Byeon Woo-seok has emerged as one of the most compelling actors in Korean entertainment
Initially a supporting actor, his leading turn in “Lovely Runner” (2024) transformed him into a national—indeed international heartthrob.
Since then, he has captured both critical acclaim and fan devotion, amassing prestigious awards, high-profile endorsements, and even earning a coveted role in Netflix’s fantasy adaptation Solo Leveling.
This article traces his inspiring journey, philanthropic endeavors, and what lies ahead for this rising star.
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Table of Contents
Byeon Woo-seok Shines on the Cover of Elle Korea
On February 17, 2025, South Korean actor Byeon Woo-seok captured hearts and headlines as he graced the cover of Elle Korea for its March issue.1
The stunning pictorials showcased the actor in a series of exquisite Prada outfits, setting a sophisticated and stylish tone.
Alongside the captivating visuals, the accompanying interview offered a heartfelt and introspective look into Byeon Woo-seok’s thoughts on youth, his career journey, and the aspirations that continue to drive him forward.
A Journey Through Youth and Dreams
In the interview, Byeon Woo-seok shared a poignant perspective on youth, viewing it as a time not solely defined by age but by the presence of dreams and the courage to face challenges.
He expressed that living one’s youth means embracing aspirations and persevering through obstacles, no matter how grand or modest. As translated by Soompi, he stated:
“I believe that as long as you dream and take on challenges, even in that very moment, you are living your youth. It doesn’t have to be something grand; even the smallest things count. So, I think I’ll remain youthful for a long time.”
This optimistic and inspiring perspective resonated with many fans, who admire his ability to find meaning and vibrancy in both small and significant moments.
Byeon Woo-seok’s Place in the South Korean Entertainment Industry
Byeon Woo-seok has steadily built an impressive career, marked by roles that explore themes of growth, love, and self-discovery.2
His performances in 20th Century Girl and Lovely Runner are particularly notable for their emotional depth and relatability.
In these projects, Byeon deftly captures the bittersweet essence of youth, creating characters that linger in the hearts of viewers long after the credits roll.
Through a combination of raw talent and unwavering dedication, Byeon has carved out a unique space in the competitive world of South Korean entertainment.
His journey reflects not only personal success but also a broader narrative of pursuing one’s passions with authenticity and determination.
The Prada Collaboration
For the Elle Korea March issue, Byeon Woo-seok’s collaboration with Prada was nothing short of mesmerizing.
Each ensemble highlighted a different facet of his personality, ranging from bold and avant-garde to classic and refined.
The synergy between Byeon’s natural elegance and Prada’s cutting-edge designs created a visual narrative that celebrated modern sophistication.
Fashion critics and fans alike praised the pictorials, noting how Byeon effortlessly embodied the essence of Prada’s vision while maintaining his distinctive charm. This successful partnership further cemented his status as a style icon in the making.
Byeon Woo-seok’s Reflections on Past Works
In addition to discussing the themes of youth and fashion, Byeon Woo-seok took time to reflect on his past roles and the lessons they’ve imparted.3
He acknowledged that each project, whether a box-office hit or a quieter endeavor, has contributed to his growth as an artist and a person.
“Every role I’ve taken on has taught me something valuable,” he shared. “I carry those experiences with me, and they shape how I approach new challenges. I want to continue choosing roles that push me to grow and that resonate with audiences.”
Looking ahead, Byeon hinted at upcoming projects that promise to showcase new dimensions of his acting prowess.
While remaining tight-lipped about specifics, his enthusiasm was palpable, suggesting that fans have much to look forward to in the coming year.
The Essence of Staying Youthful
A recurring theme in Byeon’s interview was the idea of staying youthful through curiosity, passion, and an open heart.
He emphasized that youthfulness is not confined to a particular stage of life but is a state of mind that can be nurtured indefinitely.
“I think staying youthful means never losing your sense of wonder,” he mused. “It’s about being excited for what’s next, learning new things, and believing in the possibility of beautiful moments, even in the everyday.”
This philosophy, grounded in optimism and gratitude, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the often fast-paced and demanding nature of the entertainment industry. It’s a reminder that true youthfulness comes from within.
The Impact on Fans and Popular Culture
Byeon Woo-seok’s candid and thoughtful insights during the Elle Korea interview struck a chord with fans across the globe.
Social media buzzed with admiration, with many praising his authenticity and the positive messages he conveyed.
