If you enjoyed Love and Leashes, a charming Korean rom-com about two colleagues entering a unique contractual relationship, you likely recognized the magnetic performances of K-pop stars Seohyun from Girls’ Generation and Jun from U-KISS. South Korea is renowned for its crossover talent, with many K-pop artists successfully venturing into acting and establishing vibrant careers in film and television. After all, emoting in front of the camera is an essential skill for idols.
Whether you’re eager to explore other projects by your favourite performers or discover new multi-talented artists to support, this curated list offers exciting recommendations for every K-pop fan.
- Lee Min-Ho
Renowned South Korean actor Lee Min-ho first gained fame for his iconic role as Gu Jun-pyo in Boys Over Flowers, based on the beloved manga series. He also garnered significant attention in the action drama City Hunter and made history as the first Korean celebrity to have a wax figure at Madame Tussauds. Beyond acting, Min-ho was part of the K-pop group MY.st, showcasing his rapping talents from 2018 until the group disbanded in 2021.
- Jisoo
Blackpink’s Jisoo is set to captivate audiences this winter with her debut in the K-drama Snowdrop, premiering on December 18. She plays Eun Young-cho, alongside Jung Hae-in as Im Soo-ho, a pair of university students who fall in love against the backdrop of South Korea’s 1987 Democratic Movement. This marks Jisoo’s first lead role, having previously made brief appearances in The Producers (2015) and Arthdal Chronicles (2019).
- Kang Chan-hee
In a captivating period drama centred around royal intrigue, Kang Chan-hee, also known as Chani from SF9, takes on the role of Prince Uiseong, navigating the challenges of royal expectations as a queen attempts to mould her rebellious sons into suitable heirs.
- Kim Se-jeong
Kim Se-jeong stars as Ha-ri in Business Proposal, previously a member of idol groups I.O.I and Gugudan. The series follows Shin Ha-ri, who reluctantly steps in for a friend on a blind date, only to discover her date is Kang Tae-moo, the handsome CEO of her company. Unbeknownst to him, she is his employee, leading to a comedic and chaotic romance. The cast also features other K-pop idols, including Ahn Hyo-shop from One O One and Choi Byung-chan from Victon.
- Seohyun
Seohyun, a member of Girls’ Generation, has ventured into acting with notable performances in stage adaptations like Gone with the Wind and Mamma Mia. She is recognized for her roles in K-dramas Passionate Love and Jinxed at First. Seohyun made her lead debut in the Netflix film Love and Leashes, which earned her a nomination for Best New Actress at the 2022 Baeksang Arts Awards.
This list highlights just a few of the K-pop idols making their mark in the acting world, proving that their talents extend far beyond the stage.
