Idols Turned Actors
Have you ever found yourself watching a new K-Drama where the lead actors look a little too familiar, but you can’t quite place them? Or you hear them sing for the first time and wonder why on earth they’re not an idol? One Google search will show that many of our favorite K-Drama stars actually got their start in music. Today, we’ll check out some of the best B-side tracks from groups with members who’ve made an impact both on the stage and on our TV screens.
“I Caught Ya” - miss A
In July 2010, the girl group miss A debuted under JYP Entertainment. They remained active until 2015, and JYP eventually announced the group’s disbandment in December 2017. During miss A’s five-year run, they gifted us with a slew of catchy songs, impressive performances, and “The Nation’s First Love,” Bae Suzy. She has starred in a number of TV shows and films since her acting debut in 2011, including fan favorites While You Were Sleeping and Start-Up.
“I Caught Ya” is a B-side from miss A’s last album, Colors. The album experiments with a variety of genres, and this track is no exception. Powerful vocals combine with captivating guitar riffs to create a tantalizing rock song. The lyrics, written by Bae Suzy herself, tell the story of a woman catching her partner “red-handed” in the act of cheating. If you find yourself in the mood for vengeance, “I Caught Ya” is the perfect cathartic sing-a-long.
“All Stars” - ASTRO
ASTRO debuted as a six-member boy group under Fantagio Entertainment in February 2016. They are still an active group, but the members have taken more time to focus on solo and unit work in recent years. One member in particular has made a name for himself in the acting and modeling scene. Lee Dongmin, better known as Cha Eunwoo, has proved to be a triple threat. He’s played lead and supporting roles, but his starring role in True Beauty seems to have skyrocketed him to the top.
“All Stars” is the seventh track from ASTRO’s second album, All Yours. The song is wonderfully upbeat and quintessentially K-Pop. ASTRO show off their charming vocals as they sing lyrics dedicated to a lover who makes everything “more perfect.” One listen to “All Stars” is sure to have you falling head over heels in love with the boys of ASTRO.
“Knock Knock Knock” - I.O.I
If you’re a fan of survival shows, chances are you’ve heard of Produce 101. The reality show from Mnet aired in 2016 and led to the formation of I.O.I, who remained active for one year. The 11-member group contained an all-star line-up, including popular soloists Chungha and SOMI. Another member, Kim Sejeong, has become well-known for her acting skills. Her most recent series, Business Proposal, had K-Drama fans swooning across the globe.
“Knock Knock Knock” is from I.O.I’s debut EP, Chrysalis. The girls showcase sweet harmonies which fit perfectly with the song’s romantic vibe. “Knock Knock Knock” is about waiting for an answer from someone you’ve confessed your feelings for. Don’t let them wait any longer! Let the girls of I.O.I impress you with their elegant vocals in this refreshing B-side track.
“Odd Eye” - SHINee
SHINee made their debut in 2008 under SM Entertainment and remain active to this day as both soloists and as a group. Their longevity and impact have earned them the title “Princes of K-Pop,” but the members are known for more than just musical talents. Choi Minho has become a popular actor, well-known for his roles in Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, The Fabulous, and more.
SHINee released “Odd Eye” in 2015 as the opening track for their fourth studio album, Odd. The group gives listeners a taste of their dark side in this sinister track about feeling as if there’s someone constantly watching you. Written from the stalker’s perspective, it’s impossible to resist the alluring tempo and hypnotic vocals as SHINee sings about having their “eyes on you.” Let yourself be seduced into the world of SHINee and check out “Odd Eye” linked below!
Edited by Kelly Sipko