12 Male Idol-Turned-Actors And Their First Piece Of Acting Work

Acting is one of the many routes that idols turn to after debuting. Some take it as a second chapter in their career after leaving their lives as idols, while some continue to make music alongside acting. Here are 12 male idol-turned-actors and their first ever foray into acting.

1. Im Siwan (ZE:A)

The star was once part of 2nd generation idol group, ZE:A. His first drama was The Moon That Embraces The Sun, where he played the scholarly brother to the queen.

2. Jinyoung (GOT7)

Jinyoung was an actor before he was an idol. He actually made his formal debut through Dream High 2, before debuting in JJ Project and GOT7.

3. L (Infinite)

His handsome visuals make him perfect for romcoms. He had a supporting role in Shut Up Flower Boy Band.

4. Yoon Doojoon (HIGHLIGHT)

IRIS 2 was his first K-Drama, although he acted in sitcoms before that.

5. Lee Junyoung (U-KISS)

He acted in Avengers Social Club in 2017. Lee Junyoung joined U-KISS late and fulfilled his position as the new maknae, despite the group not doing too well at that stage.

6. Ok Taecyeon (2PM)

He played the lovable 2nd male lead in Cinderella’s Stepsister, ready to lay his life down for his noona.

7. Lee Junho (2PM)

Most of 2PM went into acting after their careers as singers stabilized. Junho acted in 2016’s Memory.

8. Rowoon (SF9)

We’re moving into the 3rd generation now with Rowoon! His first role was a supporting one in School 2017.

9. Yook Sungjae (BTOB)

He recently impressed in The Golden Spoon after returning from the military. His first main role was in Plus Nine Boys, although he had a small cameo in Reply 1997.

10. Lee Joon (MBLAQ)

One of the OG idol-turned-actors, Lee Joon starred in Junglefish 2 and received rave reviews.

11. Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO)

Cha Eunwoo is one of the highest sought after actor-idols now. His first role was as idol star MJ in The Best Hit.

12. D.O. (EXO)

D.O. went on to star in many hard-hitting dramas and movies, but his first role was in It’s Okay, It’s Love.

We’ve listed 12 here, but of course, the list is endless!