These stars are so good at acting that fans forget they debuted as idols

Lee Jun Young is one of the most talked-about actors in K-drama land right now, and rightfully so. He’s shown impressive range in back-to-back hit dramas, playing a gentle love interest opposite IU in ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ and a charismatic yet menacing school bully in ‘Weak Hero Class 2.’ In his latest role as a health-freak gym manager in the ongoing drama ‘Pump Up the Healthy Love,’ he continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic presence. 

People are stunned to find out that Jun Young is actually a K-pop idol. He debuted with U-KISS in 2014 and then transitioned into acting in 2017. He acts with such conviction that it's hard to believe he started on the music stage. Here are five more idol actors who make us forget their K-pop roots. 

IU

We already knew IU could act, thanks to unforgettable performances in ‘Hotel Del Luna,’ ‘My Mister’ and 'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo.' However, her role in the latest global hit ‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ has elevated her acting career to an entirely new level. Taking on dual roles as Oh Ae Sun and Yang Geum Myeong, IU delivers a masterclass in versatility. Fans commented, “The only thing holding back her acting career is her very successful singing career.”

PARK JIHOON

Though Park Jihoon used to be a child actor, he rose to widespread fame as a member of the popular K-pop boy group Wanna One. He is one of the few idols who receive genuine praise and acclaim for his acting skills. Jihoon's role as the charming yet complex Yeon Si Eun in Weak Hero Class 1 and 2 established him as one of the renowned K-drama actors. ‘Love Revolution,’ ‘Love Song for Illusion,’ ‘At a Distance Spring is Green,’ etc., are some of his other popular works. Fans often say that he “acts with his eyes,” conveying a wealth of emotions and unspoken stories through his gaze alone.

IM SI WAN

Every K-drama fan would agree that Im Si Wan stands out as one of the most versatile idol actors today. Few idol actors can match the range and depth of Im Siwan, who is known for his naturalistic acting style, often portraying vulnerability with quiet intensity. From being a member of ZE:A to portraying nuanced characters in critically acclaimed dramas, Im Siwan embodies the ideal idol-actor. His role in ‘Misaeng’ became a cultural phenomenon in Korea, and he’s continued to impress with dramas and movies like ‘Strangers from Hell,’ ‘Run On,’ ‘Summer Strike,’ ‘Boyhood,’ ‘Squid Game,’ 'Unlocked' and 'Emergency Declaration.'

LEE JUNHO

2PM’s Lee Junho stunned viewers with his portrayal of King Jeongjo in ‘The Red Sleeve,’ which won him the coveted Best Actor award at the 2022 Baeksang Arts Awards. Junho’s ability to channel both authority and tenderness has continued to win hearts with series like ‘Confession,’ ‘Rain or Shine,’ and ‘Good Manager.’ In 2023, the hit drama ‘King the Land’ catapulted Junho to new heights, earning him numerous accolades, including Daesangs, and bringing in a wave of new fans, many of whom were surprised to discover his K-pop roots.

LEE HYERI

Girl’s Day’s Lee Hyeri is more known for her breakout role as the lovable Deoksun in ‘Reply 1988’ than for her K-pop career. The character made her a household name and remains one of the most beloved K-drama portrayals to date. She’s since starred in a variety of roles—from comedic to historical, in ‘My Roommate Is a Gumiho,’ ‘Moonshine,’ ‘May I Help You,’ and ‘Friendly Rivalry,’ proving her acting skills and earning accolades. Hyeri brings a refreshing authenticity and emotional accessibility to her characters, consistently charming audiences.

It’s no wonder many forget these K-drama stars started on music shows. Whether through emotionally gripping performances, genre-spanning roles, or award-winning portrayals, they’ve each proven that true talent transcends the stage.