Top 10 Korean Male Singers Who Stand Out for Their Acting Talents

Following in the footsteps of T.O.P, Yoon Doo Joon also ventured into acting, starting with an action role in the second season of 'IRIS.' Although he had a supporting role, his fight scene with senior actor Lee Bum Soo became one of the standout moments of the series. However, unlike T.O.P, Doo Joon didn’t pursue intense action roles. Instead, he opted for lighter, romantic genres where his acting versatility and confidence truly shined.

Doo Joon gained widespread recognition with his starring roles in the popular dramas 'Let’s Eat 1 & 2' and 'Splash Splash Love.' In 2018, he further solidified his acting career with lead roles in 'Radio Romance' on KBS2 and 'Let’s Eat 3' on tvN. In 2020, after completing his military service, he released his debut solo album. Known as the talented leader of Highlight (formerly BEAST), Yoon Doo Joon continues to be a favorite among fans, especially for his role in the 'Let's Eat' series.

The youngest member of BTOB, born in 1995, Sung Jae has quickly become a name that fans of Korean dramas recognize. He appeared in popular dramas such as 'Reply 1994' and 'Plus Nine Boy,' but it was his role in 'School 2015: Who Are You' that truly showcased his acting skills and brought him to the forefront of K-drama fans. In 2015, he starred alongside Kim So-hyun and Nam Joo-hyuk in this high school drama, playing the lead role.

Sung Jae excelled in portraying a mischievous yet kind-hearted student, delivering a deeply emotional performance that captured the essence of the character’s inner turmoil. His strong performance earned him recognition as a promising young actor with the potential to follow in the footsteps of stars like Kim Woo Bin. In 2016, Yook Sung Jae gained even more attention with his role in the hit drama 'Goblin,' where he starred alongside Gong Yoo and Lee Dong Wook, solidifying his place as a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry.

Similar to Yook Sung Jae, Park Jin-young, also known as Park Jin-young from GOT7, often plays the role of a young student. His acting career began with a role in 'Dream High 2,' but it was his portrayal of a young man in love in 'My Love Eun Dong' that truly cemented his position in the hearts of fans. With his youthful appearance and impressive acting skills, Park Jin-young

In 2021, Jin-young starred in the television drama 'The Devil Judge.' The series quickly became a buzz on social media, with netizens reacting to the on-screen chemistry between Jin-young and Ji Sung, who were praised for their 'bromantic' dynamic. That same year, Jin-young signed an exclusive contract with BH Entertainment, the agency founded by actor Lee Byung Hun, after concluding his contract with JYP, his former agency known for managing top stars like Park Bo Young, Kim Go Eun, and Han Hyo Joo. This move marked a shift in Jin-young's career as he transitioned more into acting.

Originally an idol singer with no prior acting experience, Lee Jung Shin, the youngest member of CNBlue, made an impressive debut in acting with his first role in the 2013 drama 'Father's Daughter.' His natural acting ability quickly won over audiences. Since then, his career in acting has flourished with hit dramas like 'The Blade and Petal,' 'Temptation,' and 'Thank You, My Son.' In 2015, Jung Shin won the 'Rising Star' award at the Drama Fever Awards for his performance in the drama 'Temptation.'

In 2016, Lee Jung Shin further solidified his acting career with a key role in the hit drama 'Cinderella and the Four Knights,' where he captivated audiences with his charming smile and friendly personality. In 2018, Lee Jung Shin enlisted in the military for mandatory service. After his enlistment, he made his return to TV with a brief but memorable appearance in the horror drama 'Voice 2.' Despite his small role, his performance left a lasting impact on viewers.

Chani was once a promising child actor, gaining the affection of many filmmakers with roles in dramas such as 'Queen of Class,' 'Can You Hear My Heart,' 'To The Beautiful You,' and 'Nice Guy.' His acting skills won him the hearts of viewers from a young age. Recently, he has transitioned to a career in music as a member of SF9, though he continues to pursue acting as well. His most recent project was in the hit tvN drama 'Signal,' where he portrayed the younger version of Park Hae Young's brother, delivering a heartfelt performance of a brother full of deep emotions and love for his sibling.

In 2020, alongside the stunning leads of the drama 'True Beauty,' Chani made a special appearance as Jung Se Yeon, the best friend of Lee Su Ho (Cha Eun Woo) and Han Seo Jun (Hwang In Yeop). Despite being a guest role, Chani brought his character to life with a detailed interpretation of the script. His charming looks also made a splash when a video of him drinking water went viral. In the 45-second clip, while the other SF9 members were running around, Chani stood calmly drinking water, which fans found both hilarious and endearing.

