Lai Kuanlin, formerly of the popular K-pop group Wanna One, recently shared a deeply emotional update on his life as a director after retiring from the entertainment industry.
Lai Kuanlin appeared on Mnet’s ‘WANNA ONE GO: Back to Base’ on the 5th, providing fans with a glimpse into his recent activities and career transition.
During the broadcast, fellow Wanna One member Ha Sung-woon traveled to Beijing, China, to meet Lai Kuanlin. Kuanlin, sporting short hair and casual attire, impressed with his fluent Korean skills.
When Ha Sung-woon commented, “You seem even better at Korean now than during Wanna One,” Lai Kuanlin replied, “That’s because I still have lingering feelings for Korea.” He then showed a ‘807’ tattoo on his arm, explaining, “If there’s a day in my life that needs celebrating, a day I personally want to commemorate, I would say August 7th.” This significant date marks Lai Kuanlin’s debut day with Wanna One.
Currently, Lai Kuanlin is pursuing a career as a film director after his retirement from the entertainment world. He revealed, “I’ve joined a Chinese film production company, attending the office, learning about scripts, and mainly working on short films. I’m on a salary now,” adding with satisfaction, “My heart feels full.” Ha Sung-woon teared up while saying goodbye to Lai Kuanlin at the airport, and other Wanna One members, including Park Ji-hoon, Hwang Min-hyun, and Ong Seong-wu, also wiped away tears while watching Kuanlin’s segment through video.
Following their meeting, Ha Sung-woon shared the emotional conversation he had with Lai Kuanlin. Lai Kuanlin expressed his gratitude to Ha Sung-woon, saying, “I cried a lot by myself and thought of my hyungs (older brothers/members) often. That’s how I endured. I’m doing very well and will continue to do so. Live happily.”
Ha Sung-woon added, “We will continue to cherish and love Kuanlin, who loves and supports Wanna One and Wannables (their fandom) more than anyone.”
Wanna One was a highly successful project group formed through ‘Produce 101’ Season 2, which aired in 2017. They rose to immense popularity, holding a massive debut showcase at Gocheok Sky Dome and achieving million-seller status with their debut album. After concluding their activities in January 2019, the members have been pursuing various successful careers as solo artists, group members, and actors.
