Top 10 Must-Watch K-Dramas Featuring K-Pop Stars

K-dramas and K-pop have surged in global popularity, amassing a diverse and enthusiastic audience. The intersection between these two cultural phenomena is evident as many K-pop idols venture into acting, showcasing their talents in various K-dramas. This crossover has not only enriched the acting realm but has also established many idols as multifaceted entertainers.

With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, international viewers now have easy access to a vast library of K-dramas and films, which has only amplified their appeal. The trend of K-pop stars transitioning to acting is not new; numerous idols have successfully made the leap, demonstrating diverse acting skills alongside their musical careers. The following list highlights must-watch K-dramas featuring K-pop legends, combining gripping narratives with captivating performances.

10 Full House (2004)

Rain/Jung Ji-hoon

This iconic romantic comedy features Jung Ji-hoon, widely known as Rain, in a delightful portrayal that has become a classic in K-drama history. The story unfolds around Han Ji-eun (Song Hye-kyo), whose friends sell her home, Full House, without her knowledge, leading her to cross paths with the wealthy actor Lee Young-jae (Rain).Their forced cohabitation, filled with amusing disagreements, eventually blossoms into a heartwarming romance.

Rain, primarily recognized for his musical talents, gained significant fame from this role following his acting debut in the earlier 2003 series, Sang Doo! Let’s Go to School. Since then, he has continued to captivate audiences both as a singer and an actor in K-dramas and films.

9 Save The Last Dance For Me (2004)

Eugene/Kim Yoo-jin

Starring Kim Yoo-jin, or Eugene, this K-drama tells a poignant love story that explores the complexities of memory and recovery. After Hyun-woo (Ji Sung), a wealthy heir, suffers memory loss from an accident, he is nurtured back to health by Eun-soo (Eugene), leading to a deeply emotional bond amidst the trials of romance.

Eugene, a former S. E.S.member, transitioned from a successful music career to acting, making her mark in series like The Penthouse: War in Life after a notable debut in Loving You.

8 Princess Hours (2006)

Yoon Eun-hye

Princess Hours became a cultural phenomenon, introducing viewers to Yoon Eun-hye as Shin Chae-kyeon, an ordinary girl who unexpectedly becomes engaged to Crown Prince Lee Shin (Ju Ji-hoon).The charming escapade of royal life against a backdrop of love and rivalry left a lasting impression and led to a successful spin-off series.

Yoon’s career initially began with the girl group Baby Vox, and her transition to acting was marked by her performance in this series, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

7 It’s Okay, That’s Love (2014)

DO/Doh Kyung-soo

This compelling drama features D. O.from the popular group Exo in a youthful portrayal that intertwines love with mental health themes. His character, Han Kang-woo, aspires to be a successful author while navigating the complexities of a relationship between psychiatrist Ji Hae-soo (Gong Hyo-jin) and troubled author Jang Jae-yeol (Zo In-sung).

Since his debut in 2012 as a member of Exo, D. O.has showcased his acting prowess in multiple projects, with 100 Days My Prince marking a significant milestone in his career.

6 Doctor Cha (2023)

Uhm Jung-Hwa

Uhm Jung-hwa stars in this endearing medical drama as Cha Jeong-suk, a woman who re-enter the world of medicine after many years as a homemaker. The series portrays the challenges she faces in balancing her old life with her aspirations while navigating personal struggles, making it a relatable viewing experience.

Dubbed the “Korean Madonna, ”Uhm has left her mark in both music and acting. With a career beginning in the 1990s, her talent has earned her numerous accolades across the entertainment industry.

5 Descendants Of The Sun (2016)

Onew/Lee Jin-ki

Descendants of the Sun captivated audiences with its powerful narrative about love and duty set against military and medical backdrops. Onew, known for his role in Shinee, plays Lee Chi-hoon, a passionate medical resident who contributes to the overarching themes of sacrifice and heroism.

His debut has allowed him to showcase his dual talents as he balances a successful music career with his rising acting endeavors.

4 Hotel Del Luna (2019)

IU/Lee Ji-eun

The ethereal K-drama Hotel Del Luna casts IU as the enigmatic owner of a hotel exclusively for spirits. Her character, Jang Man-wol, grapples with her past while managing the hotel and forming an unexpected bond with Koo Chan-sung (Yeo Jin-goo), the hotel’s new manager.

IU has consistently proven her range as both a vocalist and an actress since her debut in 2008, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry.

3 King The Land (2023)

Im Yoon-ah and Lee Jun-ho

This romantic comedy showcases the chemistry between Im Yoon-ah and Lee Jun-ho as they navigate the complexities of love and ambition in a high-stakes business environment. The series cleverly explores their evolving dynamic against the backdrop of hotel management and family legacies.

Yoon-ah, recognized for her work with Girls’ Generation, and Lee Jun-ho from 2PM exhibit their versatility, successfully transitioning from music to acting.

2 Squid Game (2021-Present)

T. O.P/Choi Seung-hyun

The groundbreaking survival thriller Squid Game captured global attention, becoming Netflix’s definitive hit. Choi Seung-hyun, better known as T. O.P, joins the ensemble cast as a competitor drawn into the harrowing games. His character adds depth to this intense narrative that critiques society’s inequalities.

Before gaining fame through Squid Game, T. O.P was an underground rapper and member of BigBang, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His return to acting marks an important chapter in his career following previous controversies.

1 Dream High (2011) And Dream High 2 (2012)

Bae Suzy/Bae Su-ji, Taecyeon/Ok Taec-yeon, IU/Lee Ji-eun, Etc.

The Dream High series portrays the journeys of aspiring K-pop idols navigating high school challenges. Featuring notable K-pop stars such as Bae Suzy and Taecyeon, the series effectively captures the struggles and dreams of youth in the K-pop industry. The ensemble cast also includes IU, highlighting the intersections between music and acting.

In addition to the primary cast’s musical talents, J. Y.Park of JYP Entertainment plays a teacher, further reinforcing the show’s connection to the vibrant K-pop landscape.

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