A drama becomes a hit not only because of a strong story plot but also due to the actors involved in it. It is said that someone’s loss is someone else’s gain. Many Korean dramas have left their mark on the hearts of the viewers. Some are still popular among the masses even after being aired years ago. They are popular not only among the people of Korea but also worldwide. But did you know that the roles of these actors were initially given to someone else?
1. Won Bin
Drama: Descendents of the Sun
“Descendants of the Sun” aired in the year 2016. The role of Yoo Shi-jin was initially offered to Won Bin, but he turned it down, reportedly due to a conflict in his schedule. It was then given to Song Joong Ki. And the rest is history!
2. Song Joong Ki
Drama: The Moon Embracing the Sun
“The Moon Embracing the Sun” was released in 2012 and became a huge hit in Korea. The part of the Joseon King Lee Hwon was offered to Song Joon Ki. But he declined the role, saying it was too similar to the role he had played in “Tree with Deep Roots” as King Sejong. Kim Soo Hyun then took the role.
3. Jang Hyuk
Drama: Secret Garden
“Secret Garden” aired in the year 2010. The role of Kim Joo-Won was offered to Jang Hyuk, but his management company declined the offer. Hyun Bin accepted the role. This show went on to become a huge hit.
4. Jang Geun Suk
Drama: Boys Over Flowers
The show aired in the year 2009. The role of Goo Joon Pyo was initially offered to Jang Geun Suk. He declined this role as he chose to play the role of Goon woo Kwan in the drama Beethoven Virus. The part was taken by Lee Min Ho, who shot to stardom through this show.
5. Jung Yong Hwa
Drama: The Heirs
The popular drama “The Heirs” was released in 2013. The role of Choi Young-do was first offered to Jung Yong Hwa, but he declined it because he did not want to play the part of a college student again. So, the role was taken up by Kim Woo-bin.
6. Kim Woo Bin
Drama: Pinocchio
Pinocchio aired in the year 2014. The part of Kim Ha Myung initially offered to Kim Woo-bin. He declined the role as he had a conflict of schedule. The role eventually was taken up by Lee Jong Suk.
7. Chun Jung Myung
Drama: Coffee Prince
The show aired in the year 2007. The lead role of Choi Han Kyul was first offered to Chun Jung Myung. But he declined the role due to conflicts of dates. The position was then taken up by Gong Yoo, who made the role even more charming by his sweet smile.
8. Kang Min Hyuk
Drama: Who Are You: School 2015
This drama aired in 2015, Kang Min Hyuk declined the part of York Sung Jae. It is said that CNBLUE had a busy schedule in April, so if he were to take up the role, it was necessary to make adjustments to the schedule. Gong Tae Kwang then took up the role.
9. Eric Mun
Drama: Trot Lovers
Trot Lovers aired in the year 2014. Eric Mun was offered the role of Jang Joon Hyun, but he declined it. Ji Hyun Woo then took up the role. Many people appreciated his part.
10. Hyun Bin
Drama: Kill Me Heal Me
Kill Me Heal Me aired in 2015. The role of Cha-do Hyun was previously offered to Hyun bin, but he declined it. The part then was taken up by Ji Sung. The show gained massive popularity and earned applause for Ji Sung’s performance in the drama.
