Cha Eun-Woo surprises fans with special appearance at 'The First Ride' event despite Military service

Cha Eun-Woo

Fans of Cha Eun-Woo got a heartwarming surprise this week when the actor managed to “attend” a major promotional event for his new film The First Ride—despite currently serving his mandatory military term.

On September 25, the cast, including Kang Ha-Neul, Kim Young-Kwang, Kang Young-Seok, and Han Sun-Hwa, gathered for a production briefing. But all eyes were on Cha Eun-Woo when a pre-recorded video message from the star played on screen.

“I really enjoyed filming The First Ride,” Cha Eun-Woo said in the clip. “You’ll be able to feel the memories, nostalgia, and intensity of school days. Please watch in theaters and experience the moments where you can share and reminisce about youth together.”

Cha Eunwoo on his movie The First Ride

“We had so much fun filming First Ride. It’s a story where you can relive the memories, nostalgia, and warmth of school days. Everyone has their own youth, and this film lets us share those moments together. There are so many points that… pic.twitter.com/cYj8Aqpg7R

— berry (@berryeunu) September 25, 2025

Kim Young-Kwang Brings Cha Eun-Woo’s Doll

If the video wasn’t enough, Kim Young-Kwang decided to add his own fun twist. The actor walked into the event carrying a life-size doll with Cha Eun-Woo’s face attached, ensuring the ASTRO singer was part of the full cast photo.

The way they put eunwoo in the audience seat😆

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Poor eunwoo he was alone and without shoes…😭#CHAEUNWOO #차은우#TheFirstRide pic.twitter.com/9LatX1lV09

— ~Dmm𓊆ྀི🧸𓊇ྀི~ (@eyecandyhae) September 25, 2025

The doll even “sat” in the audience, creating plenty of laughs and giving fans a sense that Cha Eun-Woo was there in spirit. For a film that celebrates friendship, it was a fitting moment of camaraderie.

About The First Ride

The First Ride tells the story of four childhood friends who have been inseparable for 24 years. Their first dream trip abroad quickly spirals into chaos when an unexpected companion joins, setting off a series of unpredictable and silly events. The comedy-drama hits theaters on October 29 and is already creating buzz thanks to its cast chemistry and lighthearted theme.

📸 Actor #ChaEunwoo as Yeonmin in <The First Ride> 1st press stills#차은우 #퍼스트라이드 #TheFirstRide#チャウヌ #车银优 #ชาอึนอู #車銀優 pic.twitter.com/CvWIRrWZWs

— CHA EUNWOO 차은우 INTERNATIONAL (@ChaEunwooINTL) September 4, 2025

Also read: Jimmy Kimmel returns to Nexstar ABC stations after affiliate boycott ends

FAQsQ1: How did Cha Eun-Woo attend The First Ride event while serving in the military?
Cha Eun-Woo appeared via a pre-recorded video message that was played for fans and the press.

Q2: What did Kim Young-Kwang do to represent Cha Eun-Woo at the event?
Kim Young-Kwang brought a life-size doll of Cha Eun-Woo, placing it in the cast photo and later in the audience.

Q3: When will The First Ride be released in theaters?
The First Ride is scheduled for release on October 29, 2025.