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The Korean drama industry has been experiencing an unprecedented global boom, with an increasing appetite for fresh talent. While veteran actors continue to dominate, a new generation of male stars born in and after 1991 has emerged, reshaping the industry between 2021 and 2025. Their rise is fueled by successful dramas, social media influence, fashion endorsements, and industry recognition.
We have done some research and compiled for you the list of 20 new top stars.
Here are some of the key indicators of success were have been taken into account for this list:
Social Media Popularity: A rapid increase in Instagram followers signals growing public interest and global reach.
Fashion Industry Recognition: Invitations to major fashion events and brand collaborations showcase an actor’s influence beyond acting.
Acting Awards & Critical Acclaim: Industry validation through prestigious awards helps solidify credibility.
Lead Roles in High-Profile Dramas: Consistently landing lead roles in successful dramas confirms an actor’s marketability and talent.
Global Streaming Impact: The presence of Korean content on international platforms like Netflix and Disney+ amplifies visibility.
Note: this is not a ranking
1. Byeon WooSeok (Born 1991)
VARO Entertainment
Byeon WooSeok saw a meteoric rise with the success of "Lovely Runner" (2024), catapulting his Instagram following to 12 million by early 2025. His engagement rate of 23.31% makes him a sought-after name for brand deals. His entry into WeVerse further proves his dedicated fanbase. While the model-actor had already a fanbase with other popular roles such as "Record of Youth" (2020), "20th Century Girl" (2022), and "Strong Girl NamSoon" (2023), his performance in "Lovely Runner" received critical praise, and has become a model for more than 10 brands after it.
Current Instagram follower count (as of March 21, 2025): 12.3M
2. Lee DoHyun (Born 1995)
YUE HUA Entertainment
Lee DoHyun has gained a lot of fans and followers on Instagram over the past few years. He is now one of the most-followed actors, with over 10 million followers. His success is attributed to his talent and lead roles in various popular dramas, including the globally acclaimed Netflix hits "The Glory" and "Sweet Home." Since first catching viewers' attention in 2019 as a supporting character in "Hotel Del Luna," Lee DoHyun has continued to land more prominent roles and gain popularity, especially from 2021 onward. He is now serving in the military.
Current Instagram follower count (as of March 21, 2025): 10.6M
3. Hwang InYoup (Born 1991)
L'OFFICIAL HOMMES
With 22 million Instagram followers in 2025, Hwang InYoup remains a fan favorite and one of the most followed actors on this list. But also one of the most followed Korean actors, entering the top 10. He gained initial fame from the worldwide popular romantic comedy "True Beauty" (2020-2021) as the second male lead and has since been cast in roles that continue to expand his global appeal. Since 2022, he acted in the Netflix drama "The Sound of Magic", and the dramas "Why Her" and "Family By Choice" solidified his status and strong international presence leading to a steady increase in his social media following.
Current Instagram follower count (as of March 21, 2025): 22M
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