Choi Bomin Has The Honest Charm That Makes Every Moment Feel Like A First Date

The K-pop idol turned actor is bound to sweep you off your feet.

Published on Jul 18, 2025

First dates are—most of the time—exciting yet nerve-wracking. There's the thrill of meeting someone new, mixed with just the right amount of internal chaos. And honestly? We're all guilty of overthinking it before it even happens, hyping ourselves up while secretly spiraling. But when it clicks? It's full-on rom-com energy—or at the very least, a cute little story about how it all began. Just like this one.

Spending time with Choi Bomin felt like the kind of first date you hope for—fun, effortless, and full of surprises. It didn't take long to realize he was the perfect pick for our July 2025 Cosmo Crush.

You probably know him as the former member of the K-pop group, Golden Child—but now, he’s stepping into the spotlight on his own here in the Philippines. He's starring in the series Beauty Empire, alongside Barbie Forteza and Kyline Alcantara. That fresh, "new-to-the-scene" energy is exactly why Bomin was on our radar. We couldn't help but wonder what kind of adventure he'd have on this side of the world.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

It was Bomin's first time shooting with the Cosmo team—but you wouldn't have guessed it. He fit right in, laughing at everyone's jokes (yes, even the terrible ones) and effortlessly playing off our direction so naturally.

During our chat, we found out he treats himself to glazed donuts when he's tired and that he's a huge Max Verstappen fan. Spending time with Bomin felt surprisingly easy. Because underneath it all? He's just like anyone else—putting in the effort, trying his best.

That was one of the things that really stuck. He opened up about how he deals with dips in motivation. At 24, he's learning how to navigate the pressure that comes with being in the spotlight—and it's not always smooth sailing. "I have to remind myself every day that I can do this," he said.

The shoot may have been styled like a date, but it ended up feeling like one, too—easy, genuine, and unexpectedly personal. Bomin didn't just show up as a star; he showed up as someone honest, grounded, and full of heart. And just like after any great first date, we'll be waiting to hear from him—and see more of him—soon.

Choi Bomin Is Cosmopolitan Philippines' July 2025 Cosmo Crush

Choi Bomin on becoming a Cosmo Crush

What does it mean for you to be a Cosmo Crush?

Bomin: It's very meaningful because I like the word "crush." It's also my first time shooting with Cosmopolitan Philippines.

How would you define a "crush"?

Bomin: I think it's about "first love."

How do you act around your crush?

Bomin: I'm very shy when I'm in that situation. But I try to talk to them.

What's the best way for someone who has a crush on you to get your attention?

Bomin: The personality. I like someone energetic.

How do you react when somebody tells you they like you?

Bomin: I think, I [usually] take a pause and say "Oh really?" I [get] really shy.

What's your ideal date?

Bomin: Just cafe—because I like the usual. I like coffee too.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

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PHOTO: JL Javier

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PHOTO: JL Javier

Choi Bomin on starting a new chapter of his career in the Philippines

This shoot centers around the theme of a "first date" or first meeting. If someone were meeting you for the first time today, what's the first thing you'd want them to know about the Choi Bomin of 2025?

Bomin: Oh, that's very deep. 😅 Recently, I'm acting right now. And also in the Philippines, our show is in English. So, I think this year has been challenging for me. I always do my best right now. I want to show the variety of my personality, my different sides to other people.

If you could describe this new chapter of your life in one word or phrase, what would it be and why?

Bomin: Challenging every day. [laughs]

You began your journey in the entertainment industry as a member of Golden Child. What lessons from that time continue to shape your mindset and work ethic today?

Bomin: When I [was] in the group, I learned how to communicate with the other person. I have nine members in my group. So, every person is very different. So I learned how to communicate. It is very useful.

What's the difference now, pursuing your career as an actor compared to when you're a K-pop idol in a group?

Bomin: Sometimes, I feel very alone. I have been in the group for eight or nine years [before] I left. But recently, I message or call my members usually. We're just talking about what we're doing.

So, you're still close with them?

Bomin: Yes. Sometimes, I feel lonely. Sometimes, I don't feel like I'm alone, because they cheer me up. So, I think there's not much of a difference.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

Choi Bomin on embracing his idol-turned-actor journey

You've experienced a major transition—from idol to actor. What have you learned through that journey? What was the biggest challenge for you during that transition?

Bomin: The most challenging moment is [boosting] my confidence. Because when I'm in a group, the other person is very good at talking, the other person is very good at humor, the other person [is good] for other things—it is separate. But when I recently worked alone, only I could do everything. So, I needed more confidence than before.

What is it about acting or being an actor that currently inspires you or motivates you?

Bomin: I was in a group for eight to nine years. Now, I want to be challenged in my life too—and acting challenges me. Although I also like singing and dancing, when I was in the group, [I started to feel like] I want to be challenged in another job [as an actor].

We’re curious—what inspired you to take on work in the Philippines? Was it the culture, the people, or something else that drew you in?

