You may have heard BIGBANG and 2NE1. You might have also squealed in excitement every time you see BLACKPINK members, and impatiently waiting for the next release of BABYMONSTER. Yes, that is just how incredible the power of YG Entertainment holds in the South Korean music industry. But that’s not all there is! Did you know that some of our present-day legendary Korean male actors started off as YG Entertainment models? Intrigued? You should be. These actors have risen to the top tier of Korean celebrities in just a matter of years. So, who are they? Let’s find out!
YG Entertainment: Not Just Your Ordinary Music Agency
Dwelling in the hallyu culture in the last couple of decades would definitely lead you to the BIG 4 (formerly BIG 3) entertainment agencies in South Korea: HYBE, SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, and YG Entertainment. These agencies are the pillars of Kpop that have shaped the present-day Korean music industry.
However, there’s more than just music when it comes to YG Entertainment.
Over the last decade, YG Entertainment has demonstrated a brilliant culture in forming and producing high quality artists. In the Kpop industry, almost everyone agrees that there’s these special traits and qualities of artists who trained under the company. Take for examples, Fromis_9 Lee Seo Yeon, Billlie Moon Sua, and (G)I-DLE Miyeon.
But that’s not all there is!
Unlike other labels that focus on Kpop music only, YG Entertainment is the very source of South Korea’s diamonds in the rough.
YG Entertainment has not only produced legendary Kpop idols but has also cultivated several Korean male models who have successfully turned into acclaimed actors. These YG models graced the runways of top designers and appeared on the covers of prestigious fashion magazines before expanding their careers in acting, captivating Korean drama fans worldwide with their striking visuals, charisma, and acting prowess.
With a keen eye for talent and a knack for grooming multifaceted stars, YG Entertainment has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of these remarkable individuals. And so, these YG Entertainment male models-turned-actors have proven that their talents extend far beyond the runway, bringing depth and emotion to their on-screen roles.
YG Turned These Korean Male Models Into Legendary Actors
So, who in the world are they? In this post, we’ll delve into the fascinating journeys of how YG Entertainment has turned these 5 Korean male models into impressive modern-day actors.
1. Nam Joo Hyuk
Firstly, one of the most famous Korean male models whom YG Entertainment turned into legendary actors is Nam Joo Hyuk. He started his career as YG KPLUS’s model, debuting as SONGZIO Homme 2014 S/S Collection.
Today, Nam Joo Hyuk is one of South Korea’s most prominent actors with numerous impressive projects, including “Vigilante,” “Twenty-Five, Twenty-One,” “Start Up,” and “The Bride of Habaek.”
2. Jang Ki Yong
Remember the handsome immortal gumiho in “My Roommate is Gumiho”? Yes, actor Jang Ki Yong had been making names in the Korean drama industry during the last decade.
But in the past, Jang Ki Yong began his career as one of the top male models at YG Entertainment.
He started off as one of YG KPlus model in 2012 and walked the runway for various high-profile fashion shows. His tall stature, striking looks, and charisma on the runway quickly earned him recognition. Jang Ki Yong received accolades, such as the Fashion Model Award at the 2014 Asian Model Awards.
YG Entertainment helped him transition his career from modeling to acting with their renowned reputation and networks
3. Lee Soo Hyuk
Who doesn’t know Lee Soo Hyuk? The “Born Again” and “Tomorrow” actor who’s famous with his deep and sultry voice is one of the most legendary YG Entertainment male models-turned-actors. He was one of the senior male models at YG with over a decade of career since his debut in 2006.
The present-day Lee Soo Hyuk is not only famous as a global male model, but also in the Korean filming industry. His latest appearance as the charismatic Park Joong Gil in “Tomorrow” has captivated Korean drama audience worldwide.
Among all Korean male models, YG Entertainment has successfully shaped him into an amazing actor.
4. Lee Jong Suk
Not many people know, but IU’s dearest boyfriend and amazing actor Lee Jong Suk was once one of the top-tier male models at YG Entertainment. Indeed, before joining the company, he already made his name as the youngest male model to debut at Seoul Fashion Week, but YG provided Lee Jong Suk with greater exposure and more significant opportunities.
During his time with YG, Lee Jong Suk continued to participate in various fashion shows, maintaining a strong presence on the runway. With YG Entertainment’s backing, Lee Jong Suk secured numerous brand endorsements. He became the face of several fashion and beauty brands, leveraging his popularity and YG’s marketing prowess.
And finally, YG Entertainment also turned him from one of phenomenal male models into one of the most legendary actors.
5. Byeon Woo Seok
Last but not the least is the latest Korean “Lovely Runner” sensation, actor Byeon Woo Seok. He is one of the most sensational male models-turned-actors from YG Entertainment.
Byeon Woo Seok debuted as a model in 2010, but joined YG Entertainment around 2015. He then underwent rigorous training not only in modeling but also in acting and other aspects of the entertainment industry, so he could later debut with a versatile career.
After joining YG Entertainment, Byeon Woo Seok walked various high-profile fashion shows, including Seoul Fashion Week. He was also featured in several fashion magazines such as Vogue Korea, Elle Korea, and W Korea, and worked with numerous fashion brands, both domestic and international.
The present-day Byeon Woo Seok is more than just your ordinary male models-turned-actors. He is a worldwide phenomenon with alluring smile and heart-melting eyes as one of South Korea’s legendary heartthrobs! And it’s all partly thanks to the Korean company, YG Entertainment.
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