K-dramas featuring K-pop idol actors combine global music fame with powerful storytelling, creating unforgettable performances that win over both drama lovers and K-pop fans. From romantic comedies to fantasy epics and historical sagas, these series showcase idols proving their acting talent beyond the stage. Here are the top 10 K-dramas featuring K-pop idol actors that you should add to your watchlist.
1. Dream High (2011)
“Dream High” is one of the most iconic K-dramas featuring K-pop idol actors, starring Suzy (miss A), Taecyeon and Wooyoung (2PM), and Eunjung (T-ara) alongside Kim Soo-hyun. Set at Kirin High School of Art, the drama follows aspiring singers striving to debut in the competitive entertainment industry. Packed with real performances, catchy OSTs, and heartfelt coming-of-age moments, it explores friendship, rivalry, and first love. The series became a cultural phenomenon and launched several acting careers, making it a must-watch for fans of music-centered Korean dramas.
2. Hotel Del Luna (2019)
“Hotel Del Luna” features IU in one of her most acclaimed acting roles as Jang Man-wol, the elegant yet cursed owner of a mysterious hotel for wandering spirits. Blending fantasy, romance, and light horror, the drama pairs IU with Yeo Jin-goo in a visually stunning story about redemption and lingering regrets. IU’s performance proved her emotional depth and versatility beyond her K-pop superstar image. With breathtaking cinematography, memorable fashion, and a hauntingly beautiful OST, this fantasy hit remains one of the best K-dramas starring a K-pop idol actress.
3. My ID Is Gangnam Beauty (2018)
ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo shines in “My ID Is Gangnam Beauty,” a campus romance tackling beauty standards and self-acceptance. Playing the quiet yet principled Do Kyung-seok, Cha Eun-woo brought natural charisma and subtle emotion to the webtoon adaptation. The story follows a young woman navigating college life after plastic surgery while confronting societal judgments. Its relatable themes, sweet romance, and strong character growth resonated with viewers worldwide. This drama solidified Cha Eun-woo’s place among successful K-pop idol actors transitioning into leading roles in Korean television.
4. Goblin (2016)
Although primarily led by Gong Yoo and Kim Go-eun, “Goblin (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)” features B1A4’s Yook Sung-jae in a standout supporting role as the playful and wealthy Yoo Deok-hwa. His comedic timing balanced the drama’s emotional intensity and epic fantasy themes. Cameos from former idol members also added to its star appeal. Blending immortality, romance, and fate, “Goblin” became one of the highest-rated K-dramas in cable history. Yook Sung-jae’s performance demonstrated how K-pop idols can hold their own in blockbuster Korean dramas.
5. King the Land (2023)
“King the Land” pairs Girls’ Generation’s Im Yoon-ah (Yoona) with 2PM’s Lee Junho in a refreshing romantic comedy set in the luxury hotel industry. Their undeniable chemistry drives the story of a wealthy heir and a hardworking employee who clash before falling in love. Both idols deliver charming and emotionally grounded performances, proving their maturity as actors. With lighthearted humor, corporate rivalry, and swoon-worthy romance, the series gained massive global streaming popularity, making it one of the most successful recent K-dramas featuring K-pop idol leads.
6. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
While Kim Seon-ho is primarily known as an actor, his early idol trainee background adds to the drama’s idol connection. “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” is a healing seaside romance centered on community, growth, and second chances. Opposite Shin Min-a, Kim Seon-ho’s portrayal of the kind-hearted handyman Hong Du-sik captured hearts worldwide. The series became a global hit thanks to its comforting storytelling and heartfelt performances. Though less idol-focused than others on this list, it remains a beloved K-drama with strong connections to Korea’s entertainment industry roots.
7. Itaewon Class (2020)
“Itaewon Class” became a global sensation with its powerful underdog narrative set in Seoul’s vibrant Itaewon district. While not led by an idol actor, BTS’s V contributed a popular OST track that boosted international interest. The drama tackles themes of discrimination, ambition, and revenge as Park Sae-ro-yi builds his restaurant empire. Its diverse cast and socially relevant themes made it stand out among modern K-dramas. The strong link to K-pop through its soundtrack and cultural impact helped bridge idol fandom and mainstream drama audiences.
8. The King’s Affection (2021)
“The King’s Affection” features Jung Chae-yeon (DIA, former I.O.I member) alongside Park Eun-bin in a compelling historical romance. B1A4’s Jinyoung and 5urprise’s Kang Tae-oh further strengthen the idol presence in this Joseon-era tale of a princess forced to live as her twin brother, the crown prince. The drama blends political intrigue, forbidden romance, and emotional tension. Jung Chae-yeon’s steady performance showcased her growth as an actress. Internationally praised and award-winning, it stands as one of the best historical K-dramas featuring K-pop idol actors.
9. Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
“Hwarang” boasts one of the most star-studded idol casts in K-drama history, including BTS’s V (Kim Taehyung), ZE:A’s Park Hyung-sik, and SHINee’s Minho. Set during the Silla Kingdom, the historical action drama follows elite young warriors navigating politics, loyalty, and romance. While Park Seo-joon leads the series, the idol actors bring charisma and youthful energy to the ensemble. BTS’s V, in particular, gained attention for his heartfelt supporting role. “Hwarang” remains a favorite among fans seeking historical K-dramas starring K-pop idols.
10. True Beauty (2020-2021)
“True Beauty” reunites Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO) with the romantic comedy genre in a vibrant adaptation of the popular webtoon. Playing the aloof yet soft-hearted Lee Su-ho, he anchors a love triangle filled with humor, insecurity, and personal growth. The drama explores themes of self-esteem and the pressures of appearance, resonating strongly with younger viewers. Cha Eun-woo’s improved acting and undeniable screen presence helped make the series a streaming success. For fans searching for K-dramas starring K-pop idol actors, “True Beauty” is an essential watch.
Conclusion
K-dramas featuring K-pop idol actors continue to captivate global audiences by blending star power with compelling storytelling. From romantic comedies and fantasy epics to historical dramas, these series prove that idols can shine just as brightly on screen as they do on stage. Whether you’re a devoted K-pop fan or new to Korean dramas, these top 10 K-dramas starring idol actors are perfect additions to your binge-watch list in 2026 and beyond.
