Beyond the Bad Boy Persona: 7 Villainous K-Actors Who Are Actually Softies

AKP STAFF

Acting as a convincing villain in K-dramas requires a lot of skill and range, which is why some of the most memorable performances come from actors who are able to embrace their dark side fully. However, what's even more surprising is discovering that many of these actors are actually kind-hearted and sweet in real life, which makes their performances all the more impressive.

So, we've compiled a list of seven K-actors who have portrayed iconic villainous roles on screen but are actually "cinnamon rolls" in real life. These actors prove that sometimes, playing the bad guy can require even more emotional depth and complexity than playing the hero, and their performances are a testament to their talent and versatility.

1. Yoo Jae Myung: Everyone couldn't wait for his downfall in "Itaewon Class" as he took on the role of a wealthy food chain owner who did all he could in his power to make sure Saeroyi could never achieve his dream, but despite taking on some of the most evil characters within a K-drama series, Yoo Jae Myung, in reality, is actually quite the calm and quiet person! On top of that, he's excellent at cleaning too!

2. Jung Woong In: Probably one of the better known actors who has taken on so many evil roles, but fear not, for Jung Woong In is actually quite the cinnamon roll, especially to his daughters!

3. Huh Joon Ho: So he may be a bit intimidating upon first impression, with such strong features. Huh Joon Ho makes the perfect evil in any K-drama series, but you can't judge a book based on its cover, right? Definitely not for Huh Joon Ho; while he may be heartless on-screen, off-screen, he's a completely different person!

4. Kim Jae Wook: For the longest time, Kim Jae Wook played many villain roles, whether it be a crazy stalker or a murderer, but it's completely different from his actual personality! He's such a gentleman to the staff and those around him!

5. Lim Ji Yeon: Known for her iconic role in "The Glory" as the most arrogant, heartless bully Lim Ji Yeon caught the attention of many viewers, however unlike her personality in the drama series, she's actually a sweetheart with such a vibrant personality! Just look at her fan girl over EXO Suho!

6. Oh Man Suk: You remember the evil soldier from "Crash Landing on You?" Well, that was the role played by Oh Man Suk, and boy, did people not like his character at all when the drama aired, but it comes to show you that he played his role perfectly! But it's not just the characters he's played on screen that has caught the attention of viewers, but also how he is behind the scenes! How is he behind the scenes? He's kind, caring, and pretty comedic!

7. Um Ki Joon: Viewers were stunned at just how immersive Um Ki Joon got within his role as the abusive, manipulative husband in "The Penthouse" and were even more amazed by his role in "The Little Woman" as a deceptive politician, but that being said you'll be surprised to learn that Um Ki Joon is actually quite the cinnamon roll off camera! Always smiling and laughing!