IU is undoubtedly one of Korea's hottest female celebrities. She has been killing it in the music industry for the past fourteen years, growing and developing from just a singer to a vocalist who produces her own music. She is one of the most successful solo female artists in South Korea. 

But not only that, she excels in other fields in the industry as well. She often appears on variety shows, and she has also been dominating the drama and music industry as well. It's time we check out the lead roles that IU has taken up so far and let's see which one you liked her best in! 

"Kim Pil Sook" in Dream High (January 2011)

This was IU's first lead role in a drama, and it was a strange one. She first appeared as a fat student who had a crush on one of the students and ended up losing a tremendous amount of weight to impress her crush. 

"Lee Soon Shin" in You're the Best, Lee Soon Shin (March 2013)

IU got a big break from this role as she was selected as the main character. This was also a weekend drama, giving exposure to IU's identity to the older audiences as well. 

"CINDY" in Producer (May 2015)

Her role in this drama was a celebrity who basically had no friends, which made her even a colder character. It was quite interesting to see this side of IU in a drama, where she hadn't taken up villainous roles before (though we wouldn't really consider this role villainous..).

"Hae Soo" in Moon Lovers Scarlet Heart Ryeo (August 2016)

Her first time taking in a medieval times drama! Her acting, paired with Lee Junki's accompaniment really set the 2016 drama scene on fire! 

"Lee Jian" in My Mister (March 2018)

This was a fun melodrama to watch as IU turned more of a realist and quite a negative person in this drama, because she just went through so much in her life.

"Jang Man Wol" in Hotel Del Luna (July 2019)

Everyone knows her fantasy role here was something to look forward to. Her "tiki taka" moments with Yeo Jin Goo were even funnier to watch, and her softening up from her cold side is what really made her character charming.

IU has definitely grown not only as a singer but as a celebrity in general who is truly able to excel in all fields of the industry. She's been acting since 2011, and it's great to see her outside of the music box, though we do appreciate that part as well. We hope to see IU soon in another drama very soon -- until then, let us know which IU role your favorite was in the comments below!