When it comes to K-pop, we’re all familiar with the concept of stage names. Whether it’s to stand out or just a better fit for their image, idols often use stage names rather than their birth names. But did you know that many beloved K-drama stars also go by professional or stage names?

Some stars adopt these names at the start of their careers to help them stand out, while others use them to avoid confusion with existing celebrities. In many cases, the names they choose carry deep meanings or reflect the image they wish to portray. Idol-turned-K-drama stars like IU and Cha Eun Woo are prime examples, many fans even mistake these popular stage names for their real ones.

Let’s discover the real names of some of the popular South Korean actors who are using professional or stage names:

Hyun Bin [Kim Tae Pyung]

Gong Yoo [Gong Ji Cheol]

Ji Sung [Kwak Tae Geun]

Park Seo Joon [Park Yong Kyu]

Ha Jung-woo [Kim Sung Hoon]

Choi Jin Hyuk [Kim Tae Ho]

Kang Ha Neul [Kim Ha Neul]

Ma Dong Seok [Lee Dong Seok]

Yoo Ah In [Uhm Hong Sik]

Kim Woo Bin [Kim Hyun Joong]

Lee Do Hyun [Lim Dong Hyun]

Lomon [Park Solomon]

Stage names in the South Korean entertainment industry are far more than just catchy monikers; they are part of a star’s identity, brand, and legacy. In some cases, fans may never even hear the actor’s real name unless they go looking for it. That just goes to show how powerful and enduring a well-chosen professional name can be.

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