Im Siwan Reveals His Original Song on “Misaeng”

Im Siwan might be starring in “Misaeng” (“An Incomplete Life”), but his latest effort on the show suggests that his skills are moving toward completion.

Im Siwan plays the role of Jang Geu Rae on tvN’s hit drama “Misaeng” while continuing to perform with rising group ZE:A. Having already become the center of attention for his outstanding acting on the show, Siwan is now showing his maturity in music as well.

“Misaeng” revealed Siwan’s new solo song on December 12, for which he composed both music and lyrics. The song, called “However… Therefore…,” hasn’t yet been included in the broadcast charts, but it looks to have the makings of a hit. Fans are admiring the shape of the melody and its lyrics that are easy on the ear. The song deals with the frustrations that Jang Geu Rae and his coworkers are experiencing at the office, and ends with a short reference to “Jingle Bells” that puts listeners in the holiday spirit.

Siwan has been calmly ascending the ladder step by step as a singer, actor, and now composer, solidifying his position.

Siwan’s recent successes mirror those of his character on “Misaeng.” Viewers of the show often say that Siwan embodies Jang Geu Rae so well that it seems he isn’t even acting. Jang Geu Rae is an ugly duckling with an unimpressive resume in the general trading company One International, which is filled with employees who have impressive credentials and speak four or five languages. But the intern is able to use his unique character qualities like sincerity, charisma, and calm under pressure to move others to his side.

The real Im Siwan is similar. After getting his start as an idol singer with the 2010 debut of ZE:A, he started appearing alongside prominent actors in films and dramas. He first took supporting roles and as his skills became apparent, he was eventually given lead parts. In the role of the young Heo Yeom in “The Moon that Embraces the Sun,” he was admired by fans for his impressive visuals and solid acting ability. He later received recognition for his acting in “The Attorney” alongside established actors like Song Kang Ho and Kwak Do Won.

Jang Geu Rae uses his experience in baduk (go) to analyze crisis situations with techniques from the game. In much the same way, Im Siwan draws strength from his background singing on stage to approach his roles in films and dramas. He has learned valuable skills like expressing emotions and learning how to breathe together with his fellow performers.

And just as Jang Geu Rae is working hard to earn a permanent position at his company, Im Siwan is making an effort to mature as a singer.

Im Siwan is the lead who propelled “Misaeng” into its current spot as the hit drama for the last half of 2014. It is clear that his star will continue to rise as he builds on the drama’s popularity with his well-developed musical composition skills. Season 2 of “Misaeng” is being planned, making his path to further success clear. He just has to avoid any careless mistakes. As Deputy Oh (played by Lee Sung Min) would advise, “Don’t get drunk, Im Siwan!”

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