Im Siwan has proved his acting prowess by showcasing his flexibility as an actor. Although he made his debut as a member of idol group ZE:A, he captivated viewers with his ability to embrace his character through K-dramas.
Starting his acting career in 2012 through the miniseries "Moon Embracing the Sun," where he played the young Heo Yeom, the former idol was able to make a name for himself as one of the sought-after stars in his generation.
Interestingly, he was selected to join the webtoon-based K-drama "Misaeng: Incomplete Life" along with top actors and rising stars.
Im Siwan took on the character of Jang Geu Rae, who once dreamed of becoming a professional Go player but ended up working as an office intern.
Despite being a rookie in the working force, he was able to overcome the challenges, especially bullying at work.
At the time, viewers lauded the actor for his amazing portrayal, making the audience laugh and cry at the same time.
Joining him are Kang Sora, Jeon Suk Ho, Byun Yo Han, Kang Ha Neul, Kim Dae Myung, and veteran actor Lee Sung Min as lead stars.
Helmed by hit K-dramas "Signal" and "Arthdal Chronicles" director Kim Won Suk, "Misaeng: Incomplete Life" is among the best-loved K-dramas of 2014. With this, the series ended up winning major categories at the 51st Baeksang Arts Awards.
Lee Sung Min bagged Best Actor in the TV category, followed by Best Director for Kim Won Suk.
READ MORE: Is 'Boyhood' Season 2 Possible? Im Siwan Expresses Desire for Sequel
As for Im Siwan, he took home the coveted Best New Actor award for his role as Jang Geu Rae.
However, did you know that the ZE:A member was not the first choice for the character?
Ji Chang Wook, Lee Jong Suk, and Lee Je Hoon Offered to Star in 'Misaeng' Before Im Siwan
In a report, CJ E&M's casting team lead, Yang Sung Min, revealed that "Misaeng: Incomplete Life" was offered to various stars.
According to the casting team lead, the K-drama "has been proposed to several actors, including Lee Jong Suk and Ji Chang Wook, in addition to Lee Je Hoon."
However, Yang Sung Min, along with a casting expert, believes that Jang Geu Rae perfectly fits Im Siwan for this reason.
"But in our opinion, every role has a person who owns it."
In the same year that "Misaeng: Incomplete Life" was launched, Ji Chang Wook is gearing up for the release of the action thriller K-drama "Healer," which is also considered his breakthrough project.
The same goes for Lee Je Hoon, who also starred in "Secret Door" in that same year.
As for Lee Jong Suk, he appeared in back-to-back K-dramas in 2014. First is the medical drama "Doctor Stranger," followed by the thriller mystery series "Pinocchio" with Park Shin Hye.
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Written by Geca Flores
