While some South Korean stars live in the glitz and glam of show business, others had to make their way up and experience struggle before success.
From top actors and actresses to award-winning celebrities, these 5 K-drama stars experienced poverty but managed to turn the tables and are now considered successful celebrities.
Park Bo Gum
Before his fame in "Reply 1988" Park Bo Gum had a difficult life growing up.
Born and raised in Seoul, he was named Bo Gum which means "precious word" after he was gravely ill during his birth but managed to recover.
Growing up is not all bed of roses for Bogummy after his mother passed away when he was in fourth grade.
READ MORE: Park Bo Gum's New Agency Releases Actor's Dashing Profile Photos
After getting a degree, he made his debut in 2012 doing supporting roles which include "Wonderful Days," "Naeil's Cantabile" and "Hello Monster."
However, at 22, he filed for bankruptcy after his father borrowed US$280,000 from a bank and listed Park Bo Gum as the guarantor.
Unfortunately, the loan increased to US$750,000 including the interest rate and it was hard for him to pay off the debt all in one go.
Thankfully, due to his flourishing career, the actor was able to pay off the debt in full within 6 months.
RAIN
The singer-actor is not just one of the highest-paid stars in K-drama but also among the wealthiest celebrities in the industry.
Apart from his career, endorsement, and business, he and his wife Kim Tae Hee are also real estate moguls, owning several properties in Korea.
However, before RAIN's fame, he had to work odd jobs which includes working at construction when he was still in high school.
Aside from studying, he is also paying for his mother's medicines.
Now, besides hit K-dramas and albums, he also owned J. Tune Entertainment in 2007, and R.A.I.N. Company in 2015.
IU
Known as "Nation's Sweetheart" and "Nation's Little Sister" IU won the hearts of many with her angelic voice, visuals, and amazing acting skills.
However, before she became one of the successful Korean celebrities, her family experienced a financial crisis, and had to live with her grandparents along with her sibling.
IU's audition to various agencies is not smooth sailing as she was often criticized for her singing.
Lo and behold, she emerged as the country's top star with sold-out concerts and endorsements from luxury brands.
Yoo Jae Suk
Before his popularity as the most sought-after host, Yoo Jae Suk grew up in a family who struggled to make ends meet.
In an episode of his show "Hangout With Yoo," he recalled the days when he had no money and was nameless in the industry.
Now, Yoo Jae Suk's earnings per episode are around 150 million Won or 115,345 USD) per episode, and has earned from 600 million to 700 million Won or an estimated 461,164.32 to 538,025.04 USD for every endorsement deal.