Like his fellow ZE:A member Si Wan, Hyung Sik has made a bigger impact in the acting world than in music. With roles in dramas like 'The Heirs,' 'Strong Woman Do Bong Soon,' and 'High Society,' he earned praise for his natural acting and charming presence. Notably, his performance in 'Juror 8' earned him the Best New Actor award at the 39th Korean Film Critics Association Awards, as well as the Most Popular Star award at the 40th Blue Dragon Film Awards.

In 'The Heirs,' even though he played a supporting role, Hyung Sik captured the audience's attention with his portrayal of Myung Soo, a wealthy yet easygoing character who stays out of the power struggles around him. Initially thought to be a minor character, Myung Soo became the pivotal figure connecting the other characters, holding crucial information that ties the storyline together. In 'High Society,' despite the familiar Cinderella story, Hyung Sik's performance revealed new depths to the character's struggles with family opposition and personal insecurities. This role marked a significant step forward in the actor's career beyond his ZE:A roots.

Seo In Guk is often remembered for his acting roles, but many may not know that he was once a popular singer. After winning 'Superstar K' and spending three years pursuing a music career, he transitioned to acting with a breakout role in 'Reply 1997,' one of the most successful TV dramas of its time. His acting was widely praised, and this success led to roles in hit series such as 'Another Parting,' 'High School King of Savvy,' 'The King's Face,' 'Hello Monster,' 'Team 38,' 'The Smile Has Left Your Eyes,' and more recently, 'Doom at Your Service.'

In the beloved drama 'Reply 1997,' which is set in the 90s during the peak of the H.O.T. boy band craze, Seo In Guk played Yoon Yoon-jea, a character who secretly harbors feelings for his childhood friend, Si Won (played by Apink's Jung Eun Ji). The show follows Si Won, a passionate H.O.T. fan, as she dreams of marrying one of the members, leading to a series of events that capture the hearts of both viewers and critics alike.

While initially considered the less standout member of ZE:A in terms of looks, Im Siwan truly proved his acting abilities when he transitioned to the screen. His popularity soared as the public embraced his talent. Im Siwan started his acting career with minor supporting roles in hit TV dramas like 'The Moon Embracing The Sun' and 'Reply 1997.' However, his breakthrough came when he landed the lead role in 'The Attorney,' and his remarkable performance in 'Triangle,' alongside Kim Jae Joong, earned him critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards. Over time, he established himself as both a successful actor and singer, excelling in both fields.

One of the most rewarding projects for Im Siwan was the drama 'Misaeng,' which garnered him several prestigious awards. His portrayal in this series earned him titles such as Best Actor, Asia Special Award, Best New Actor (TV), and Actor Special Jury Prize, among others, solidifying his place as a top-tier actor.

T.O.P, whose real name is Choi Seung Hyun, is a member of the internationally renowned K-pop group Big Bang. Known for his deep, distinctive voice and exceptional rap skills, he has captivated audiences both as a singer and actor. In his acting career, T.O.P is most recognized for his roles in high-intensity action films that require not only strong acting but also the physical endurance to handle challenging and dangerous scenes.

Despite his fame, T.O.P approaches his acting with humility and a constant drive to improve. His dedication has resulted in thrilling, engaging films with compelling storylines. Notable films in his acting career include 'IRIS,' 'Commitment,' and '71: Into the Gunfire.' His role in '71: Into the Fire' earned him several prestigious awards, including recognition at the Blue Dragon Film Awards and Baeksang Arts Awards. T.O.P is also known for his willingness to take on diverse roles and make sacrifices for his craft. In 'Tazza,' he famously shed his suit-and-tie image to reveal his physique, stepping away from his previously more polished appearance.

D.O., whose full name is Do Kyungsoo, was born in 1993 and has captured the hearts of many with his sweet, melodic voice and impressive acting abilities. His performance in acting has completely shifted the public's perception of singers turned actors. Thanks to his talent, D.O. won the prestigious Blue Dragon Film Award and Baeksang Arts Award for Best New Actor in 2017 and 2019.

In the drama 'It’s Okay That’s Love,' D.O. brilliantly portrayed a troubled teen who exists only in the imagination of the male lead. His ability to embody the character's emotions and backstory was so captivating that it left a lasting impact on the audience, with his portrayal of the character's painful past and struggles being both haunting and unforgettable. His award for 'Best New Actor' at the 3rd APAN Star Awards was well-deserved. Following this success, D.O. received numerous offers for other roles, eventually landing leading parts in 'Positive Physique' and 'Pure Love.'