Jisoo: Star or Actress in 'Newtopia'?

Hello, K-pop and K-drama lovers! Today we dive into the world of 'Newtopia', the new zombie drama starring Jisoo from BLACKPINK and Park Jung-min. Since its premiere on February 7, this series has generated quite a stir in South Korea, but not necessarily for the reasons we expected.
The Controversy of Jisoo's Acting
Jisoo's debut as a protagonist in 'Newtopia' has been met with mixed reviews. Many viewers have expressed their disappointment with the idol's acting, pointing out problems with her diction and exaggerated facial expressions. These criticisms have reignited the debate about whether K-pop idols should venture into acting without proper training. However, it's important to remember that this is only Jisoo's second experience as a lead actress, after her role in 'Snowdrop' in 2021.
Is Jisoo the Only Problem?
Although Jisoo's acting has been the focus of attention, some critics argue that 'Newtopia's problems go beyond her individual performance. The series has been criticized for its slow pace in the early episodes and for failing to strike an effective balance between B-grade comedy and zombie horror. Even the talented Park Jung-min, known for his excellent acting, hasn't been able to fully shine in his role.

The Impact on Viewers
Despite the criticism, 'Newtopia' has managed to attract a large audience. The series broke the viewership record on its premiere day for Coupang Play, demonstrating Jisoo's drawing power and the popularity of the zombie genre in Korea. However, the question that arises is whether the series will be able to maintain this initial momentum in the face of negative criticism.
The Korean Public's Reaction
Reactions from the Korean public have been varied. While some BLACKPINK fans defend Jisoo and argue that she needs time to develop her acting skills, other viewers express their disappointment and question whether it was a wise decision to give her a leading role in a high-profile production. On social media, comments range from unconditional support to scathing criticism, reflecting the polarization of opinions.
The Future of 'Newtopia' and Jisoo as an Actress
With only two episodes aired, it's still early to determine the final fate of 'Newtopia'. Some critics suggest that the series could improve as the plot progresses and the characters develop. For Jisoo, this project represents an important challenge in her career as an actress. Her ability to overcome criticism and improve her acting in upcoming episodes could be crucial for her future in the entertainment industry beyond her music career.
Conclusion
The debut of 'Newtopia' reminds us that the transition from idol to actress is not always an easy path. As Jisoo faces this challenge, the series itself struggles to find its identity between horror and comedy. As fans of K-drama and K-pop, we can only wait and see how this story unfolds, both on screen and behind the cameras. Will Jisoo overcome the criticism and shine as an actress? Will 'Newtopia' find its place in the hearts of viewers? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: the debate about idols acting in dramas will continue to be a hot topic in the Korean entertainment industry.