Former K-pop idol Lai Guanlin is back in spotlight as cultural ambassador

Photo from starfess/X

What happens to idols after they step away from the spotlight? Many explore business ventures or settle into quiet lives, while some embark on entirely new paths. 

Capturing widespread attention along the way, former member of the K-pop sensation Wanna One Lai Guanlin also took a step away from the limelight. 

In November 2024, the former Wanna One member and celebrated Chinese actor, found himself in the spotlight once more—not as an idol, but as a notable figure at the Cross-Strait Chinese Culture Summit. 

The event, dedicated to fostering cultural exchange between China and Taiwan, featured prominent political and cultural personalities, with Guanlin seated alongside influential figures such as Song Tao, director of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.

-star Lihatlah si maknae Wanna One aka Lai Guanlin 🥹 diam diam di belakang layar terus ikutan Culture Summit di negaranya. Bangga banget sama si maknae 😭😭 ini foto perjalanan karir dia, dan foto terbaru yang kanan bawah

Cr : guaniuwupic.twitter.com/938cKKtSAt

— Starfess || CEK PINNED UNTUK KIRIM MENFESS (@starfess) October 23, 2024

This appearance marks a significant change in Guanlin’s career. After announcing his retirement from the entertainment industry earlier in 2024, many assumed he would step away from public life entirely.

Instead, his involvement in the summit illustrates a new chapter – one where he continues to wield influence, albeit outside the realms of acting and music.

While the specifics of his role remain ambiguous, Guanlin’s participation highlights his stature within Taiwan’s cultural community.

Initial reports from some Vietnamese outlets suggested Guanlin had joined China’s civil service. 

Photo from Lai Guanlin Wanna One/ Facebook

However, fans quickly clarified that he was not a government official but had been invited as a cultural representative of Taiwan. His presence at the summit highlights his recognition as one of the significant figures within the cultural landscape, rather than a political player.

Before announcing his retirement from the industry, Guanlin returned to China to pursue acting, starring in hit dramas such as “A Little Thing Called First Love.” 

Though vague about his future plans, the former idol hinted at a “change in career direction,” sparking speculation that he might transition into directing. 

While his exact plans remain shrouded in mystery, his latest chapter demonstrates a commitment to bridging cultural dialogues and redefining what it means to evolve in the public eye.