South Korea's entertainment industry has long been revered for its talented artists who excel in various fields, from music and dance to acting and beyond. South Korean actors are making their mark with their impeccable performances. Many people may not know that several of these celebrated actors were once idol trainees before transitioning to the world of acting.

Let’s look at seven male K-drama actors who are former idol trainees and have now become household names in the acting industry.

1. Park Bo-Gum

Park Bo-Gum is a perfect example of an actor who successfully transitioned from the world of K-pop training to acting. Before his acting breakthrough, he was an idol trainee. However, it was his role in the top-rated drama series "Reply 1988" that catapulted him to stardom, showcasing his exceptional talent as an actor.

2. Lee Jong-Suk

Lee Jong-Suk, renowned for his striking looks and charismatic presence, revealed that he was a trainee at SM Entertainment for about three months in order to debut as a rapper but gave up being a trainee to take up acting in all seriousness. With his performances in dramas like "Pinocchio" and "W," Lee Jong-Suk has become a household name.

3. Seo In-Guk

Seo In-Guk rose to fame after winning the reality show "Superstar K." While initially focused on a music career, his versatility and natural acting abilities garnered attention, leading him to pursue acting seriously. He made his acting debut in the drama "Love Rain" and went on to showcase his talent in dramas like "Reply 1997" and "Master's Sun."

4. Kim Min-kyu

“The Heavenly Idol” and “Business Proposal’s” star Kim Min-kyu was once an idol trainee. During an interview on MBC's Radio Star, he shared that before pursuing acting, he spent around a month training as a K-pop trainee. The group he trained with before their debut was SEVENTEEN. He also appeared on the reality TV show “I Can See Your Voice.”

5. Ahn Hyo-seop

Ahn Hyo-seop, who played the role of the main character in the popular K-drama "Business Proposal," was once a trainee under JYP Entertainment. He trained for about three years and almost debuted along with GOT7 but failed due to his height and skills. Instead, he found his passion for acting. He starred in dramas like "Dr. Romantic 3," "Lovers of the Red Sky," "Abyss," etc.

6. Kim Min-Jae

Kim Min-Jae used to be a popular idol trainee under CJ E&M, and he trained for about four years. He was a first-generation trainee of the company who specialized in rap and appeared as a rapper in the agency's music performances until 2014. In 2015, he participated in "Show Me The Money 4." He acted in dramas like "Poong, the Joseon Psychiatrist," "Dali & Cocky Prince," "Dr. Romantic," etc.

7. Kim Min Seok

Kim Min-Seok, known for playing the lead role in "Shark: The Beginning," wanted to be an idol. He even participated in the survival audition program "Super Star K 3." His acting career began with the drama "Flower Band," and he has since dedicated himself entirely to acting. "Delivery Man," "The Doctors," and "Innocent Defendant," are some of his works.

The journey of these South Korean actors, who began their careers as K-pop trainees and then transitioned into acting, speaks volumes about their talent, tenacity, and adaptability. Their exceptional acting skills have endeared them to audiences and played a significant role in their success in the entertainment industry.