The outdated belief that “idols can’t act” no longer holds water. Not long ago, K-pop idols who transitioned into acting were cautiously labeled as “actors.” Now, “acting-dols”—a fusion of “actor” and “idol”—are leading the charge in Korean dramas.

Currently, BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and WJSN’s Kim Ji-yeon (also known as Bona) are headlining the SBS Friday drama Guigung. This fantasy romantic comedy follows Yeo Ri (Kim Ji-yeon) and her first love Yoon Gap (Yook Sungjae), who become entangled with the soul of Chul Yi, an imperial warrior. Yoon Gap’s body is possessed by Chul Yi, blurring identities and emotions in a story brimming with magical tension and romantic twists. The chemistry between Sungjae and Ji-yeon electrifies every episode. Sungjae’s portrayal of Chul Yi—sassy yet serious—has drawn strong praise for his dynamic performance. Since debuting as an actor in tvN’s Monstar (2013) and appearing in hit dramas like Reply 1994, Plus Nine Boys, Who Are You: School 2015, Goblin, and Mystic Pop-Up Bar, Yook Sungjae has evolved into a truly seasoned actor.

Kim Ji-yeon, portraying the skilled artisan and shaman Yeo Ri, is also being hailed as a revelation. She first gained acclaim for her role as fencing prodigy Go Yu-rim in tvN’s Twenty-Five Twenty-One. In Guigung, she shines as a conflicted heroine grappling with the strange reappearance of her first love’s body now inhabited by another soul. Ji-yeon’s nuanced performance further cements her rise as a genuine acting star.

Meanwhile, Park Ji-hoon, who rose to fame through Produce 101 Season 2, is starring in Netflix’s Weak Hero Class 2. He plays Yeon Si-eun, a top student indifferent to everything except studying—but with unexpected fighting prowess. Ji-hoon draws attention for his subtle, deadpan expression that hides the character’s inner strength, showcasing his growing acting range.

Park Ji-hoon was recently cast in director Jang Hang-jun’s upcoming film The Man Who Lives With the King, where he’ll portray Chungmu alongside veteran actors Yoo Hae-jin and Yoo Ji-tae, heightening anticipation for his big-screen presence.

Elsewhere, U-KISS’s Lee Jun-young and Apink’s Jung Eun-ji are co-starring in KBS2’s new drama 24-Hour Health Club. This coming-of-age story follows gym manager Do Hyun-joong (Lee Jun-young) and anxious client Helin (Jung Eun-ji) as they tackle personal transformation. Lee Jun-young impresses with his role as a fitness enthusiast, while Jung Eun-ji showcases hilarious chemistry as the quirky Helin.

Lee Jun-young, though originally from an idol group, is now better known for his acting credentials. He’s left a strong impression in series like Netflix’s D.P., Mask Girl, Melo Movie, Brave Citizen, and Weak Hero Class 2. His standout performances—even in limited screen time—have earned him nicknames like “Netflix’s Son” and “scene-stealer.” Jung Eun-ji, on the other hand, has continued her steady rise since her breakout role in Reply 1997. From her captivating performance in Work Later, Drink Now to musical stages and radio hosting, she proves herself as a versatile entertainer.

Whether it’s Yook Sungjae, Kim Ji-yeon, Park Ji-hoon, Lee Jun-young, or Jung Eun-ji—each began their career as an idol but now earns recognition as a serious actor. Though they faced early skepticism, these performers have pushed past the “idol actor” stereotype with undeniable skill. With continued success across romance, action, noir, and more, their future on screen looks brighter than ever.