In Korea’s ever-glamorous entertainment scene, the line between striking a pose and nailing a dramatic monologue is basically nonexistent. And who better to prove it than the country’s top models-turned-actors? These runway veterans didn’t just serve looks — they served range. One minute they’re working haute couture under flashing lights, the next they’re making us cry, swoon, or scream (in a good way) on screen.

Whether they started out as brooding teen heartthrobs, walked into action hero status, or charmed their way into rom-com royalty, these model-actors are showing us that being ridiculously good-looking is just the opening scene — the real plot twist is how talented they actually are.

Modeling Debut:
Lee Jong-suk began his career as a model in 2005 at the age of 15. He became the youngest male model to walk the runway at Seoul Collection, Korea’s top fashion show. His tall, slender frame and distinct features quickly made him a standout.

Acting Transition:
After training briefly to become an idol, Jong-suk pivoted to acting and made his official debut in 2010 with the drama “Prosecutor Princess.” He gained mainstream attention shortly after in “Secret Garden” (2010–2011) as a quirky yet charming supporting character. His big break came with “School 2013” and “I Can Hear Your Voice”, both hits that showcased his emotional range.

Signature Works:

• Pinocchio (2014)
• W (2016)
• Big Mouth (2022)

Lee Jong-suk is widely admired for his ability to navigate between romance, fantasy, legal thrillers, and melodramas, earning accolades and massive international fan support. He is often admired for his ability to choose projects that are interesting and showcase his versatile acting ability. He is currently starring in tvN’s “Law and the City“ (2025) also available in Disney+ and Viki.

Modeling Debut:
Kim Woo-bin entered the fashion world in 2008, initially under his real name, Kim Hyun-joong. He walked in major fashion shows and appeared in numerous editorial spreads, becoming one of Korea’s most in-demand runway and commercial models by the early 2010s.

Acting Transition:
His acting career kicked off with small roles in dramas like “White Christmas” (2011) and “A Gentleman’s Dignity” (2012). He rose to stardom with “School 2013”, where his strong presence and edgy charisma set him apart. His role as the misunderstood bad boy in “The Heirs” (2013) cemented his status as a leading man.

Signature Works:

• The Heirs (2013)
• Uncontrollably Fond (2016)
• Black Knight (2023)

Despite a major health setback in 2017 when he was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer, Kim Woo-bin made a powerful comeback. His resilience and screen magnetism have made him one of Korea’s most respected stars. His latest project, “Genie, Make a Wish“ (2025) with Bae Suzy is expected to be released on Netflix later this year.

Modeling Debut:
Nam Joo-hyuk started modeling in 2013, after winning a modeling contest hosted by K-Plus (now YG KPlus). His early fashion campaigns included collaborations with brands like SONGZIO and collections for Seoul Fashion Week.

Acting Transition:
He began acting in 2014 through the teen drama “The Idle Mermaid.” But his breakout came in 2015 with the hit drama “Who Are You: School 2015.” His charm, emotional depth, and tall model-like proportions made him a fast favorite for romantic leads.

Signature Works:

• Start-Up (2020)
• Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)
• The Great Battle (2018)

Nam Joo-hyuk has steadily built a reputation as one of the most relatable male leads of his generation, portraying youthful hope, heartbreak, and resilience. He’s also a frequent face in brand campaigns and fashion magazines.

Modeling Debut:
Before modeling, Ahn Bo-hyun was a trained boxer and even competed in national tournaments. He transitioned into modeling in 2007, walking runways and appearing in editorials for streetwear and casual fashion labels.

Acting Transition:
After years of small roles, Ahn caught the industry’s eye with his breakout performance as the villainous Jang Geun-won in “Itaewon Class” (2020). His chilling portrayal drew praise and opened doors to more layered roles. He followed this with successful lead roles in “Military Prosecutor Doberman” and “Yumi’s Cells.”

Signature Works:

• Itaewon Class (2020)
• Yumi’s Cells (2021–2022)
• See You in My 19th Life (2023)

Ahn Bo-hyun’s transition is a testament to perseverance. From years in the shadows to becoming a sought-after male lead, his career reflects not just looks, but grit and talent.

Modeling Debut:
Kim Young-kwang began his modeling career in the mid-2000s and quickly gained recognition for his tall height (over 6’2″) and expressive features. He walked for top designers like Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood and was one of the first Asian models to walk for Dior Homme in Paris.

Acting Transition:
He made his acting debut with small roles in the late 2000s but first garnered attention with “Love Rain” (2012) and “Good Doctor” (2013). As he transitioned into more prominent roles, he showcased a unique ability to balance gentle warmth and emotional complexity.

Signature Works:

• On Your Wedding Day (2018 – film)
• Call It Love (2023 – Disney+)
• Somebody (2022 – Netflix)

Young-kwang has proven adept in both romantic and psychological thriller genres, showing range and depth that go beyond his model looks. His performances often carry a quiet intensity that draws viewers in.

Modeling Debut:
Jang Ki-yong began modeling in 2012 after being inspired by fashion week posters. He was scouted by YG KPlus and made his debut in Seoul Fashion Week. His tall, commanding presence made him a go-to name for menswear collections and magazine spreads.

Acting Transition:
He transitioned to acting through a cameo in “It’s Okay, That’s Love” (2014) and was praised for his scene-stealing presence. His first major recognition came with “My Mister” (2018) and “Come and Hug Me” (2018), where he proved himself as a sensitive and emotionally nuanced lead.

