Get ready to dive deep into the world where stages meet screens. From the fierce choreography of boy groups to the gripping narratives of hit dramas, some of K-pop’s brightest stars have seamlessly transitioned into phenomenal actors, stealing hearts on a whole new level. This article celebrates the leading men who proved they’re more than just idols – they’re acting powerhouses!

Debut: Solo singer under JYP Entertainment (2002)

Music Career: Multiple chart-topping albums including It’s Raining (2004) and Rainism (2008).

Acting Debut: Sang Doo! Let’s Go to School (2003) – earned Best New Actor at KBS Drama Awards.

Breakthrough: Full House (2004) – led as top star Lee Young-jae; huge ratings and Hallyu spread.

Rain (Jung Ji-hoon) is one of the earliest and most iconic examples of a K-pop idol successfully transitioning into acting. Debuting in 2002 as a solo artist under JYP Entertainment, Rain quickly rose to fame with his powerful dance performances, vocal talent, and charismatic stage presence—earning him idol status despite not being in a group. He made his acting debut in Sang Doo! Let’s Go to School (2003) and achieved massive success with Full House (2004), which became a cornerstone of the Korean Wave. Rain remains active in both music and acting, with recent dramas like Red Swan (2024) and Ghost Doctor (2022).

Debut: Solo singer (2009, Superstar K winner)

Music Career: Successful as both a balladeer and OST artist.

Acting Debut: Love Rain (2012)

Breakthrough: Reply 1997 (2012)

Praised for his realistic and relatable portrayals, Seo has led dramas like Shopping King Louie, The Smile Has Left Your Eyes, and Doom at Your Service. He’s shown range from rom-com to tragic characters and is known for deep chemistry with co-stars.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• Twelve (KBS2 / 2025): He is set to appear in this drama.
• Boyfriend on Demand (Netflix / 2025): He will be playing Park Kyeong-Nam in this Netflix series.

Debut Group: 2PM (2008, JYP Entertainment)

Music Career: Part of the “beast-idol” era, 2PM had multiple #1 hits and built a strong international fanbase.

Acting Debut: Cold Eyes (2013)

Breakthrough: The Red Sleeve (2021) – gained widespread acclaim and Baeksang Best Actor nomination.

Junho initially took on supporting roles in films (Cold Eyes) and slowly built his reputation through serious dramas like Just Between Lovers (2017). His nuanced performance in The Red Sleeve (2021) was a turning point—earning him accolades for portraying a conflicted, romantic king. He followed it up with King the Land (2023), showcasing his versatility in romantic comedy.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• Typhoon Boss (tvN): In this drama, Junho will play Kang Taepung, a young CEO struggling to save his late father’s small business during the 1997 IMF financial crisis. This role is expected to showcase a more serious and inspiring side of his acting. Kim Min Ha has been confirmed as his co-star.
• Cashero (Netflix): This highly anticipated series is inspired by a webtoon and will feature Junho as Kang Sang-woong, an ordinary civil servant with supernatural powers that are tied to his financial means. This project is expected to show his versatility and venture into comedic acting.

Debut Group: 2PM (2008, JYP Entertainment)

Music Career: Known for charismatic rap and stage presence.

Acting Debut: Cinderella’s Sister (2010)

Breakthrough: Vincenzo (2021) – praised for his chilling antagonist role.

After dabbling in light roles (Dream High, Who Are You), Taecyeon showed steady growth, portraying both charming and intense characters. His surprise turn as the villain in Vincenzo (2021) stunned viewers, proving his ability to break from his idol image. He’s since appeared in Heartbeat (2023) and continues to explore diverse genres. He is the lead in The First Night with the Duke (premiered June 11, 2025, KBS2) – a fantasy romance drama that has Taecyeon in dual roles as a prince and alter ego.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• The First Night With the Duke (KBS2 / 2025): He will star as Yi Beon, the male lead in this romance fantasy drama. His character is a seemingly perfect man whose hidden emotions begin to surface after a fateful encounter.
• Soul Mate (Netflix / 2025): This Netflix series, premiering in August 2025, will see Taecyeon playing Johan Hwang, a Korean boxer. The story follows two young men with deep wounds who discover an inexplicable bond.

Debut Group: EXO (2012, SM Entertainment)

Music Career: Main vocalist of one of the most successful K-pop acts globally.

Acting Debut: It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)

Breakthrough: 100 Days My Prince (2018), a cable drama ratings hit.

D.O. is one of the few idols respected early on for his acting. He’s played deeply emotional characters in Cart (2014), My Annoying Brother (2016), and Swing Kids (2018). His dramatic roles are often grounded and subtle, and he’s also excelled in voice acting (Underdog, 2018) and legal dramas like Bad Prosecutor (2022).

