Girls' Generation's Choi Sooyoung Makes Hollywood Debut in 'Ballerina'

Girls' Generation's Choi Sooyoung has successfully made her Hollywood debut in the John Wick spin-off "Ballerina," earning praise from co-star Ana de Armas and international fans following the film's June 6 US release.

With the US release of "Ballerina," a spin-off from the acclaimed John Wick franchise, Girls' Generation member and actress Choi Sooyoung has achieved her Hollywood debut. The film, set for South Korean release in August, has garnered international attention for both its action sequences and Sooyoung's compelling performance as Katla Park.

Lead actress Ana de Armas, who plays the titular ballerina-assassin Eve Macarro, had glowing praise for her Korean co-star. "She was really lovely. She did so well, was ready to do anything, and was really great. Working with her was wonderful," de Armas said during promotional interviews.

When asked about her familiarity with Girls' Generation or K-pop, de Armas honestly admitted she wasn't initially aware of Sooyoung's celebrity status. "I actually didn't know much about it. The dance club scene took about a week to film. We spent time together during breaks between filming and had fun. It was really good."

De Armas particularly appreciated Sooyoung's dedication to her craft: "She was such a kind person and made me feel like I was truly part of the team. As an actress, what impressed me most was her complete immersion in her role."

In "Ballerina," Sooyoung portrays Katla Park, the daughter of a Ruska Roma ally who becomes a crucial figure in Eve Macarro's journey. The character is a ballerina who performs at a dance club and finds herself under the protection of the deadly ballerina-assassin Eve.

Sooyoung brought depth to her character by creating an extensive backstory. "I imagined that it was Katla Park's birthday, and from a career standpoint, this day represented a major turning point when her dreams were finally coming true," she explained. "Creating this background helped me express her fear, her will to survive, and her complex emotions."

The actress emphasized the emotional core that drew her to the project: "Although it is an action movie, I was especially drawn to the story because it explores the relationship between a father and daughter. I truly love my family, and to me, they mean everything."

The global reaction to Sooyoung's Hollywood debut has been overwhelmingly positive. International viewers have shared sentiments ranging from emotional overwhelm to genuine pride, with many expressing hopes to see her take on larger roles in future international projects.

Fans have praised both Sooyoung's screen presence and the significance of her casting in a major Hollywood production, recognizing this debut as a potential stepping stone to broader Hollywood opportunities.

"Ballerina" is set between the events of "John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum" and "John Wick: Chapter 4." The film has received a 76-77% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics, making it the lowest-rated film in the John Wick franchise, though still maintaining the "fresh" designation. However, the film has achieved a 93% audience score, tying with John Wick: Chapter 4 for the highest audience rating in the franchise.

This Hollywood debut represents the culmination of Sooyoung's transition from K-pop idol to serious actress. Since Girls' Generation's debut in 2007, she has steadily built her acting portfolio through various Korean television dramas, including recent successes like "Run On," "If You Wish Upon Me," and "Not Others."

Sooyoung's success in "Ballerina" not only represents a personal achievement but also highlights the growing global recognition of Korean talent in the entertainment industry. As one of the few K-pop artists to successfully transition into major Hollywood productions, her debut marks a significant moment for both her career and the broader representation of Korean performers on the international stage.