Bomin: The first thing, I like English. And the first time I read the Beauty Empire script, it impressed me. It was very fun. It was very good. And my manager and management liked the script, too. Honestly, I'm very worried about working in the Philippines, because I have never been to the Philippines. Also, I'm a foreigner here, so I was a little worried. But actors and actresses, also my company—everyone is very kind to me. So, I have no worries right now.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

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PHOTO: JL Javier

What stood out to you the most during filming Beauty Empire? How was it like working with the cast?

Bomin: Everyone is very energetic in the location when we're shooting. The weather is very hot. Everyone was exhausted and tired, but they're always happy and energetic. I think that is the attractive moment [during filming]. I'm an actor, I'm exhausted, too, but the director [and staff], sometimes they will cheer me, [saying,] "Bomin, how are you?"

What’s been the most memorable part of filming in the Philippines so far?

Bomin: When I met the Beauty Empire director, we talked maybe four hours or three hours for the character and story. I was very impressed because the director is very detailed and very confident.

Now that you're working in both South Korea and the Philippines, how do you stay true to yourself while navigating two entertainment industries?

Bomin: My motivation is the people around me, I think. I get very exhausted, I have a tight schedule—also, the flight is exhausting, too. But the people around me are very kind to me. My manager, my company, and you, too—everyone cheers me up.

Choi Bomin on how he unwinds

When you're not super busy with work, what does your day off look like?

Bomin: I get up in the morning and take care of my dogs.

How many dogs do you have?

Bomin: Two. I have two poodles. Joy—J-O-Y—and Zero. The first one [Joy] is white and the second one [Zero] is black. Boy and boy.

Ah, both boys. But Joy [is the name] for a boy?

Bomin: Yes. 😄 And I feed them, and walk them outside for about two hours. Every day I also go to the gym. Sometimes, I read scripts, and then watch a movie or drama at home.

What's your go-to comfort food after a long day at work?

Bomin: Krispy Kreme donuts. When I'm really exhausted, I order two boxes—just glazed. That's my "exhausted routine." I can eat it alone, 12 donuts, right? Yes.

Do you have any hobbies you do when you want to relax?

Bomin: I listen to music. It's very relaxing to me. When I listen to music, I can [also] focus on the script.

What's a recent drama or film you’ve watched and would like to recommend?

Bomin: Netflix's The Trauma Code: Heroes On Call. The story and acting are very nice. So, I recommend this drama.

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PHOTO: JL Javier / Bomin is wearing a custom suit by Hi It's Me.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

Choi Bomin on motivation and taking on a fresh start

What would you say to someone who's feeling a little lost or burnt out in their career right now?

Bomin: Oh, it's me. 🥺 I think the question is for me...

Do you experience moments like that, too—when your motivation dips?

Bomin: Ahh, I think I have to always remind myself that I can do this. So, that's what I would tell others. I want to tell them the same: you can do this. It's about having a positive mindset.

If you're not an actor, what would you be doing?

Bomin: F1 driver. Also pilot, too. But more on becoming an F1 driver.

So, you're an F1 fan? What's your team?

Bomin: Yes. Red Bull.

Have you watched an F1 race already in person?

Bomin: Only on TV. But for sure, I want to watch [one] in person. I have uniforms, too. When I'm in Korea, I'm watching the race [alone] wearing the Red Bull uniform. 😂

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PHOTO: JL Javier

And what would you say to your future self, 10 years from now?

Bomin: Don't be afraid. Don't be afraid of everything.

What's one goal—whether personal or professional—you're working toward this year?

Bomin: Right now, my dream is for Beauty Empire to become the most-watched drama in the Philippines.

What projects are you working on, and can you share with us some details about your upcoming films and series?

Bomin: I have a film in South Korea, called Ghost Train. It's my first film, so it's very meaningful. I hate ghosts, but the character is very interesting. I have an upcoming drama in Korea, too. But it's not yet finalized, so I can't say much.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

If you could speak directly to your fans through this feature, what message would you want to share with them?

Bomin: I'm always very thankful. Sometimes, I feel pressured, but that pressure means I want to show more of myself to the fans. That is my greed [drive]. But I'm always thankful.

What does "starting fresh" mean to you in 2025? What does a fresh start look like for Choi Bomin right now?

Bomin: I think trying out new things. This year, I will be doing more than last year.

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PHOTO: JL Javier

Photographer: JL Javier

Art Director: Ica Del Mundo, assisted by: Gaby Molina and Patty Tanquintic

Executive Editor: Ida Aldana

Producer: Kate Sarmiento

Styling: Dave Arden Cruz

Grooming: Luis Buñag

Story: Kate Sarmiento

Videos: Jino Del Mundo and Cherrie Julian, assisted by: Gerry Oribeda Jr.

Social Media: Aina Lizarondo, assisted by Myrrh Flores

Shot on location at The Millas Hostel and Cafe

Special thanks to Universal Records PH and GLXY Management

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