Kim Min-kyu on “first, For Love“: Finding the Perfect “first Love” Look & Learning from Veteran Co-Stars
Seoul, South Korea – September 12, 2025 – Rising star Kim Min-kyu is captivating audiences with his role as the charming and endearing Ryu Bo-hyun in the TVN drama ”First, For Love.” The series, which explores the complexities of second chances and finding happiness, has garnered praise for its heartwarming story and strong performances – particularly Min-kyu’s. In a recent interview, the actor discussed his approach to the role, the challenges of portraying “first love,” and the invaluable guidance he received from his esteemed co-stars.
“First,For Love” centers around a single mother navigating life with her daughter,and the unexpected connections they forge.Min-kyu’s character, bo-hyun, is a young farmer who embodies a gentle spirit and a captivating innocence, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
To authentically portray bo-hyun’s youthful charm, Min-kyu delved into the concept of “first love” itself. “I hadn’t experienced my own first love yet,” he admitted, “but I thought it would be that feeling of being willing to do anything for that person, even to the point of sacrificing everything.” He also drew inspiration from the experiences of friends, noting, “My hometown friends often say love is both a blessing and a mistake. I have a friend who is still with his first love, and that gave me a lot to consider.”
The pursuit of the perfect visual representation of “first love” also played a role in his preparation. Min-kyu revealed he underwent a significant physical transformation, losing 13kg for a previous role in the web drama ”Cheongdam International High School.” ”The character in that drama was supposed to be very lean and sharp, so I made the effort to achieve that look,” he explained.
Beyond physical preparation, Min-kyu emphasized the crucial role of director Yoo Je-won in helping him embody Bo-hyun. “The director’s vision was amazing,” he said. “He really understood the character, and he helped me to fully immerse myself in the role. I’d heard from seniors that it’s not easy to work with Director Yoo, but the experience was truly exceptional.”
Working alongside veteran actors Park Hae-jun and Yeom Jung-ah proved to be a masterclass in acting. Min-kyu expressed his admiration for their dedication and authenticity. “They brought so much energy and conviction to their characters,” he shared. ”I had ideas about how they might play their roles, but seeing them in action was even more inspiring. I learned so much just by observing them.” He recounted a particularly touching moment where Park Hae-jun offered him guidance during a period of acting uncertainty, inviting
