The same can be said for the fashion world. As much as we love the actual fashion (clothing, accessories, etc.), sometimes one of the best parts is seeing which models will bring the clothes to life. What if you could have the best of both worlds, though? Luckily, some model-turned-actors have blessed us with the best of both experiences. Here are some of the model-turned-actors who made us swoon at them on the runway and have now taken over our K-Drama screens in the same way. Note: This list is in random order and is not a ranking.
1. Hwang InYoup
Hwang InYoup entered entertainment as a runway model around 2017. He took on modeling as he believed that it would challenge him, however, he had always wanted to be an actor. Currently, he is not only known for his model proportions and dashing aura, but also for his authentic acting in dramas such as “True Beauty”, “Why Her?”, and “The Sound of Magic”.
Then
Now
2. Kim JaeYoung
Kim JaeYoung made his model debut in 2011. He has a long list of experience as a model with many features in fashion shows and pictorials. The handsome model-turned-actor made the transition to acting and is now known for his roles in dramas such as “Secret Boutique”, “Reflection of You”, and currently in “Love in Contract”.
Then
Now
3. Byeon WooSeok
Byeon WooSeok started out as a model around 2015. He had always been interested in acting, so he used the opportunity of being signed to his agency as a model to take acting lessons, as well. The visually striking model-turned-actor is known for his roles in dramas such as “Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency”, “Record of Youth”, and “Moonshine”.
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Now
4. Nam JooHyuk
At the age of 20, Nam JooHyuk applied for the “One Day Model Experience” and won first place. As a benefit, he attended an academy as a scholarship student and signed a modeling contract with KPlus. His first runway walk is said to have taken place in 2014. He later got into acting with his heartthrob charm and is known for his roles in dramas like “Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo”, “Start-Up”, and “Twenty-Five Twenty-One”.
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Now
5. Kim YoungDae
Kim YoungDae has been in demand as a model since a young age. Even in his middle school days, he was often cast by the employees of his management agency. With statuesque good looks, he is currently known for his roles in all three seasons of “Penthouse: War in Life” and in the drama “Sh**ting Stars”.
Then
Now
These are only a few of the model-turned-actors who are active on the K-Drama scene. There are many more but we hope this served as a good introduction. Which model-turned-actor is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! If you’re curious about other model-turned-actors who are/were YGX models, check out this article: 13 YG Models Who Are Rookie/Rising Actors That You Need To Know About KDRAMA STORIES|Jan 26, 2022 If you’re curious about K-Pop idols that look like models, check out this article: 38 K-Pop Idols Who Look Like Models KPOP STORIES|Nov 12, 2021