Kim Myung Soo Is Our December Cosmo Crush—And Forever Bias

Crushes come in different forms—or categories, if we can call it that. One can have an actor crush, a musician, or in most cases here at Cosmo: a K-pop idol. But there's always gonna be that kind of crush who's so talented, so well-rounded, sooo ridiculously charming that they're impossible to get over—no matter how much time passes by. And so, to end the year 2024, we're sharing with you the irresistible charm of our December 2024 Cosmo Crush: Kim Myung Soo.

For most second-gen K-pop fans, you probably know him more as L and he was the perfect visual for his K-pop group, INFINITE. Debuting into the K-pop world in his early 20s, it's not a secret how hard he trained to perfect his craft. From singing to dancing, he has nailed it with every performance.

Now, he's bringing his talents to the Philippines as he signed with Universal Records Philippines and GLXY Entertainment last November 2024. This move, as he described, is his way of bringing back the love he received from his Filipino fans.

As if being a successful idol wasn't a great feat for L already, he stepped into the world of acting—and again, he didn't disappoint. L is known for his classic and unforgettable K-dramas, namely Angel's Last Mission: Love, Meow, The Secret Boy, Secret Royal Inspector, and more. Just recently, he did a historical drama called Dare to Love Me, which also marked his comeback acting project after serving in the military.

Now 32 years old (in international age), Kim Myung Soo is still getting better. The actor-idol is out there making his mark as a solo artist of his own league. He's been releasing heart-melting ballads throughout the year amid his busy schedule which comprises photoshoots, fan meetings, and filming for upcoming projects.

If that's not crushable enough for you, don't worry we've got receipts—the good kind! In an exclusive chat with Cosmopolitan Philippines, Kim Myung Soo opens up about his life (on-cam and off-cam!), his dreams, and just about everything that makes him our Cosmo Crush. ;)

Kim Myung Soo Is Cosmopolitan Philippines' Cosmo Crush For December 2024

You’re now officially a Cosmo Crush! How would you define a crush?

L: First of all, I am very flattered to be a Cosmo Crush. I personally think a "crush" is someone who can provide motivation or someone who can turn your bad day into a good one.

Why did you decide to explore opportunities in the Philippines?

L: I wanted to pay back the love from Filipino fans who were so passionate at the last concert.

Have you learned some Filipino words so far?

L: Mabuhay!  I'm not good at it yet, but I want to learn more words in the future.

You came from such a busy schedule, can you let us in on what your skincare secrets are when you're busy traveling?

L: I try to put on a face mask at least once a day. It's usually dry, so I'm trying to moisturize it a lot.

You've played a wide range of roles in your career. Which one has been the most challenging for you and why?

L: I think the characters in each drama were all challenging. That's why I studied a lot about the characters I played and eventually became fond of them.

What is your favorite thing as an actor? And what do you think is your charm as an idol?

L: I think the biggest advantage is that I can act out various occupations. I think it's my biggest advantage as an actor—to act as professionals that I haven't experienced before.

As an idol, I'm so happy that I can experience many performances and songs of various genres, and share my emotions through songs.

Fans know you for your talent and your visuals, but what's something about you that fans might be surprised to learn?

L: It's that I like to be well-planned and organized and that I like to be neat.

Among the projects or roles you haven't done in Korea, what do you want to try in the Philippines?

L: I want to do more special activities and projects that we can only do in the Philippines. I'm planning to visit the Philippines a lot so I can do these projects.

As an international artist, what difficulties do you think you will have when entering a new market like the Philippines?

L: I think it's the language, but I want to work hard and show everyone that it's a challenge that I am willing to overcome.

What does Kim Myung Soo usually do on his days off? Do you have any hobbies or interests that can relax your mind?

L: I like staying in at home. On off days, I usually spend the whole day doing household chores I have put off, or catching up on movies, dramas, or animations I have missed.

If you could collaborate with one of the artists or actors around the world, who would you collaborate with, and why?

L: I think I, myself, need to work harder to collaborate with other artists. I want to improve my own skills and collaborate with more people.

What is your favorite thing in the Philippines?

L: I felt this during these past promotional activities—I think it's the passionate and bright energy.

How was the fan meeting in Manila in August? What was the most unforgettable moment for you?

L: It was such a precious and happy time to meet the fans and share my feelings with them after a while. I want to go to the Philippines and perform again.

Do you have a creed or philosophy of life that you usually follow?

L: Let's do our best now. I think what I do now is the cornerstone of what happens in the future. My creed is to do my best in everything every moment.

What's one goal you hope to achieve in 2025, professionally and personally?

L: I want to show you a better side of me. I want to show more results in the fields of acting and singing.

How do you stay grounded despite your fame and do you have any tips for artists on staying humble while achieving success?

L: I think I still have a long way to go. I want to work harder and become a proud and confident Kim Myung Soo / L for my fans. I'll be back with better projects and albums.

Finally, if people were to remember Kim Myung Soo in just one sentence, how would you want them to describe you?

L: An individual who grows every moment. As time goes by, I want to become a cool person who continues to learn as time goes by.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Dave Graciadas
ART DIRECTOR: Ica Del Mundo
ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Ida Aldana
PRODUCER: Alyana Olivar, assisted by Kate Sarmiento and Clara Umali
STYLING: Rush Romano
SET STYLING: Jagger Studios
STORY: Kate Sarmiento
VIDEOS: Cherrie Julian and Jino Del Mundo
SOCIAL MEDIA: Aina Lizarondo, assisted by Keonna Atienza

Special thanks to Universal Records Philippines.