From "Good Boy" Han Ji Pyeong, played by Kim Seon Ho, to Park Seo Joon as Oh Ri On in "Kill Me, Heal Me," these five actors began as the second leads in K-dramas.
The term "second lead syndrome" came to life as Korean drama enthusiasts ship the story of the female main character and the second lead star, thinking that he deserves the love more than the leading man.
With that, these five actors managed to hit the spotlight and are now considered as among the bankable leading men of Kdramas.
Kim Seon Ho - 'Start-Up'
The actor skyrocketed his fame after starring in the megahit series "Start-Up," alongside Bae Suzy and Nam Joo Hyuk. Through this series, K-drama fans endured the intense "second lead syndrome" after Han Ji Pyeong did not end up with Seo Dal Mi.
READ ALSO: Kim Seon Ho Transforms as Hiker Joe for Theater Comeback 'Touching the Void'
Now, Kim Seon Ho is reaping his success and recently headlined another top-rating series, "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha," with Shin Min Ah.
Kim Seon Ho is also making his silver screen debut through "Sad Tropics" with Go Ara.
Park Seo Joon - 'Kill Me, Heal Me'
One of the most successful second lead turned leading men is none other than Park Seo Joon. Yes, you read that right!
In the 2015 MBC's "Kill Me, Heal Me," he took the second lead character, Oh Ri On and impressed the viewers with his performance.
READ ALSO: Park Bo Young Updates Fans Ahead of Silver Screen Comeback With Park Seo Joon
The psychological rom-com series opened the doors for him to try being the main character, starting in "She Was Pretty" followed by "Hwarang," "Fight for My Way," "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim," and of course, "Itaewon Class." He is slated to star alongside Park Bo Young in the movie "Concrete Utopia."
From K-drama, Park Seo Joon is achieving his Hollywood dream after starring in the upcoming "The Marvels 2" with Brie Larson.
Kim Woo Bin - 'The Heirs'
Another top-notch Kdrama actor is Kim Woo Bin, who first gained recognition with his second lead character in "The Heirs."
Then-rising star wowed the viewers with his stunning looks and acting skills, portraying the chaebol bully of Jeguk High School, Choi Young Do.
READ ALSO: Kim Tae Ri, Ryu Jun Yeol Reunite in Upcoming Film 'Alien'- Here's What They Think
Due to his leading role charisma, Kim Woo Bin is cast as the male protagonist in "Uncontrollably Fond" with Bae Suzy and the rest was history for this OG Oppa.
Kang Ha Neul - 'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo'
Before bagging the Best Actor trophy at the 56th Baeksang Arts Awards for his role in "When the Camellia Blooms," Kang Ha Neul made the public swoon over his charm in "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo."
He played 8th Prince Wang Wook, who has this typical boyfriend material of warm-hearted and kind personality.
READ ALSO: 'Insider' Episode 5-6: Kang Ha Neul Makes Deal With Kang Young Seok
At the height of the K-drama, everyone was shipping Wang Wook and Hae Soo, played by IU but ended up with the 4th prince Wang So, portrayed by Lee Joon Gi.
Kang Ha Neul currently stars as a vengeful and former judicial trainee in the legal-thriller K-drama "Insider."
Jung Hae In - 'While You Were Sleeping'
This South Korean cutie first stole the hearts of fans with his boy next door vibe in "While You Were Sleeping" and took on the second lead character Han Woo Tak.
His performance in the 2017 romantic fantasy series became his opportunity to land memorable roles, such "Something in the Rain" with Hallyu star Son Ye Jin and "Snowdrop" with the gorgeous idol-actress Jisoo from BLACKPINK.
Jung Hae In is about to reprise his role in the Baeksang awardee "D.P." Season 2 in 2023.