Current/Upcoming project:

The Manipulated (Disney+): D.O. takes on his first-ever villain role, portraying the cold, calculating mastermind Yo‑han who orchestrates a complex frame-up and psychological game against the lead character

Debut Group: EXO (2012, SM Entertainment)

Music Career: Main vocalist and leader, released solo EP Self‑Portrait in 2020.

Acting Debut: Exo Next Door (2015, web drama) – portrayed a fictional version of himself.

Breakthrough: The Universe’s Star (2017) – lead in MBC’s drama special as a gifted singer-songwriter.

Suho expanded his film credentials with One Way Trip (2016) and took lead roles in Rich Man (2018) and the indie feature Student A (2018). Recently starred in TV dramas like Behind Your Touch (2023) and Missing Crown Prince (2024), showcasing a shift toward fantasy and thriller genres.

Debut Group: ZE:A (2010, Star Empire Entertainment)

Music Career: Known for ballads and strong vocals.

Acting Debut: The Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)

Breakthrough: Misaeng (2014) – a modern classic in Korean drama.

Si-wan transitioned smoothly from idol life to intense dramatic roles. In The Merciless (2017), he stood alongside veteran actors and held his own. He’s also starred in thrillers (Strangers from Hell), slice-of-life (Run On), and period dramas (Tracer, Boyhood). He’s known for taking on layered and cerebral characters.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

Squid Game 3 (Netflix / 2025): He will continue his role as Lee Myung-Gi (Player 333, starting Season 2) on the third season of Squid Game.

Debut Group: ZE:A (2010, Star Empire Entertainment)

Music Career: Also known for OST contributions and variety show fame.

Acting Debut: I Remember You (2012)

Breakthrough: Strong Woman Do Bong Soon (2017)

After supporting roles in High Society and Hwarang, Hyung-sik found his stride with Strong Woman Do Bong Soon. He has since proven his emotional depth in Suits, Happiness, and Our Blooming Youth. His growth has been marked by stronger screen presence and diverse romantic pairings. His most recent projects include Doctor Slump and Buried Hearts.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

Twelve (TBA / 2025): Hyung-sik takes on his first-ever antagonist role in the fantasy-action series Twelve, portraying O‑gwi, a powerful evil spirit representing the crow from Eastern zodiac mythology.

Debut Group: ASTRO (2016, Fantagio)

Music Career: Known as “face genius,” Eun-woo helped raise ASTRO’s visibility.

Acting Debut: Hit the Top (2017)

Breakthrough: My ID is Gangnam Beauty (2018), True Beauty (2020)

Best known for his visual appeal, Eun-woo has gradually improved his range with lead roles in Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung, True Beauty, and Island (2022–23), where he played a priest in a fantasy horror setting. While still developing, he’s admired for commitment and emotional sincerity on screen. His most recent role is Wonderful World (2024).

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• The Wonder Fools (Netflix): This drama is currently in production and will feature Cha Eun-woo as Lee Woon-jung, a socially awkward civic servant who gains superpowers. It is slated for a 2026 release.
• First Ride (Movie): A film featuring Cha Eun-woo and Kang Ha-neul is also in the pipeline.

Debut Group: SF9 (2016, FNC Entertainment)

Music Career: Lead vocalist and visual, with international fan appeal.

Acting Debut: School 2017

Breakthrough: Extraordinary You (2019), The King’s Affection (2021)

Rowoon steadily gained attention in school dramas (School 2017, About Time), but his breakout in Extraordinary You cemented him as a romantic lead. He’s since embraced historical (The King’s Affection) and supernatural (Destined With You) themes, showing charisma, warmth, and comedic timing.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

The Murky Stream (Disney+ / September 2025): This historical drama is expected to be his final project before he begins his mandatory military service on July 21, 2025, where he will serve as an active-duty soldier in the Army.

Debut Group: JJ Project (2012), GOT7 (2014, JYP Entertainment)

Music Career: Originally debuting in a duo with JB, Jinyoung later gained popularity with GOT7’s global rise, known for smooth vocals and charisma on stage.

Acting Debut: Dream High 2 (2012)

Breakthrough: He Is Psychometric (2019), The Devil Judge (2021)

Jinyoung has built a reputation as an introspective and nuanced actor. From student heroes to emotionally layered roles in melodramas, his performances in Yumi’s Cells and Christmas Carol (2022) showcase his growing range. He won acclaim for A Christmas Carol, solidifying his status as a true all-rounder.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• Our Unwritten Seoul (Netflix / 2025): This romantic drama premiered on May 24, 2025, and features Jinyoung as Lee Ho Soo, a character tied to memories of first love.

Debut Group: SHINee (2008, SM Entertainment)

Music Career: Known for his athletic image and fiery rap performances, Minho also stands out for his stage charisma and variety show appearances.

