When watching K-dramas, have you noticed some actors and actresses possess multitalented skills in singing and dancing? Some of them possess diverse talents due to a surprising reason – they started as idol trainees!
Similar to our favorite K-pop idols, these actors and actresses underwent training in Korean agencies, which explains how they are not just good at acting but also in singing and dancing. Let’s explore a few actors who took this path:
Ahn Hyo Seop
One of the best examples that comes to mind in this context is Ahn Hyo Seop. JYP Entertainment scouted him during his university days, envisioning him as part of the popular K-pop group, GOT7. Although he didn’t make the final cut and debuted with a disbanded project group, he transitioned to acting in 2015. Hyo Seop became one of today’s leading actors, starring in “Dr. Romantic 2” and “Business Proposal.”
Lee Jong Suk
Even our beloved K-drama star, Lee Jong Suk, started his career by training as an idol! Inspired by Rain in “Full House,” he aspired to become an actor but signed with an agency that veered him toward idol training. However, Lee Jong Suk discontinued his training after a few months due to unfulfilled promises about his idol debut. This turned out to be a blessing as he emerged as a top actor, starring in global hit dramas like “While You Were Sleeping,” “I Hear Your Voice,” and “Doctor Stranger!”
Kim Min Jae
Known for his outstanding rap skills, Kim Min Jae trained as a rapper for nearly four years since 2014 under the CJ ENM agency. While training, he debuted as an actor through cameo roles in several K-dramas and even had a small appearance in “THE Producers” and joined the popular rap competition “Show Me The Money 4.” Gaining recognition in the hit medical series “Dr. Romantic,” he has since starred in series like “Best Punch” and “Tempted.” He then transitioned to become the lead actor in “Do You Like Brahms?” and “Dali and Cocky Prince,” earning excellence awards for those roles!
Seol In Ah
Seol In Ah, having trained as an idol for almost four years alongside KARA member Heo Young Ji, transitioned into becoming one of today’s emerging actresses. She gained attention through dramas like “School 2017” and continued her rise in “Special Labor Inspector, Mr. Jo.” Her lead role in the weekend drama “Beautiful Love, Wonderful Life” earned her an Excellence award. Reflecting on her idol trainee days, Seol In Ah expressed that the experience honed her quick-wittedness, an important aspect of acting.
Kim Min Gue
Before becoming everyone’s second lead in “Business Proposal,” Kim Min Gue was an idol trainee alongside current Seventeen members. Despite the short duration, Min Gue showcased his remarkable voice when he made an appearance on “The King of Mask Singer!” He also played supporting roles in “The Rich Son” and “Perfume.” He had his first leading role portraying an idol in ‘The Heavenly Idol’ before enlisting in the military earlier this year.
Park Shin Hye
Initially signed as a vocalist under an agency, Park Shin Hye appeared in a few music videos before realizing her passion for acting. Her debut as the younger version of Choi Ji Woo’s character in “Stairway to Heaven” marked the beginning of her acting career. After portraying various supporting roles, she became a top actress through dramas like “You Were Taken By Me,” “The Heirs,” and “Doctors!“
Yoo In Na
Notably resilient, Yoo In Na trained as an idol for 11 years. Despite being on the verge of debuting in an idol group, she pivoted towards acting after the success of “High Kick 2!” Her decision proved fruitful as she became an exceptional actress, featuring in dramas such as “My Love From The Star” and “You Are The Best,” showcasing her versatility across different genres.
Gong Seung Yeon
Gong Seung Yeon, TWICE’s Jeongyeon’s sister, spent seven years in idol training alongside Red Velvet’s Irene and Seulgi. Her debut in acting in 2012 marked her love for the craft. She garnered attention through supporting roles in “My Lovely Girl,” “Heard It Through the Grapevine,” and “The Master of Revenge.” She won numerous awards with her big screen debut in “Aloners!”
Yes, they really are the definitions of actors and actresses who can do it all. Let’s all support them by watching their shows available on KOCOWA+ with professional English subtitles!
