Top 5 Must-Watch K-Dramas Featuring Hwang In-youp
Hwang In-youp made his acting debut in 2018 with the Naver web series W.H.Y, and he has since demonstrated his talent in a variety of K-dramas. Prior to his foray into acting, he was well-known as a model, previously representing YG Entertainment.
In addition to his acting and modeling career, he is also recognized as a talented singer under KeyEast Entertainment. He lent his voice to the original soundtrack of True Beauty with the popular track It Starts with You, which received widespread acclaim.
Hwang In-youp showcases his versatility as an actor, taking on roles that range from shy, introverted characters to bullies. His ability to captivate audiences was especially evident in a particular drama where he donned a female disguise, leading fans to become enamored with his performance.
Top K-Dramas Featuring Hwang In-youp, Including Family By Choice
If you’re a fan of Hwang In-youp, here are some essential K-dramas to check out:
- True Beauty
- The Tale of Nokdu
- 18 Again
- The Sound of Magic
- Family by Choice
1) True Beauty
True Beauty is a pivotal drama in Hwang In-youp’s career. Released in 2020, this series consists of 16 episodes and is adapted from a webtoon of the same name. While it falls under the romantic comedy genre, the series also addresses serious issues like beauty standards and bullying.
Centered around a teenage love triangle, the story features Lim Ju-gyeong, portrayed by Moon Ga-young, who faces bullying due to her appearance. After transferring schools, she learns makeup techniques via YouTube and transforms into a beautiful classmate.
Hwang In-youp plays Han Seo-jun, a back-bencher whose gentle side wins fans over. The plot intensifies as both Seo-jun and his friend Su-ho develop feelings for Lim Ju-gyeong, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they anticipate the love story’s outcome.
Available on: Netflix
2) The Tale of Nokdu
The Tale of Nokdu stands out as another significant work in Hwang’s repertoire. While he does not have the leading role, his character is essential for advancing the narrative. Released in 2019 and based on a webtoon by Hye Jin-yang, this historical drama spans 32 episodes set during the Joseon period.
The story follows Nokdu, played by Jang Dong-yoon, who lives on a secluded island with his father. Due to certain circumstances, he is prevented from venturing outside, but he eventually finds his way to a village of widows. To escape detection, he disguises himself as a woman.
Hwang In-youp portrays Cha Yool-moo, Nokdu’s companion, who also takes on a female disguise. His character is beautifully portrayed, showcasing loyalty and skill as a swordsman.
Available on: Netflix, Apple TV
3) 18 Again
Hwang In-youp makes a special appearance in the 2020 drama 18 Again, an adaptation of the Hollywood film 17 Again. Yoon Sang-hyu portrays Hong Dae-young, a 37-year-old husband and father who finds his marriage lacking excitement. As a result, his wife, Jung Da-jung (played by Kim Ha-neul), files for divorce.
Dae-young magically reverts to his 18-year-old self, now played by Lee Do-hyun, who is a standout basketball player. He navigates high school alongside his teenage son, Hong Si-woo (Ryewoon). Hwang In-youp appears as Goo Ja-sung, a high school student who tends to bully his peers, but the storyline also reveals a more compassionate side to his character.
Available on: Netflix, Prime Video
4) The Sound of Magic
The Sound of Magic is a romantic mystery drama where Hwang In-youp plays the leading male role. Based on the Naver webtoon Annarasumanara by Ha Il-Kwon, this drama was released in 2022 and consists of six episodes.
The plot follows Yoon A-yi, played by Choi Sung-eun, a high school student abandoned by her parents due to financial struggles. To support herself, she secures a part-time job. Hwang In-youp portrays Na Il-Deung, a fellow student who competes with A-yi academically and later falls in love with her. A twist occurs when A-yi encounters a magician in an amusement park.
Available on: Netflix
5) Family By Choice
The newest addition to Hwang In-youp’s television credits is Family By Choice, which premiered on October 9, 2024, and will consist of 16 episodes, concluding on November 27. This series is a Korean adaptation of the beloved Chinese drama Go Ahead.
The series tells the story of three children dealing with the scars of their past. Hwang In-youp plays Kim San-ha, a young man haunted by his sister’s tragic accident in childhood. He forms a close bond with Yoon Juwon (Jung Chaeyeon), who lives nearby, considering her his sister.
Another character, Kang Haejun (Bae Hyun Sung), also raised as a sibling, feels neglected when San-ha and Juwon reconnect with their biological families. As adults, tensions arise when San-ha begins to develop romantic feelings for Juwon, complicating their sibling-like bond. Hwang In-youp’s portrayal of the introverted and conflicted San-ha adds emotional depth to the narrative.
Available on: Viki
In addition to the highlighted dramas, fans can also watch W.H.Y on YouTube and look out for his guest appearance in Dear X, set to premiere in 2025.
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