Onew views celebrities' pursuit of multiple jobs positively

SHINee member Onew takes part in a press conference for musical "Rock of Ages" held at the Olympic Park in Seoul, South Korea on September 16, 2010. [Lee Ki-bum/Asia Economic Daily]

Singer Onew of boy band SHINee has said he thinks positively of celebrities pursuing multiple jobs.

The 20-year-old singer made the remark at a press call and press conference for musical "Rock of Ages" on Thursday, responding to a reporter's question on what he thinks about celebrities branching out their careers to various realms of the entertainment industry.

"I think that one person being able to do several things is an advantage," Onew started by saying. "I used to feel distant about singers taking on acting but not anymore...... I think a lot can be shown including singing, acting and musicals when one is given the chance."

Singer Dana, also a cast member of the musical, agreed with Onew. "I think an artist's job is to make the public laugh and feel moved...... The only difference is whether it's done by singing or acting so I think taking on musicals where you can do both with some extra effort, is good as well," she explained.

Musical "Rock of Ages," Broadway's newest production this year composed of rock music and lyrical pop music representative of the 80s, is making its premiere in Korea.

Starring singers Shin Sung-woo, Ahn Jae-wook, Onew, J and Dana, the show will run till October 30 at the Olympic Park in Seoul