From Hwang In Yeop to Park Yoona: 7 K Drama rising stars we cannot get our eyes off

K-dramas are blessed with actors who have amazing charm and abundant talent. With the growing popularity of K-dramas worldwide and easy streaming, we are introduced to an increasing number of talented young actors. Korean dramas have a penchant for unearthing rare, gems of talents that hold promise for a better K drama future. 

From Hwang In Yeop and Park Yoona's lasting impression in True Beauty, to Lee Do Hyun's winning portrayal in 18 Again, Kim Young Dae and Kim Hyun Soo as the naive lovebirds in The Penthouse: War In Life, Kim Dami's strong portrayal in Itaewon Class to Lee Jae Wook's first lead role in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol. We pick our top 7 K Drama rising stars we cannot get our eyes off of.

1. Hwang In Yeop

The breakout star of the year was definitely Hwang In Yeop from True Beauty. Hwang In Yeop featured in dramas like Tale of Nokdu and 18 Again, before he struck gold as the resident bad boy with a heart of gold, Han Seo Jun in True Beauty. Since his breakthrough with True Beauty, he has been sitting pretty with a staggering 8.1 million followers on his Instagram. Though the actor hasn't confirmed his next release yet, fans are waiting with bated breath.

2. Park Yoona

Another breakout star was Park Yoona, who last portrayed, Kang Soo Jin, a grey-character in tvN drama's True Beauty. Though Yoona has appeared in various dramas like The Package and Stranger, it is now through dramas like Hotel Del Luna and True Beauty, she has gained mainstream recognition and frankly, we would love to see more of her.

3. Kim Young Dae

The gorgeous young actor has often been compared to veteran Korean star, Gang Dong Won for their striking features and a 'cold-handsome' look. Youngdae gained prominence with Extraordinary You, where he was part of an ensemble cast alongside Kim Hye Yoon and SF9's Rowoon. He followed it up with three superb dramas in 2020 with When The Weather Is Fine, Cheat On Me, If You Can and The Penthouse: War In Life. He has been doing exceptionally well and has us excited for the future.

4. Kim Hyun Soo

Hyun Soo is no stranger to the world of acting and camera. She started as a young child actor with K-Dramas like Deep Rooted Tree, Bridal Mask and My Love from the Star, where she portrayed a young Jun Ji Hyun. A talented young actress, she is currently the star attraction alongside Kim So Yeon, in SBS' smash-hit drama, The Penthouse: War In Life. She is still young but has already proved her versatility. Way to go, Kim Hyun Soo!

5. Lee Do Hyun

Can someone portray an emotionally strong character like Hong Dae Young/Go Woo Young and also the calm and collected, Lee Eun Hyuk from Sweet Home? Well, Lee Do Hyun can. The actor debuted with the 2017 dark-comedy, Prison Playbook. Over the years, he has played numerous characters in dramas like 18 Again and Sweet Home, proving his versatility.

6. Kim Da Mi

Would you believe it if we tell you that Itaewon Class was Kim Dami's K-drama debut? Well, it is true. Dami has worked in various Korean films like Marionette and The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion. She made an effective television debut with the charming drama, Itaewon Class, opposite the megastar, Park Seo Joon. Dami portrayed Jo Yi Seo, a multi-talented and practical girl, who eventually falls for the virtuous Park Saeroyi. Dami won several accolades for her performance, and we cannot wait to see more of her in the world of K-dramas!

7. Lee Jae Wook

Did you know, Hyun Bin's agency VAST Entertainment recruited Lee Jae Wook right away, impressed with his performance in Memories of the Alhambra! He is only 22 years old and already trailblazing his way to stardom. Jae Wook has starred in some amazing dramas like Search: WWW, Extraordinary You, When The Weather Is Fine and his first lead role in a K-drama, Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol. We cannot wait to watch more of him.

ALSO READ: The Penthouse S2 Ep 5 & 6 RECAP: Shim Su Ryeon is back as the saga of deception & defeat continues

Do you agree with our list? Who are your favourite rising stars in Kdramas? Share your thoughts with Pinkvilla in the comments below.