Korean Actors With Dual Personalities: What You See Isn’t Always What You Get

In the spotlight-heavy world of K-dramas, many fans assume their favorite stars are as noble or charming as the characters they portray. But Korean actors with dual personalities often reveal a much more complex reality. According to Korea In Focus’s video “8 Two-Faced Korean Actors,” public perception can be misleading—sometimes due to real-life controversies, and sometimes because of misunderstood on-screen roles.

Lee Seo Won’s Dark Past Stuns Fans

Lee Seo Won, known for roles in The Liar and His Lover and Uncontrollably Fond, once seemed like a promising young actor. However, his career came to a halt in 2018 when he was accused of sexual harassment and threatening a female celebrity with a weapon after a night of drinking. Police reports described aggressive behavior, and DNA evidence confirmed contact with the victim.

Though Lee claimed he was too drunk to remember the incident, he eventually admitted guilt in court. His promising image was shattered, and his career in acting has since been suspended indefinitely.

Nam Joo Hyuk’s School Bullying Scandal

With his swoon-worthy performances in Start-Up and Twenty-Five Twenty-One, Nam Joo Hyuk had a reputation as the ideal boyfriend. That changed in 2022 when former classmates accused him of school bullying, including physical violence and emotional abuse.

Nam admitted to some behavior and apologized, but the revelations shocked fans. Some acquaintances described a withdrawn personality shift after his fame, while others defended him as warm and polite—highlighting how perceptions can clash.

Kim Tae Ri’s Personality Under Fire

Despite being praised for her strong-willed role in Twenty-Five Twenty-One, Kim Tae Ri was controversially voted the second “worst personality” among Korean actresses in 2022. Criticism stemmed from interviews where she appeared disengaged, doodled during Q&As, and made blunt comments at international press events.

While some argue her carefree attitude mirrors her character, others viewed her behavior as unprofessional and poorly timed, drawing a wave of backlash that contradicted her innocent screen image.

Lee Soo Hyuk Isn’t as Cold as He Looks

Often cast in brooding roles like Tomorrow or The Scholar Who Walks the Night, Lee Soo Hyuk is frequently mistaken for being aloof. But in real life, the actor says he’s nothing like his on-screen personas.

In interviews, he revealed that he dislikes tension, enjoys casual gatherings, and hopes to appear on variety shows to show fans his laid-back and playful side. His dual image proves that casting can shape public perception far more than reality.

Lim Ji Yeon: Nothing Like Her Villain Role

Lim Ji Yeon shocked audiences with her chilling portrayal of Park Yeon Jin in The Glory, leading some fans to think she shared her character’s cruelty. But Lim clarified that the role took an emotional toll and was far from her real personality.

She’s described herself as easygoing, kind, and even shared her real-life romance with co-star Lee Do Hyun—further distancing herself from her infamous role.

Kim Jae Wook’s Soft Side Contrasts His Roles

Known for playing icy and narcissistic characters like in Crazy Love, Kim Jae Wook appears distant but is surprisingly warm off-camera. The actor, who once had to be carried home by his manager after two drinks, is described as affectionate and animal-loving.

His friendly demeanor and preference for relaxed work environments show a stark contrast to his often-intense on-screen image.

Ma Dong Seok’s Professionalism Questioned

Famous for his tough-guy roles, Ma Dong Seok was voted the “rudest actor” in 2022. Industry insiders accused him of skipping press events and leaving fellow actors to promote films like Force of Brutality and Plastic Men without him.

While his characters radiate strength, his off-screen behavior has been labeled unprofessional and inconsiderate—highlighting how power on-screen doesn’t always equal respect behind the scenes.

Woo Do Hwan’s Goofy Side Surprises Fans

With intense performances in thrillers, Woo Do Hwan often seems brooding and reserved. However, he’s openly said that he’s outgoing and humorous in real life. His close friendship with BTS’s V offers a glimpse into his playful, extroverted personality.

Though his looks and roles suggest mystery, Woo Do Hwan’s off-screen charm is down-to-earth and full of lighthearted energy.

Final Thoughts on Screen vs. Reality

This list of Korean actors with dual personalities proves just how different an actor’s real identity can be from their public image. While some celebrities have rightly lost public favor due to troubling scandals, others are simply misjudged because of the roles they play. As fans, it’s important to separate fiction from reality—especially in an industry where appearances can be carefully crafted and misleading.