The actor’s ability to inspire, not just through his on-screen performances but through his worldview, underscores his growing influence in popular culture.
As his star continues to rise, Byeon remains grounded, focusing on the artistry of his craft and the meaningful connections he forms with his audience.
This genuine approach, coupled with his undeniable talent and striking visual presence, suggests that Byeon Woo-seok is poised to remain a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.
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Byeon Woo-seok’s Wife of a 21st Century Prince
Byeon Woo-seok recently opened up about his enthusiasm for his upcoming drama, Wife of a 21st Century Prince.
In an exclusive interview with Elle Korea, the actor shared what drew him to the project and how he feels about his recent success in the entertainment industry.
Let’s dive into the details of what makes this series special and why Byeon Woo-seok’s involvement is generating so much buzz.
A Successful Year of Achievements
Reflecting on his recent career milestones, Byeon Woo-seok spoke with pride about how far he has come. After a highly successful year, he shared how grateful he is for the opportunities that have come his way.
“I’m grateful for everything that has come my way this year and plan to give my all as I move forward with them.
I believe that giving my best in every moment of life is the only way I can truly be proud of myself. I want to hold on to this mindset and continue to maintain it,” he stated.
This commitment to staying grounded and working hard has clearly paid off, with Byeon Woo-seok now a household name in both domestic and international entertainment circles.
Byeon Woo-seok’s Rise to Stardom with Lovely Runner
For those who might not be familiar with Byeon Woo-seok’s career trajectory, his breakout role came with the time-travel romance drama Lovely Runner.
Adapted from the popular web novel The Best of Tomorrow by Kim Bbang, the series captured hearts with its unique storyline and emotional depth.
Byeon Woo-seok portrayed Ryu Sun-jae, the male protagonist, alongside actress Kim Hye-yoon.
Lovely Runner was a turning point for Byeon Woo-seok, earning him widespread recognition and solidifying his status as a leading man in the industry.
The show’s success extended beyond South Korea, reaching international audiences and further boosting his popularity.
A Journey Through Iconic Roles
Before Lovely Runner, Byeon Woo-seok had already built an impressive resume with roles in several popular dramas. Some of his notable appearances include:
- Strong Girl Namsoon — A spin-off of the beloved Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, where he showcased his versatility.
- Moonshine — A historical drama that allowed him to experiment with a different genre and era.
- Record of Youth — A heartfelt series where he played a compelling supporting role.
- Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency — A period drama with a unique romantic twist.
- Eulachacha Waikiki Season 2 — A comedic role that highlighted his range as an actor.
Each of these roles contributed to Byeon Woo-seok’s development as an actor, helping him hone his craft and build a loyal fanbase.
Upcoming Projects & Fan Buzz
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Netflix’s Solo Leveling: Byeon is officially cast as Sung Jin-woo in this highly anticipated adaptation of the mega-popular webtoon. His casting has generated widespread acclaim for his fitting looks and acting chops.4
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MBC Romance Wife of a 21st Century Prince: Set to air in 2026, this drama stars IU opposite Byeon. Recently, IU sent him a thoughtful coffee-truck gift on set—shared via Instagram—adding sweetness to their on-screen chemistry.
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FAQ’s
Q1: What role made Byeon Woo-seok famous?
His breakout came with Lovely Runner (2024), where he played Ryu Sun-jae and captured hearts worldwide.5
Q2: What are his major recent awards?
Byeon won multiple accolades in 2024, including major categories at the Asia Artist Awards and the People’s Choice award at the Asia Contents & Global OTT Awards. He also won the 2025 Most Popular Actor at Baeksang.6
Q3: Is he starring in Solo Leveling?
Absolutely—he’s confirmed to lead the Netflix live-action adaptation as Sung Jin-woo.7
Q4: When will Wife of a 21st Century Prince air?
It’s slated for 2026 on MBC. Set photos show IU supporting him with on-set gestures like a coffee truck.8
Q5: What philanthropic causes is he involved in?
Byeon has supported pediatric care at Severance Hospital and wildfire relief, earning a place in Hope Bridge Honors Club.
Closing Thoughts
Byeon Woo-seok’s swift rise—from hidden supporting roles to topping brand campaigns and landing global franchise leads—marks him as a defining figure in the current K-Drama wave.
With Solo Leveling on the horizon and continued fan-driven momentum, his star continues to ascend.
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