Arden Cho, the voice behind Rumi in KPop Demon Hunters, recently shared an intimate and inspiring message on Instagram reflecting on her career and rediscovery of purpose.
Her post, shared as an 11-image slideshow of photos and videos, opened with a heartfelt caption:
“Three years ago, on August 26, 2022, my first series as a lead, Partner Track, premiered. It was canceled after the first season — and with that, it killed my desire to keep acting. I was heartbroken, discouraged and done after giving it 20 years of my life. I quit. Traveled for a year and disappeared.
When I finally chose to come back, it was only for Asian-led projects that truly inspired me whether my part was big or small — Maybe Happy Ending, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and then of course KPop Demon Hunters.
On August 26, 2025 — the exact same date 3 years later — my second project as a lead since Partner Track became the #1 watched film on Netflix and a box office hit. If that’s not a sign from God to keep going, I don’t know what is…”
In the post, Cho explained how the cancellation of Partner Track after just one season left her disheartened and ready to leave acting behind. She spent a year traveling to heal and reflect before returning to the industry—this time choosing projects that centered Asian stories and representation.
Her decision led her to KPop Demon Hunters, where she voiced Rumi, one of the film’s fierce demon-fighting idols. The movie went on to become a global success and Netflix’s most-watched film of all time, marking a full-circle moment for Cho on the exact anniversary of her previous heartbreak.
She closed her post with gratitude for her supporters and excitement for her next project:
“Currently working on the most incredible movie with absolute STARS✨—can’t wait to show you our insane cast for Perfect Girl—8 Asian female leads! Pouring all my love and energy into this movie and beyond thankful to be surrounded by such kind, hardworking people in our entire cast and crew! Kindness is contagious y’all!!! ☺️”
Cho’s career has spanned over a decade, beginning with commercials and TV appearances in both the U.S. and Asia. She made early appearances in Pretty Little Liars and rose to fame as Kira Yukimura in Teen Wolf. Her credits also include Chicago Med and the 2022 Netflix series Partner Track. After taking time off, she returned for Avatar: The Last Airbender and KPop Demon Hunters—a project she originally thought would be her last, but instead reignited her love for performing.
Arden Cho’s story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the end of one chapter opens the door to a more meaningful beginning. Through KPop Demon Hunters and her renewed commitment to authentic storytelling, she’s not only reclaimed her passion—but continues to pave the way for greater Asian representation in entertainment.
Source: Instagram
