Typecasting is both a boon and bane for artists in the Korean drama scene. These seven artists have managed to be iconic for their characters and end up playing similar roles time and again. Let's explore some of the most common instances.
1. Lee Min Ho Famous for portraying wealthy, arrogant chaebol heirs who soften for love, as seen in "Boys Over Flowers" and "The Heirs," Lee Min Ho's charm has locked him into these elite, romantic lead roles, making it hard to break into grittier parts.
2. Park Shin Hye
Often cast as the innocent, poor girl or damsel in distress who overcomes hardships, like in "The Heirs" and "Pinocchio," Park Shin Hye's wholesome image has typecast her in resilient heroine roles with emotional depth but limited variety.
3. Park Min Young
Typically playing the pretty, professional leading lady entangled in love triangles or office romances, such as in What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, her elegant style and chemistry with co-stars have solidified this romantic archetype in her career.
4. Sung Hoon
Frequently portraying the aloof, cold CEO with a hidden heart of gold who melts for the female lead, as in "My Secret Romance," Sung Hoon's sharp features and intense gaze make him a staple in these brooding second-lead or rival roles.
5. Jung Hae In
Often typecast in gentle, romantic melodrama leads with emotional vulnerability, like in Something in the Rain, his boyish charm has him repeating heartfelt, love-struck characters in slice-of-life and romance genres.
6. Hwang In Youp
Commonly cast as rebellious high school students or bad boys with hidden depths, seen in "True Beauty" and "18 Again," his youthful appearance and edgy vibe keep him in coming-of-age or school-themed dramas.
7. Ji Chang Wook
Regularly playing action heroes or secret agents with intense fight scenes and mysterious pasts, as in Healer and The K2, his athletic build and charisma have typecast him in high-stakes thrillers and bodyguard roles.
