Singing, dancing and acting in popular Korean dramas—these multitalented idols are everywhere, and many of them have starred in your favourite recent hit shows
K-pop stars taking a segue into acting is nothing new, and there’s been a long line of music idols carving out successful careers as actors and actresses, starting with original oppa Rain and his memorable turn in Full House and other dramas and films.
While some dip their acting fingers into just one or two shows before returning to their thriving day jobs in music—such as BTS’ V—others, like Miss A’s Bae Suzy, dove into red-hot acting careers and never looked back. Then, there are unicorns like IU, who can juggle being an amazing actress and releasing new musical works simultaneously.
There’s no denying the fact that these K-popsters bring their fan following to whichever drama they’re starring in, giving these shows a big ratings boost. Here are 20 K-pop idols who have headlined the K-dramas we love.
(Related: 11 Korean Dramas With the Highest Ratings in 2021: Which Haven’t You Watched?)
1. Ok Taecyeon, from 2PM
Better known as pop group 2PM’s rapper Taecyeon, Ok starred in popular 2011 idol drama Dream High, which launched the acting careers of a bunch of other K-popsters. He’s since appeared in many other dramas—such as Bring It On, Ghost—and is thrilling audiences in current ratings hit Vincenzo.
(Related: Vincenzo: Design Details and Easter Eggs That You Might Have Missed)