In recent years, the most famous Asian idols from groups like BLACKPINK, ASTRO, BTS, EXO, and more have been stepping into the world of acting. Their projects go far beyond Korea — they now appear in international productions, including European and American films and series on platforms like Netflix and HBO.
Their music fills stadiums, and now their presence lights up the screen. Let’s take a look at the idols who have made a big impression in the film and TV world.

🎬✨ Lisa (BLACKPINK) — The White Lotus: Season 3 (2025)

Lisa, one of BLACKPINK’s most iconic members, made her acting debut in Season 3 of HBO’s award-winning series The White Lotus. Filmed in Thailand, her home country, the season shifts the show’s focus to Southeast Asia. Lisa plays a young Thai woman working at a luxury resort — a quiet but complex character, full of inner tension and emotional depth.
This is not only her first role as an actress, but also the first time a K-pop star has joined a major HBO production in a leading role.

🎬✨ T.O.P (BIGBANG) — Squid Game: Season 2 (2024)

BIGBANG’s veteran rapper and actor T.O.P returned to acting in the second season of Netflix’s Squid Game. His appearance marks a major comeback for the artist, as well as a powerful entry into the new generation of global pop culture.
His character, mysterious and intense, has become one of the most talked-about elements of the new season — adding a unique tone and style to the show.

🎬✨ Jennie (BLACKPINK) — The Idol (2023, HBO)

Jennie made her acting debut in HBO’s controversial series The Idol, playing the role of Dyanne. Though the show received mixed and mostly negative reviews, Jennie’s performance stood out, especially her viral dance scenes. She was credited as “Jennie Ruby Jane” and gained praise for her confident on-screen presence.

Despite the show’s failure, fans and critics agree that Jennie showed real potential, and many expect her to appear in more successful roles in the future.

🎬✨ Cha Eun-woo (ASTRO) — Island (2023), A Good Day to Be a Dog (2023)

Cha Eun-woo of ASTRO starred in two very different series in 2023.
In Island, he played a priest in a dark, fantasy-filled world fighting against evil forces. The show was packed with action and showcased his more serious, mature side.

In A Good Day to Be a Dog, he played a sweet high school teacher who falls into a magical curse — every time a girl kisses him, she turns into a dog. The show blends fantasy, comedy, and romance in a fun and emotional way.
These roles helped him grow as an actor, and audiences are looking forward to seeing him in even bigger projects.

🎬✨ Rowoon (SF9) — Destined With You (2023), The Matchmakers (2023)

SF9’s lead vocalist Rowoon is loved for his romantic roles.
In Destined With You, he plays a lawyer who becomes part of an ancient curse. The show, streamed on Netflix, became popular thanks to his charming and emotional performance.

In The Matchmakers, he takes on a historical role, playing a humble man involved in quirky arranged marriage stories. Both roles show his range and acting growth.

🎬✨ Krystal Jung (f(x)) — Cobweb (2023)

Former f(x) member Krystal starred in the 2023 film Cobweb by director Kim Jee-woon. She plays an actress involved in a chaotic movie production set in the 1970s. Her character is elegant and emotionally strong, and her performance received praise for its subtlety and power.

🎬✨ Ok Taecyeon (2PM) — Heartbeat (2023), Vincenzo (2021)

Ok Taecyeon from 2PM has been acting for years.
In Heartbeat, he plays a vampire who wants to become human and find love — a role that mixes fantasy, comedy, and emotion.

Although Vincenzo came out in 2021, his role as a villain is still remembered as one of the best bad guys in recent K-drama history. His roles prove his versatility and strong presence on screen.

🎬✨ Jisoo (BLACKPINK) — Newtopia (2025), Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman (2023), Snowdrop (2022)

Jisoo began her acting career with Snowdrop, but didn’t stop there.

In 2023, she had a special appearance in the fantasy film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman, playing a mystical Korean spirit.
And in 2025, she’s set to star in Newtopia, a zombie survival drama written by the co-writer of Parasite. In this series, she plays a strong main character fighting to survive in a world hit by a deadly outbreak.

Among all BLACKPINK members, Jisoo has had the most developed acting career so far — and her screen presence is only getting stronger.

🎬✨ IU — Broker (2022)

IU, the famous solo singer, starred in the film Broker by Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda. She played a young mother who gives up her baby in hopes of giving it a better life.

The film was shown at the Cannes Film Festival and received a standing ovation. IU’s quiet, emotional performance is still seen as one of her best.

K-pop is no longer just a music genre — it’s a global cultural phenomenon. And K-pop idols are no longer just performers — many of them are now shining as talented actors too.

Lisa, IU, Jisoo, Rowoon, Taecyeon, Cha Eun-woo, Krystal, and T.O.P have already made their mark not only in music history but also in the world of modern film and television.