Former Wanna One’s Lai Kuanlin Confesses True Thoughts About Living As An “Ordinary Salaryman”

Maknae Lai Kuanlin recently reunited with the members virtually through Wanna One GO: BACK TO BASE. He met up personally with Ha Sungwoon, sending a video message to the other members. He also was able to receive messages from the other members through the show.

Fans also caught a glimpse of his current life away from the screen. Lai Kuanlin insisted that he still found it difficult to make a comeback, with being on television hard. This was the main reason he did not want to formally participate in Wanna One‘s reunion activities, even though he was willing to appear briefly in an episode of Wanna One GO: BACK TO BASE.

He also admitted his thoughts about his life now. Kuanlin shared that he works at a film production company and is currently learning about script-writing. He is now a regular salary man.

“I’m working in a Chinese movie production company, and I’m working on short films mostly while learning about scriptwriting. I’m a salaryman now, so I do feel rather relieved.”

Compared to his glorious days as an idol, Kuanlin confessed that it feels rather stable and he enjoys this life better.

Kuanlin really had a tough time as a trainee in another country.
He has now quit the idol industry and looks very happy, the members respected that decision, continue to look out for him, and honor his contribution to the group. that’s a real team ❤️ pic.twitter.com/cOUU3hTRqJ

— ⋆✧ ωαƖe ✧⋆🌻🦊 (@candiesandsun) May 5, 2026

“I love it so much now. Seeing myself get better slowly, is great. Rather than becoming a singer too quickly, I love seeing myself slowly improve.”

Back then, Kuanlin debuted after only a few months of training. He quickly became one of the most popular members on Produce 101, securing a spot on the final lineup. He previously announced his retirement from the entertainment industry and has been working in filmmaking ever since.