Rowoon’s Final Public Appearance Before Enlistment
As fans brace for SF9’s Rowoon to begin his mandatory military service, the idol-turned-actor made a poignant appearance at the Busan International Film Festival on October 18. He joined the outdoor stage event for his latest Disney+ K-drama, “The Matchmakers” (Korean title: “濁流”), alongside cast members Shin Ye-eun, Park Seo-ham, Park Ji-hwan, Choi Gyu-hwa, and director Joo Chang-min.
‘The Matchmakers’: A Turbulent Tale Set In Joseon
Invited to the festival’s On Screen section—the category for standout streaming content—The Matchmakers unfolds in Joseon-era Kyunggang, a hub where all wealth and goods converge. Amidst societal chaos, a band of characters with clashing dreams fights to reclaim their humanity. Rowoon plays Jang Si-yeol, a rugged rogue from the Mapo ferry dock with no home or name to return to.
“A Man With Nowhere to Return”
Describing his complex role, Rowoon shared, “He’s not a character you can sum up in one line. I kept thinking—he’s someone who has nowhere to return to.” With his enlistment rescheduled to October 27 after a medical reassessment, Rowoon was able to attend the event and promote the show before taking on a different kind of national duty.
Emotion-Driven Acting and Shirtless Applause
Rowoon emphasized the emotional depth of the project, saying, “It’s about human stories. Our director really helped us express the feelings truthfully. Honestly, you won’t regret watching it.” Director Joo Chang-min chimed in with a playful tease: “Wait until you see Rowoon’s upper body—seriously.”
Episodes 1 to 3 of The Matchmakers are already streaming on Disney+ since September 26, with two new episodes dropping every week. The nine-episode series promises action, ambition, and maybe a few unexpected abs.
Will ‘The Matchmakers’ Be Rowoon’s Last Hurrah?
As Rowoon trades screen scripts for military drills, fans are left wondering if The Matchmakers will be his breakout drama before enlistment. One thing’s for sure: he’s leaving on a high note. Get your tissues—and your Disney+ subscription—ready.
