B1A4’s Sandeul is laying it all bare — from behind-the-scenes of The Days rehearsals to his pre-debut “cringe” moments.
The July 1 broadcast of MBC’s variety show Radio Star is a special titled ‘National Sons’, featuring Ryu Soo-young, Choi Jin-hyuk, Yoon Shi-yoon, and Sandeul, who are currently starring in the musical The Days.
Now in his 15th year since debut, Sandeul is called a senior ace on music shows — but in the musical world, he’s the youngest on the team. Unlike the idol scene where he often worked with juniors over a decade younger, he says he’s happily taking on true maknae duties in the rehearsal room, even tidying the waiting room among senior actors.
He also shares heartwarming stories about his seniors. “Thanks to the hyungs, I was moved every day,” Sandeul says, expressing gratitude toward Ryu Soo-young, Choi Jin-hyuk, and Yoon Shi-yoon. In particular, Ryu Soo-young played the dependable senior by bringing sweet potatoes and boiled eggs to practice, while Choi Jin-hyuk and Yoon Shi-yoon also showed thoughtful care for their juniors, creating a warm atmosphere.
On the flip side, there’s a hilarious reveal about sword-fighting practice. Sharing an action-rehearsal anecdote, Sandeul jokes, “The hyungs beat me with bamboo swords,” prompting laughs. Choi Jin-hyuk reportedly even demonstrates a sword-fighting routine on set to clear things up, raising curiosity.
Sandeul also opens up about his growth as a musical actor. He recalls that during his very first musical rehearsal years ago, director Jang Yoo-jung told him to “get out.” Fourteen years later, they reunited for The Days, and he finally earned her recognition — a full-circle moment for Sandeul.
Pre-debut memories resurface, too. Sandeul brings up his ‘Busan singing prodigy’ days, when he appeared on SBS’s variety show Star King with DAY6’s Sungjin. He’ll also reveal the backstory of his now-famous “thick glasses” meme photo from when he wore a -12.0 prescription.
From idol senior to musical maknae — and from harsh critiques to recognized actor — Sandeul’s journey airs tonight at 10:30 p.m.