Several elements often rise to the top as the most important aspects of any movie or TV show, such as the genre, the plot, or the characters. Audiences naturally look for stories that explore human emotions, but it is the characters who truly serve as the gateway into the story. That connection with the characters is what makes us forget about the screen and compels us to believe in the world being portrayed.
Usually, the main cast members are the ones who take the final bow and receive the greatest support and emotional investment from viewers. However, as an avid K-drama fan, I’ve observed that supporting characters or second leads often receive just as much spotlight as the leading roles.
When asked about a popular cult movie or TV show, most audience members would likely remember the main characters of the story. However, the same cannot always be said for K-dramas. For as long as K-dramas have existed, second lead characters have captivated audiences with their unique traits and compelling personalities.
A true character analysis would even suggest that, in some shows, their presence has made viewers look forward to the series even more. Although they are not the main focus, many second leads have left a strong and lasting impression on the audience.
While the main leads may get the spotlight in a story, I believe the supporting cast also has its fair share of devoted fans. Let’s take a look at some of the second leads who completely stole the show!
Kim Seon-ho in ‘Start Up’
‘Start-Up’ is a romantic K-drama that revolves around a girl named Dal-mi (played by Bae Suzy), who dreams of becoming a successful entrepreneur and ends up in a love triangle. In the story, Kim Seon-ho plays the role of Han Ji-pyeong, the smart second male lead who comes with an emotional and heartbreaking storyline.
Without diving too deep into the whole story, here’s the main point. Since he was an orphan, Dal-mi’s grandmother gave Ji-pyeong a place to stay and fed him. In return, she asked him to become her granddaughter’s pen pal and be her friend. As they wrote to each other, they grew close and eventually fell in love. Years later, Dal-mi wants to find her pen pal. However, due to some unnecessary drama, she ends up believing that the male lead is her pen pal.
As the main characters end up together, Ji-pyeong is left all alone, which is the most frustrating part. While there was nothing wrong with the male lead, Ji-pyeong’s bond with the grandmother, his caring nature toward Dal-mi, and his one-sided love made it impossible not to fall for him.
If I had a say in how the drama should have ended, I would have vouched for the second lead to end up with Dal-mi. Why? Because the entire plot was built around him, his letters, and his love for Dal-mi.
Seo Kang-joon in ‘Cheese in the Trap’
![Herald Review] 'Cheese in the Trap' caught in deluge of complaints - The Korea Herald](https://wimg.heraldcorp.com/content/default/2016/03/02/20160302001277_0.jpg)
This television series follows a young girl navigating college life while managing a delicate relationship with a rich boy who has psychopathic tendencies. Although the story clearly centers on the main leads falling for each other, for some reason, Baek In-ho (played by Seo Kang-joon) felt more real and closer to a compelling male lead.
The romantic setup was there, yet whenever In-ho appeared on screen, I found myself rooting for him more than for the main couple. He was loud, raw, and definitely gave off ‘bad boy’ vibes. I would say the actor brought so much physicality to the role that I wanted him to end up with the female lead.
Kim Hye-yoon in ‘Snowdrop’
When I say that second leads steal the spotlight, I don’t mean it only from a romantic perspective. Sometimes, a well-performed antagonist or supporting character can become the most memorable part of a drama. If you’re a K-pop fan, you must have heard of BLACKPINK’s Jisoo’s acting debut in the drama ‘Snowdrop’.
The story itself was quite thrilling, with a few cliffhangers and elements of friendship and romance. However, what truly stood out to me wasn’t Jisoo’s melodramatic performance or the chemistry between the main leads; it was Kim Hye-yoon’s character.
She played the role of Kye Book-ok, an extremely annoying girl who worked as the telephone operator at an all-girls dormitory. While her role attracted a great deal of hatred and criticism, I believe it showcased her versatility and remains one of her most standout performances. She portrayed the treacherous character so convincingly that it was almost impossible for viewers to sympathize with her.
Every time she made decisions or spoke, it was in ways that the audience strongly disliked. Instead of focusing on the female lead’s tragic story and miserable state, viewers either found themselves hating her choices or investing their time in discussing her possible redemption arc.
Hwang In-youp in ‘True Beauty’
Alright, I’m pretty sure everyone saw this one coming.
Honestly, if you’re into K-dramas, there’s no need to even introduce ‘True Beauty’ to you. And the thing is, it’s not that the main cast was bad or that the plot wasn’t interesting enough. It’s just one of those rare gems of a show where the second lead goes far beyond your expectations.
Adorned with piercings and leather jackets, Han Seo Jun literally screamed ‘bad boy attitude.’ And yet, every fan would vouch for him because, despite his harsh exterior, he had a kind and gentle heart. With his good looks and cute smile, he made our hearts flutter in a way that not even the show’s male lead could.
There are so many second lead characters living rent-free in our hearts!
Tell us, which second lead are you still not over? Who’s your forever favorite?
Written by Diksha Gangadeen
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