From stage to screen, here are must-watch K-dramas led by K-pop idols!
The Korean entertainment industry has gifted the world not only with infectious K-pop tunes but also with compelling K-dramas. It’s not uncommon to see idols transitioning into acting, bringing their charisma and talent from the stage to the screen.
Here are ten K-dramas led by K-pop idols that you should definitely add to your watchlist.
1. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
Stars: IU, Baekhyun (EXO), Seohyun (SNSD)
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is a historical drama that tells the story of a 21st-century woman who travels back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty, where she finds herself entangled in the royal family’s lives.
IU plays the lead role of Hae Soo, while Baekhyun and Seohyun play supporting roles as royal prince and princess.
The drama is known for its star-studded cast and intense romantic plotlines. It achieved significant viewership and global popularity.
2. Dream High
Stars: Ok Taecyeon (2PM), Jang Wooyoung (2PM), Bae Suzy (former miss A), IU, Eunjung (T-Ara), JYP
Dream High is a classic K-drama featuring a cast packed with K-pop talent. The story centered around the lives of students at Kirin High School who aspire to become successful idols.
The series showcases the inspiring journey of these young talents as they overcome obstacles and chase their dreams. The whole cast did not only showcase their acting skills but also their singing and dancing abilities.
With a cast full of K-pop idols, including Suzy, Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Eunjung, and IU, as well as the iconic JYP and then-rising actor Kim Soo Hyun, the series offers authenticity and inspiration to many young viewers.
3. Reply 1997
Stars: Jung Eun Ji (Apink), Hoya (former Infinite), Eun Jiwon (Sechs Kies)
Set in the 1990s, Reply 1997 follows a group of friends who are obsessed with first-generation K-Pop idol groups, H.O.T. and Sechs Kies. The drama explores their lives from adolescence to adulthood, highlighting the impact of extreme fan culture on their friendships and relationships.
Both Jung Eun Ji and Hoya deliver authentic performances that resonate with anyone who has ever been a passionate music fan.
What made this drama even more interesting (and hilarious, at the same time) is the casting of Eun Jiwon, an actual member of Sechs Kies, who played the role of high school student Do Hak-chan.
Jung Eun Ji’s performance as the fangirl protagonist was widely praised for its authenticity. Her work in the drama earned her the prestigious Best New Actress at the 49th Baeksang Arts Awards.
Also Read: Empowering Women: Celebrating Kdrama Female Leads
4. The Red Sleeve
Stars: Lee Junho (2PM)
The Red Sleeve is a historical drama based on a novel of the same name. It tells the love story between King Jeongjo and his royal concubine Uibin Sung. Lee Junho’s portrayal of King Jeongjo garnered critical acclaim, demonstrating his impressive acting skills and deep emotional range.
Through The Red Sleeve, Lee Junho became the first idol-actor to win the prestigious Best Actor for Television at the 58th Baeksang Arts Awards, as well as the Grand Prize (Daesang) for Actor of the Year at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards.
5. King the Land
Stars: Im Yoona (SNSD), Lee Junho (2PM)
Im Yoona and Lee Junho headline this romantic comedy about an heiress and a diligent hotelier whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways.
The chemistry between Im Yoona and Lee Junho was a highlight of the series, making it a delightful watch for fans of both K-Pop and K-Dramas.
Also Read: Netflix Reveals Cast for Superhero Drama “Cashero”
6. It’s Okay, That’s Love
Stars: D.O. (EXO)
It’s Okay, That’s Love explores the complexities of mental health through the relationship between a psychiatrist and a mystery writer.
D.O. plays Han Kang-woo, a high school student with a mysterious connection to the main character (played by Zo In Sung). The drama tackles mental health issues with sensitivity and depth, and D.O.’s performance was praised for its maturity and subtlety.
7. Business Proposal
Stars: Kim Sejeong (former IOI, gugudan)
Business Proposal is a romantic comedy about a woman (played by Kim Sejeong) who goes on a blind date in place of her friend, only to discover that her date is her company’s CEO (played by Ahn Hyeo Seop).
Kim Sejeong’s charming and lively portrayal of the lead character won the hearts of many viewers, making the drama a hit.
8. True Beauty
Stars: Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO)
True Beauty is a high school romance that revolves around a girl who uses makeup to transform her appearance and boost her self-esteem. The series explores themes of beauty, self-acceptance, and teenage angst.
Cha Eunwoo plays Lee Su-ho, the handsome and intelligent love interest. His performance and the series’ relatable storylines have garnered a massive following.
Also Read: Pop Review: ASTRO Cha Eunwoo Solo Album Debut “ENTITY”
9. Hwarang
Stars: V (BTS), Park Hyung Sik (ZE:A), Choi Min Ho (SHINee)
Hwarang is a historical drama about an elite group of young men known as Hwarang during the Silla Dynasty.
Led by Park Seo Joon and Go Ara, the show also boasts an ensemble cast of K-Pop idols, including V, Park Hyung Sik, and Choi Min Ho, who bring their charisma and talent to this historical, coming-of-age series.
10. Twenty-Five, Twenty-One
Stars: Bona (WJSN)
Twenty-Five, Twenty-One is a coming-of-age drama that tells the story of youth, friendship, and love. Bona’s portrayal of a determined young athlete navigating the challenges of life and love has been widely praised for its authenticity and warmth.
Her acting captures the essence of growing up and finding oneself, which resonated with many viewers.
Also Read: Webtoon Inspired Kdrama “Jeongnyeon” Stars Kim Tae Ri
These K-dramas highlight the seamless transition of K-pop idols into acting, where they continue to captivate audiences with their talent and versatility.
Whether you’re a fan of romance, youth, or historical shows, there’s a K-drama led by a K-pop idol that will undoubtedly entertain and move you. Happy watching!
Sources: SBS, KBS2, TvN, MBC TV, Soompi, Metro.Style
