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.

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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.

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3. L (Infinite)

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

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4. Yoon Doojoon (HIGHLIGHT)

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

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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.

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6. Ok Taecyeon (2PM)

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

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7. Lee Junho (2PM)

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

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8. Rowoon (SF9)

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

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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.

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10. Lee Joon (MBLAQ)

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

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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.

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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.

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