If you are a dedicated K-Pop fan, you have likely seen your favorite idols command a stadium, execute flawless choreography, and connect with millions through their music. But have you ever seen them fall in love as a Joseon-era prince, fight for their life in a corporate thriller, or navigate the awkwardness of a first date? Welcome to the world of K-Dramas, and for a K-Pop fan in 2025, there has never been a better or easier time to dive in. The perfect entry point into this incredibly rich and addictive world of storytelling is through a familiar face: your favorite idol.
This guide is designed specifically for you. It is a starter pack for the K-Pop fan who is curious about K-Dramas but feels overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. Forget endless scrolling and confusing recommendations. We will connect you with a great story through the artists you already know and love, providing the perfect gateway to your next favorite hobby.
Why Should You Start Your K-Drama Journey with an Idol?
Choosing a drama that features an idol actor is a strategic first step for any K-Pop fan, and it offers several distinct advantages that make the transition from music fan to drama viewer smooth and exciting.
The Comfort of a Familiar Face
Jumping into a new show, with its unfamiliar characters and storylines, can be intimidating. Starting with a drama that stars your favorite idol immediately removes that barrier. You already have a connection to one of the main characters, an established sense of their personality and charisma that can serve as an anchor while you get accustomed to the new world of the story. It is like attending a party where you already know at least one person—it instantly makes you feel more comfortable and invested.
A New Way to Appreciate Your Bias
One of the greatest joys of watching your idol act is seeing them in a completely new light. The persona they have on stage is just one facet of their talent. Acting allows them to shed their “idol” identity and fully embody another person—to be vulnerable, villainous, hilarious, or heartbroken. Witnessing this transformation from a charismatic performer into a nuanced character can give you a profound new appreciation for their versatility, work ethic, and artistic depth.
The Perfect Gateway to a New World
The best dramas starring idols are, first and foremost, just great dramas. They are so well-written and engaging that they will inevitably spark your curiosity. You will find yourself falling in love not just with your idol’s performance, but with the story itself, the supporting characters, and the unique feel of Korean television. Before you know it, you will be looking up the other works of the director, the screenwriter, or your idol’s talented co-star. This is how a single drama becomes the doorway to a vast and wonderful new world of entertainment.
How to Find the Perfect Drama: Your K-Pop Starter Pack
To get you started, here is a curated list of excellent “first dramas” based on some of K-Pop’s most popular idols.
If Your Bias Is Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO)…
- Recommendation: True Beauty (2020)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A high-school romantic comedy.
- Why You’ll Love It: This is the perfect entry-level K-Drama. It is bright, funny, and full of heart. Eun-woo plays Lee Su-ho, the handsome and aloof top student who discovers the female lead’s secret about her “ugly” bare face. The story is a classic for a reason, and it plays perfectly to Eun-woo’s strengths, making it an easy and incredibly enjoyable watch for a first-timer.
If Your Bias Is Kim Tae-hyung / V (BTS)…
- Recommendation: Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth (2016)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A historical “Sageuk” drama about an elite group of young warriors.
- Why You’ll Love It: As V’s only major acting credit to date, this is an absolute must-watch for any ARMY. While he is not the main lead, his character, the bright and innocent Suk Han-sung, is a vital and beloved part of the ensemble cast. The drama is a great introduction to the world of historical K-Dramas, featuring a star-studded cast of handsome actors, exciting action sequences, and a compelling story of friendship and brotherhood.
If Your Bias Is Bae Suzy (formerly Miss A)…
- Recommendation: Start-Up (2020)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A modern, inspiring story about young entrepreneurs in South Korea’s tech industry.
- Why You’ll Love It: Suzy is a veteran idol actress with a fantastic filmography, and Start-Up is one of her most popular and accessible works. She plays Seo Dal-mi, an ambitious young woman with big dreams but a humble background. The drama is optimistic, beautifully shot, and provides a fascinating look into the world of tech startups. It is a motivating and emotionally resonant story that is perfect for anyone who loves an underdog tale.
If Your Bias Is Rowoon (SF9)…
- Recommendation: The King’s Affection (2021)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A historical romance with a unique gender-bending twist.
- Why You’ll Love It: This drama showcases Rowoon’s undeniable talent as a romantic leading man. The story follows a young woman who is forced to pose as the crown prince. Rowoon plays her royal tutor, the intelligent and warm-hearted Jung Ji-woon, who finds himself developing confusing but powerful feelings for the “prince.” The series won a prestigious International Emmy Award, a testament to its high quality. It is a beautiful and compelling story with fantastic chemistry between the leads.
If Your Bias Is Jisoo (BLACKPINK)…
- Recommendation: Snowdrop (2021)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A period drama and romance set against the politically turbulent backdrop of 1987 South Korea.
- Why You’ll Love It: This is Jisoo’s debut as a leading lady and a must-see for any Blink. She delivers a heartfelt performance as Eun Yeong-ro, a cheerful university student whose life is turned upside down when a mysterious man falls, bleeding, into her dorm room. The drama is more complex and intense than a typical rom-com, blending a passionate love story with high-stakes political intrigue and suspense. It is a beautifully produced series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
If Your Bias Is Ok Taec-yeon (2PM)…
- Recommendation: Vincenzo (2021)
- What Kind of Drama Is It?: A dark comedy and action-thriller.
- Why You’ll Love It: Want to see a side of your idol you have never seen before? In Vincenzo, Taec-yeon starts as a seemingly innocent and goofy law intern before revealing himself to be the drama’s true villain, a ruthless and unhinged CEO. It is a shocking and brilliantly executed performance that showcases his incredible range. The drama itself is a slick, stylish, and wildly entertaining global hit, perfect for viewers who want something more action-packed and thrilling than a traditional romance.
What to Do After You Finish Your First Drama?
Congratulations! You have finished your first series. So, what’s next?
- Follow the Actors: Did you love your idol’s co-star? Look up their filmography! This is one of the most common ways that K-Drama fans discover new shows.
- Explore the Genre: If you discovered you love historical dramas or romantic comedies, a whole world awaits. Use online resources like MyDramaList or Soompi to find lists of the top-rated shows in that specific genre.
- Join the Conversation: The best part of being a K-Drama fan is sharing the experience. Join online communities on platforms like Reddit or X (formerly Twitter) to discuss theories, share your favorite moments, and get recommendations from fellow fans.
Your favorite idol has already given you the gift of music. Now, let them give you one more: the key to the rich, emotional, and wonderfully addictive world of Korean dramas.