7 Korean Actors Who Started As K-Pop Idols -Plus the Dramas They Appeared In
1. IU (Lee Ji-Eun)
In a sea of K-pop girl groups and boy bands, Lee Ji-eun “IU” is a one-woman singing sensation. The latest album “Love Poem” by this 27-year-old singer-songwriter was a major hit, with two of its tracks reaching #1 on the music charts. Her brilliance also shines brightly in the dramas she has starred in, such as The Producers and Hotel Del Luna.
2. Cha Eun-Woo
Cha Eun-Woo had his acting debut in 2015, followed by his debut as a member of the male idol group ASTRO in 2016. He’s well recognized for his endearing roles in Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung and My ID is Gangnam Beauty. Fun fact: When he was in elementary school, he traveled to the Philippines, and some fans are gushing that they’re destined to meet him.
3. BLACKPINK’s Jisoo
BLACKPINK was the first K-pop female group to perform at Coachella, and now they’re working with Selena Gomez on a new song. With the group’s popularity skyrocketing, Jisoo, the group’s lead vocalist, has been confirmed to star (for the first time!) in the upcoming drama Snowdrop, which will be created by the amazing minds of SKY Castle.
4. Bae Suzy
Bae Suzy is one of the most sought-after Hallyu stars in South Korea, dubbed “Nation’s First Love.” This 25-year-old actress is best known for her roles in the movies Uncontrollably Fond and While You Were Sleeping. “Startup,” her next K-drama, will premiere in October 2020. She was the lead vocalist and face of the girl group Miss A before acting.
5. Park Hyung-Sik
If you’re looking for someone who can make you laugh, Park Hyung-Sik is the man for you. He is not only attractive and brilliant, but his roles in Strong Woman Do-Bong Soon and Suits demonstrate his wit and humor. This 28-year-old multi-award-winning actor is also a member of the boy band’s vocalist and visual director. ZE:A.
6. Sandara Park
Sandara, now known as “Dara,” is a successful singer, actor, and host in South Korea after winning ABS-Star CBN’s Circle Quest. She rose to stardom as the lead singer of the K-pop girl group 2NE1 and has since appeared in a number of Korean web dramas as well as cameos in popular TV shows such as My Love From the Star and Happy Ending Once Again
7. Kwon Nara
Not only did she grab the hearts of many viewers with one glimpse, but she also killed it in her acting parts in Suspicious Partner, Doctor Prisoner, and My Minister. She used to have blonde and dyed hair when she was the lead singer of the K-pop girl group Hello Venus!
