Actors who turned down successful roles who became big hits: Kim Nam Gil, Jang Hyuk, Won Bin and others

As Teach You a Lesson continues to dominate the Korean and global Netflix charts, renewed attention has been drawn to actor Kim Nam Gil, who originally received the offer for the lead role but ultimately turned it down. The success of the series has sparked new interest in casting stories behind major productions, while other Korean stars who famously abandoned successful projects are also being revisited.

The Netflix original series Teach You a Lesson became an instant hit upon its release, topping Netflix Korea’s Top 10 chart and also topping the global Top 10 Non-English TV chart. However, Kim Mu Yeol was not the first choice to play the main character, Na Hwa Jin. During the early stages of production, the role was reportedly offered to Kim Nam Gil twice, but he rejected both offers. At the time, controversies surrounding the original webtoon, including debates over corporal punishment and allegations of racial and gender discrimination, were said to have influenced his decision.

Kim Nam Gil later explained his position, saying: “If many people feel uncomfortable about a project, I believe it is better not to do it.” The role eventually went to Kim Mu Yeol and the series became a huge hit soon after release. As a result, Kim Nam Gil’s decision re-emerged as a hot topic, although director Hong Jong Chan clarified in an interview that it was simply a natural part of the casting process and added that he and Kim Nam Gil continue to support each other.

Actor Jang Hyuk also recently confirmed that he was originally cast as the male lead in SBS’ hit drama Secret Garden. Appearing on the web variety show Class of ’26 Ji Won responded to a question about the long-standing rumor by saying, “It was true.” Actress Ha Ji Won also recalled, “It was at first.” The lead role of Kim Joo Won eventually went to Hyun Bin, and Secret Garden became a nationwide phenomenon, recording a peak viewership rating of 35.2%. Hyun Bin’s portrayal of Kim Joo Won also produced several iconic catchphrases that remain popular today, cementing the drama as one of his signature works.

Won Bin is another actor often mentioned when talking about missed opportunities for success. During the early planning stages of KBS2’s Descendants of the Sun, she was reportedly the first choice for the lead role of Yoo Shi Jin. However, after Won Bin rejected the offer, the role ultimately went to Song Joong Ki. Industry insiders suggested that the long overseas filming schedule, the drama’s completely pre-produced format and the military officer character may have contributed to his decision. Descendants of the Sun later became one of the biggest Korean dramas of all time, reaching a peak viewership rating of 38.8% and enjoying enormous popularity across Asia.

As these examples show, casting decisions often take unexpected turns. Years later, when a project becomes a blockbuster, the stories behind the actors who almost starred in these iconic productions become fascinating topics for both fans and the entertainment industry.

Sources: Daum

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