Signature Works:

• Come and Hug Me (2018)
• My Roommate is a Gumiho (2021)
• Now, We Are Breaking Up (2021)

Jang Ki-yong’s momentum was briefly halted by his military service in 2022, but he remains one of the most promising actors of his generation, admired for his melancholic aura and compelling performances.

Modeling Debut:
Cha Seung-won started as a fashion model in the early 1990s, at a time when male models had few paths to stardom. He built a name as a charismatic and edgy presence on the runway and in commercials.

Acting Transition:
His film debut came in 1997, and he quickly rose to fame with a string of successful comedies and action films. By the 2000s, he had reinvented himself as a versatile actor who could dominate both box office comedies and critically acclaimed dramas.

Signature Works:

• The Greatest Love (2011)
• You’re All Surrounded (2014)
• Our Blues (2022)

Cha Seung-won’s long career is a testament to reinvention. Known for his wit, sharp comedic timing, and magnetic screen presence, he has become a household name and an icon among both younger and veteran stars.

Modeling Debut:
Byun Woo-seok began his career as a model in 2014, participating in major fashion campaigns and magazine shoots. His androgynous, soft yet striking look gave him a distinct image in the fashion world.

Acting Transition:
He began acting in supporting roles around 2016, including appearances in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo and Search: WWW. His breakthrough came in 2020 with the youth drama “Record of Youth,” followed by a wave of attention in “20th Century Girl” (2022) and an explosive rise with “Lovely Runner” (2024).

Signature Works:

• 20th Century Girl (2022 – Netflix film)
• Moonshine (2021–2022)
• Lovely Runner (2024)

Byun Woo-seok’s rise has been meteoric, especially following Lovely Runner, which catapulted him into global fandom. With charm, sincerity, and a deep connection to his characters, he’s poised to lead the next generation of Hallyu stars.

Modeling Debut:
Lee Soo-hyuk began his modeling career in 2006 and quickly became known for his gothic, otherworldly look — setting him apart from more conventional runway models. He became a favorite among avant-garde designers and appeared in editorials for GQ Korea, Dazed, and Vogue.

Acting Transition:
He made his acting debut in 2011 through the drama White Christmas, alongside fellow model-actors like Kim Woo-bin and Sung Joon. His signature deep voice and intense visuals made him an ideal fit for fantasy and supernatural dramas. He gained popularity with “The Scholar Who Walks the Night” (2015) and solidified his presence with “Doom at Your Service” (2021).

Signature Works:

• The Scholar Who Walks the Night (2015)
• Doom at Your Service (2021)
• Tomorrow (2022)

Lee Soo-hyuk has built a career around genre pieces that capitalize on his enigmatic screen presence, maintaining a devoted fanbase and fashion icon status. He is currently starring in his first leading role in the drama S Line, a romantic comedy that follows the tangled relationships of former lovers.

Modeling Debut:
Ahn Jae-hyun started as a fashion model in 2009, quickly gaining attention for his delicate, boyish features and being featured in top editorial spreads, CFs, and runway shows.

Acting Transition:
He made a splash in “You Who Came from the Stars” (2013) as Jun Ji-hyun’s quirky younger brother, followed by a lead role in “Blood” (2015). His popularity surged among international fans with “Cinderella and Four Knights” (2016). However, acting critiques about his limited emotional range and later personal controversies (his divorce from actress Ku Hye-sun) cooled public enthusiasm.

Signature Works:

• You Who Came from the Stars (2013)
• Cinderella and Four Knights (2016)
• The Real Has Come! (2023)

Despite setbacks, Ahn Jae-hyun remains active in variety shows and dramas, with loyal fans still supporting his return to more grounded roles.

Modeling Debut:
Sung Joon entered the modeling world in 2008, known for his angular features and tall physique. He became close with model peers Kim Woo-bin, Lee Soo-hyuk, and Hong Jong-hyun, often appearing alongside them in fashion and media.

Acting Transition:
His acting debut came in “White Christmas” (2011) and he quickly moved to leading man status in the romantic comedy “I Need Romance 3” (2014). He’s often cast in understated, emotionally complex roles, giving him a reputation for naturalistic, indie-style acting.

Signature Works:

• I Need Romance 3 (2014)
• High Society (2015)
• Madame Antoine (2016)

Sung Joon keeps a low profile but continues to select unique roles that suit his quiet charisma, often flying under the radar but retaining respect in the industry.

Modeling Debut:
Hong Jong-hyun began modeling in 2007 and appeared in various print campaigns and runway shows throughout the late 2000s. His subtle charisma and masculine visuals made him a reliable face in the fashion scene.

Acting Transition:
His breakout came in dramas like “Her Lovely Heels” (2014) and “Scarlet Heart Ryeo” (2016), where he played complex supporting characters. He’s especially known for holding his own in ensemble casts and weekend family dramas like “Mother of Mine” (2019).

Signature Works:

• Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
• Mother of Mine (2019)
• The King in Love (2017)

Though not as high-profile as others, Hong Jong-hyun continues to earn solid roles in both romantic and historical dramas, offering reliability and understated screen presence.

These stars exemplify how modeling can be a springboard — not a limit — in Korea’s entertainment industry. Whether on the runway or in a hit drama, they command attention. As they continue to push boundaries, these once-models-now-actors are proving that fashion and acting aren’t parallel tracks — they’re a runway to stardom.