Acting Debut: Pianist (2010)

Breakthrough: To the Beautiful You (2012)
Minho’s breakthrough came with the lead role in To the Beautiful You, where he played a high-jump athlete. His acting range expanded through diverse roles in Hwarang, Somehow 18, and Illang: The Wolf Brigade. His nuanced portrayals in Lovestruck in the City and Netflix’s The Fabulous further solidified his romantic lead credentials. Known for his intense gaze and emotional delivery, Minho continues to evolve into a mature actor.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

Frankly Speaking (2024): Played the lead as a news anchor who can’t lie after an accident, showcasing his comedic timing and growth in light romantic dramas.

Debut Group: 5urprise (2013, Fantagio) – acting-focused idol group

Music Career: Minimal music activity; focused on acting from the start.

Acting Debut: After School: Lucky or Not (2013)

Breakthrough: Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)

A sleeper hit, Tae-oh’s performances have been quietly strong in Run On, Doom at Your Service, and Extraordinary Attorney Woo. His portrayal of a kind, patient colleague drew global love and proved he could elevate even supporting roles to scene-stealing performances. His most recent project was The Potato Lab (Netflix / 2025).

Debut Group: 5urprise (2013, Fantagio) – acting-focused idol group

Music Career: Participated in some 5urprise group OSTs; primarily known as an actor.

Acting Debut: After School: Lucky or Not (2013, web drama)

Breakthrough: Cheese in the Trap (2016)

Seo Kang-joon rose to fame as the charming second lead in Cheese in the Trap. He transitioned smoothly to lead roles in Are You Human Too?, Watcher, and When the Weather Is Fine, showcasing a wide range from AI romance to psychological thrillers. Loved for his expressive eyes and melancholic tone, he’s earned strong fan loyalty.

Debut Group: 5urprise (2013, Fantagio) – acting-focused idol group

Music Career: No formal music releases; focused entirely on acting and variety.

Acting Debut: After School: Lucky or Not (2013, web drama)

Breakthrough: The Bride of Habaek (2017)

Gong Myung built his name with second lead roles before progressing to romantic and historical leads in Be Melodramatic and Lovers of the Red Sky. Known for his sincere energy and soft-boy visuals, he’s also made his mark in films like Extreme Job and Citizen of a Kind. His growing emotional depth promises stronger leading man roles ahead.

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• Second Shot at Love (2025): Seo Ui‑joon, a highly skilled psychiatrist and Han Geum‑ju’s high‑school first love who despises alcohol.
• Way Back Love (2025): Kim Ram‑woo, Hee‑wan’s childhood friend and first love — now appearing to her as a grim reaper just before her death.
• Mercy for None (2025): Nam Gi‑jun, alongside So Ji‑sub and Lee Beom‑soo — an ensemble part in this action-noir revenge thriller.

Debut Group: B1A4 (2011, WM Entertainment)

Music Career: As B1A4’s leader, vocalist, and composer, Jinyoung contributed to the group’s creative identity. He’s also penned hits for other artists and OSTs.

Acting Debut: She is Wow (2013)

Breakthrough: Love in the Moonlight (2016), My First First Love (2019)

Jinyoung earned praise for his role as Crown Prince Yoon-sung in Love in the Moonlight, showing depth and poise. He followed it with romantic leads in youth dramas, earning him recognition for natural charm and emotional range. After completing military service, he returned in Police University (2021).

Debut Group: Super Junior (2005, SM Entertainment)

Music Career: Part of one of the most successful 2nd-gen groups internationally.

Acting Debut: Eighteen, Twenty-Nine (2005)

Breakthrough: She Was Pretty (2015), and continued comedy success with Work Later, Drink Now (2021–2022)

Siwon’s comedic flair has become his signature. From She Was Pretty to Revolutionary Love and Work Later, Drink Now, he often brings physical comedy, warmth, and high-energy performances. His long career includes both romantic and action-heavy roles (Poseidon, My Fellow Citizens).

Current/Upcoming Dramas:

• Forbidden Fairytale: He will appear as Jeong-seok.
• Lobby: He is cast as Ma Tae-soo.
• Billion Dollar Heir (TBA): While details are still to be confirmed, he is slated for this project.

Debut Group: Vocalist in BTOB (2012, Cube Entertainment)

Music Career: Member of BTOB and its sub-unit BTOB Blue; performed OSTs, including Who Are You: School 2015.

Acting Debut: Who Are You: School 2015 (2015) – first major acting role as a student, earning acclaim and awards.

Breakthrough: Continued momentum with roles in The Village: Achiara’s Secret (2015), Goblin and Mystic Pop-up Bar.

Lead casting in The Golden Spoon (2022), inspired by a Naver webtoon. His range from teen drama to fantasy and thriller solidified him as a notable young leading man.