a new resident of Texas Hot Springs who becomes a central figure driving the tension of the plot. His character enters a dangerous place in search of his 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 that Jini successfully handled a wide emotional range in the role, playing everything from a girl longing for her mother’s love to a tough survivor enduring a harsh environment. The film’s producers point out that she is expected to make her mark as a leading actress by subtly illustrating Jane’s multidimensional character.
“Boy” features an impressive cast along with Jini. Jo Byeong Gyu plays Rohan, the young boss of Texas Hot Springs, while Yoo In Soo plays 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 force of ultimate evil 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 January 6, 2026, Jo Byeong Gyu expressed his excitement at the idea of returning to the big screen, stating that he was attracted to the project because the script contained a unique music video vibe that could attract younger audiences to theaters.
Jini left NMIXX and JYP Entertainment in December 2022 due to personal reasons. Following his exit from the group, he signed with ATOC (formerly United Artists Production) in April 2023 and launched his solo music career.
He made his solo debut on October 11, 2023, with the extended play “An Iron Hand in a Velvet Glove”, which featured the lead single “C’mon” featuring Aminé. Before her acting debut, she also participated in musical projects, including contributing an OST titled “Starlight” for the popular webtoon “No Office Romance!”.
At the press screening on January 6, Jini expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting that it was meaningful to make her acting debut alongside experienced actors. The film’s theatrical release on January 14, 2026 marks a new chapter in her entertainment career as she transitions from K-pop idol to actress.
