From Idol Trainee to Rising Actress: The Story of Shin Eun-soo, Cast by JYP in 6th Grade
Imagine being scouted by a major entertainment company in elementary school. That’s exactly what happened to Shin Eun-soo, a now-rising actress who began her career as a promising idol trainee.
JYP Discovered Her in Grade 6
Shin Eun-soo was a 6th grader in elementary school, actively participating in a choir with her pure, bright vocals. Her voice and visuals caught the attention of a JYP Entertainment representative, who instantly offered her a casting opportunity. She passed the audition and began training, even performing in internal showcases, earning praise as a potential “ace” of a future girl group.
However, life had a different plan. Shin Eun-soo took a bold turn toward acting and made her debut in 2016 in the fantasy film “Vanishing Time: A Boy Who Returned” alongside Kang Dong-won. Remarkably, she landed the lead role after beating out over 300 other candidates—a debut that turned heads industry-wide.
Building Her Acting Portfolio
Following her stunning debut, Shin took on roles in hit dramas like The Legend of the Blue Sea, Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, A Model Family, and Summer Strike. In 2023, she gained widespread acclaim for her role in tvN’s “Twinkling Watermelon”, portraying a hearing-impaired high school student. Her expressive performance, using only sign language, facial expressions and eye contact, moved viewers and critics alike.
Pushing Boundaries and Embracing New Roles
Continuing to challenge herself, she starred in Disney+’s “Light Shop”, where she portrayed a character with complex emotions, demonstrating her refined acting skills and captivating screen presence.
“I feel like I spent my school years constantly challenging myself and trying new things. Choosing acting is something I’ve never regretted—it truly brings me joy,” she shared in an interview.
A Star in Her Own Right
Shin Eun-soo’s decision to leave behind the idol dream and pursue acting has proven to be a defining moment in her career. Her path reflects the courage to follow one’s true passion, and she continues to evolve into a respected actress with depth and authenticity.
As fans eagerly await her next project, one thing is certain—Shin Eun-soo’s journey is far from over, and she’s only just begun to show the full range of her talent.
