In a recent interview held at a bar in Gangnam, Seoul, Kim Sejeong spoke about her role in the historical fantasy drama. The River of the Moon and the long-awaited 10th anniversary meeting of the IOI.
Kim, who plays the lead role of Park Dal-i in the MBC Friday-Saturday drama, takes on a unique challenge with portraying a three-in-one character. The drama tells a romantic fantasy set in a turbulent era, where a crown prince who has lost his smile and a street vendor who has lost his memory end up exchanging souls.
From its debut in 2016 until today Produce 101where she came in second, Kim Sejeong has worn many hats: idol, soloist, and now a fully recognized actress. His career as a leading man was cemented The mysterious counter in 2020 and has broadened its global appeal with Commercial proposal in 2022. Entering her 10th year in the industry, she challenges herself once again with her first historical drama.
Known since her debut for her sunny and optimistic image, Kim has evolved but continues to radiate warmth, a quality that deeply conveys The River of the Moon. Her recent performance had many calling her his best role yet.
When talk of an IOI reunion surfaced, fans rejoiced. However, one name – Kang Mina – has made headlines for confirming that she will not be participating due to her acting commitments. Mina, once in the same agency (Jellyfish Entertainment) as Sejeong and a former gugudan member, is now signed to Story J Company and focuses solely on acting.
In the interview, Kim Sejeong addressed the meeting: “We know fans have been waiting a long time. We’ve wanted to give back for a while and we’ve had a lot of meetings.” But he clarified that nothing has been defined yet: “We’re just trying to align our hearts and see if we can make it happen. If we can give the fans a gift, we’ll do our best.”
When asked who is leading the efforts, Kim smiled: “There’s no leader. When someone leaves a message in the group chat, everyone jumps in and says, ‘I’ll do it!’ It is impossible to say that one person is taking responsibility.” He added, “We all love and appreciate IOI so much. Every single member actively shares ideas and participates in meetings.”
Reflecting on their deep connection, he said, “Even if nothing special happens, just waking up late at night with a message from the members about how we are all busy with our lives gives me strength.”
He also asked member Chaeyeon, who had experience with historical dramas, for advice: “Just talking to them, sharing funny selfies, we laugh and recharge. Their presence alone gives me strength when I’m tired.”
Sejeong stressed that the group continues to keep an eye on each other’s work: “It’s not about criticizing ability. It’s more like, ‘Wow, you’re doing great. You’re amazing.'”
He concluded with emotion: “Seeing them one by one accomplish things… even without knowing the details, you can feel how far they’ve come. It moves me every time.”
Kim Sejeong’s words reflect not only her continued growth as an artist, but also the enduring sisterhood within IOI — a group still united at heart, even if their paths have diverged.
Sources: Naver
