Song Kang’s Comeback Sparks Buzz: Can He Pull Off Another Teen Role After Cha Eun Woo’s Enlistment?

According to a media report on June 30, with Cha Eun Woo heading off to the military, another “visual genius” is poised for a comeback Song Kang, who is currently serving in the army, is set to be discharged in October 2025 and is reportedly reviewing drama offers.

Four Hands (tentative title) is one of the works Song Kang is considering. His agency, Namoo Actors, confirmed, “It’s one of several proposals he has received and is currently under review.”

The drama centers around a piano prodigy and follows students at an arts high school, delving into their friendships, rivalries, love, and growth. The title “Four Hands” refers to a duet technique where two pianists play on a single piano. Interestingly, the story will also trace the characters into adulthood, portraying their evolution into professional pianists.

But the idea of Song Kang, who is turning 30, playing a high schooler again has sparked divided reactions online.

Some netizens voiced fatigue over the recurring theme:

• “Does it really suit a 30-year-old actor fresh from the army to play a teenager again?”
• “His image is too locked into these youthful roles—he needs to break out.”

Others chimed in with harsher critiques, “It’s hard to immerse in a story when grown men keep playing high school kids.”

Yet, a large portion of fans defended the move, citing his suitability for youth dramas:

• “Let’s be honest—Song Kang isn’t known for his acting range, so sticking to what works isn’t a bad idea.”
• “He looks young, and his vibe still fits these fresh roles better than heavy, mature characters.”

Since debuting, Song Kang has made a name through titles like Love Alarm, Sweet Home, Navillera, Nevertheless, Forecasting Love and Weather, and My Demon. While his visual appeal has earned him nicknames like “ultimate flower boy,” criticism about his acting depth has been persistent.

Notably, many of his signature roles such as in Love Alarm and Sweet Home had him playing high schoolers, a trend that has solidified his image as a youth-drama staple. This has prompted some to worry: if he reprises such roles post-military, will he ever escape the “eternal high schooler” tag?

Still, the new drama’s musical theme and emotional growth arc could give Song Kang the chance to show a more nuanced performance. It’s not just another high school drama, but potentially a mature story wrapped in a youthful package.

With no final decision made yet, all eyes are on what Song Kang will choose as his comeback—and whether he can finally silence his critics with improved acting and more diverse roles.