Ever wondered why so many K-drama stars seem like natural-born performers? From singing OSTs to lighting up the stage at fan events, their idol-like energy comes from real experience - a lot of them actually trained as K-pop idols! Some even spent their trainee days at the Big 3 entertainment agencies: SM, YG, and JYP Entertainment.

Let’s delve into the K-drama stars who once trained to be idols under these top-tier agencies before captivating us on screen.

Lee Jong Suk [SM]

Before becoming one of the most sought-after K-drama stars, Lee Jong Suk trained under SM Entertainment for three months as a part of their idol trainee program in order to debut as a rapper. However, Jong Suk ultimately shifted gears to pursue acting, and the rest is history.

Ahn Hyo Seop [JYP]

Ahn Hyo Seop, who has captivated viewers with his roles in ‘Business Proposal’ and ‘Dr. Romantic 2,’ was a trainee at JYP Entertainment for about three years and trained alongside GOT7 members. Though he ultimately didn’t debut as an idol, partly due to height and skill challenges, he eventually discovered his true calling in acting.

Goo Hye Sun [SM & YG]

Goo Hye Sun, best known for her iconic role in the hit K-drama ‘Boys Over Flowers,’ trained at multiple top agencies, including DSP Media, as well as the ‘Big 3’ labels, SM and YG Entertainment. Also a singer-songwriter, her diverse training background clearly laid the foundation for her wide-ranging talents.

Min Hyo Rin [JYP]

Before her acting career took off, Min Hyo Rin was an idol trainer under JYP Entertainment from the age of nineteen, training alongside future icons like Wonder Girls. Her acting breakthrough came with ‘Sunny,’ followed by ‘The Grand Heist,’ both cited among South Korea’s highest-grossing box office hits.

Gong Seung Yeon [SM]

Gong Seung Yeon, known for her charming roles in ‘Are You Human Too?,’ ‘Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency,’ etc., trained under SM Entertainment for seven years. Though Seung Yeon didn’t debut as an idol like her sister TWICE’s Jeongyeon, she made a name for herself as an actress.

Yoo In Na [YG]

Before captivating audiences with her roles in ‘Goblin’ and ‘My Love from the Star,’ Yoo In Na spent over a decade as an idol trainee and even trained under YG Entertainment. While she ultimately chose acting over K-pop, her experience as a trainee sharpened her stage presence and charisma.

Kim Ji Hoon [SM]

Known for his roles in dramas like ‘Flower of Evil’ and ‘Love to Hate You,’ Kim Ji Hoon was once a popular SM trainee in his early years. Though he chose the acting path, his sharp visuals and stage-ready aura hint at his idol trainee past.

Honey Lee [YG]

A former Miss Korea and a skilled actress, Lee Hanee, popularly known as Honey Lee, was an idol trainee under YG Entertainment. She trained alongside 2NE1’s members Park Bom, and Minzy for about a year but ended her trainee life to participate in the Miss Korea pageant.

Lee Yeon Hee [SM]

Lee Yeon Hee was the winner of SM Entertainment’s famous recruitment competition ‘SM Teenage Contest’ in 2001 and trained with future Girls’ Generation members. Though she took the acting route, her elegant visuals and versatility continue to shine in various drama roles.

It’s no surprise that many K-drama stars have roots in the rigorous world of K-pop idol training. Their early experiences in these demanding environments equipped them with the discipline, performance skills, and stage presence that now captivate drama audiences worldwide.

SEE ALSO: Ahn Hyo Seop in talks for lead role in romantic comedy ‘Today, Sold Out’