Imagine walking into class and finding a K-drama star or idol as your professor. You’d never miss a lecture. The world of K-entertainment isn’t just about chart-topping songs and hit dramas. Many stars are also shaping the next generation of talent in classrooms. From acting to singing and dancing, these talented artists are sharing their real-world expertise as university professors, proving their influence extends far beyond the stage and screen.
Here are some K-celebrities who have contributed to academia as professors at prestigious Korean universities.
Yoo Yeon Seok is making headlines following his recent appointment as a special professor at Sejong University’s Film and Arts Department. He will directly instruct the senior-year course “Multimedia Performance” in the acting major during the first semester of 2026. His real-world experience in the entertainment industry will give students valuable insights into both traditional and contemporary performance techniques.
Having the King of K-pop as your professor may sound unreal, but it is a reality for students at KAIST. In 2024, G-Dragon was appointed as a visiting professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department, where he conducts special lectures on leadership for undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, Professor Kwon Ji-yong also represents KAIST as its global ambassador, helping strengthen its global presence.
Yoo Ji Tae, known for his depth as an actor, has been serving as a full-time professor in the Department of Media Acting at Konkuk University since 2023. He teaches ‘Scene Acting 1’ and co-teaches courses such as ‘Graduation Film Workshop 1’ and ‘Graduation Theatre Project,’ helping students refine their acting skills while guiding them through the process of creating full-scale productions.
Renowned dancer and choreographer Aiki brings her industry experience to the classroom as a professor at Sungshin Women’s University’s Department of Dance Art. She teaches ‘Dance workshop training 1’ & ‘Major dance practice 5 class’ while also hosting special dance classes and lectures for non-major students at the university.
Renowned for her powerful vocals, ALi is also nurturing aspiring musicians at Hongik University. As a full-time professor in the School of Performing Arts (Contemporary Music major), she teaches a vocal ensemble course. Her guidance helps students develop both technical vocal skills and stage presence.
Veteran actress Bae Jong Ok combines academic excellence with industry experience. With a doctorate from Korea University, she has been serving as a visiting professor at Chung-Ang University since 2003, where she teaches ‘Theater and Film Studies.’ She offers students both theoretical knowledge and practical insights drawn from her extensive acting career.
Renowned South Korean actress Go Hyun Jung returned to her alma mater, Dongguk University, as an adjunct professor in 2014. She teaches acting in the undergraduate program within the Department of Theatre, sharing her extensive experience with the students and shaping the future of the acting industry.
Seol Kyung Gu, best known for his work in the Korean film industry, was appointed as an adjunct professor at his alma mater, Hanyang University’s College of Performing Arts, in 2014. He personally selected students for his class through an audition process and uses his hands-on industry experience to teach them ‘real acting.’
By stepping into academic roles, these South Korean stars are not only sharing their expertise but also actively shaping the future of Korea’s entertainment industry. The presence of such industry professionals in universities ensures that the next generation is trained by the very best.
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