[Korea.net News, Culture / Events, February 14 2008] Singer Rain grabs leading role in Hollywood film

Rain, Korea’s foremost entertainer recently dubbed one of the world’s most beautiful people, has clinched a leading role in a Hollywood flick scheduled to begin shooting later this year, his U.S. promotion agency said Wednesday (Feb. 13).

"Ninja Assassin," to be directed by James McTeigue, will mark the first time for the 26-old singer and actor, whose real name is Jeong Ji-hoon, to play a leading role in a U.S. movie. He will make his official Hollywood debut in May with a smaller role in "Speed Racer."

"This is such a huge opportunity for me. It seems like a dream," he said at a press conference in Seoul.

Rain emerged as a worldwide star when South Korea’s pop culture, especially its pop music and television dramas, became hugely popular several years ago in Asia and other regions.