As Teach You a Lesson continues to dominate both Korean and global Netflix charts, renewed attention has been drawn to actor Kim Nam Gil, who originally received the lead role offer but ultimately declined it. The series’ success has sparked fresh interest in casting stories behind major productions, while other Korean stars who famously passed on blockbuster projects are also being revisited.
Netflix’s original series Teach You a Lesson became an instant hit after its release, topping Netflix Korea’s Top 10 rankings while also climbing the Global Top 10 Non-English TV chart. However, Kim Mu Yeol was not the first choice to play the lead character, Na Hwa Jin. During the early stages of production, the role was reportedly offered to Kim Nam Gil twice, but he declined both offers. At the time, controversies surrounding the original webtoon—including debates over corporal punishment as well as accusations 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’s better not to do it.” The role eventually went to Kim Mu Yeol, and the series became a major success immediately after release. As a result, Kim Nam Gil’s decision resurfaced 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 one another.
Actor Jang Hyuk also recently confirmed that he had originally been cast as the male lead in SBS’s hit drama Secret Garden. Appearing on the web variety show Class of ’26 Ji Won, he responded to a question about the long-standing rumor by saying, “That was true.” Actress Ha Ji Won also recalled, “At first, it was.” The lead role of Kim Joo Won ultimately went to Hyun Bin, and Secret Garden became a nationwide phenomenon, recording a peak viewership rating of 35.2 percent. Hyun Bin’s portrayal of Kim Joo Won also produced several iconic catchphrases that remain famous today, cementing the drama as one of his signature works.
Won Bin is another actor often mentioned when discussing missed blockbuster opportunities. During the early planning stages of KBS2’s Descendants of the Sun, he was reportedly the first choice for the lead role of Yoo Shi Jin. However, after Won Bin declined the offer, the role eventually went to Song Joong Ki. Industry insiders suggested that the lengthy overseas filming schedule, the drama’s fully 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, achieving a peak viewership rating of 38.8 percent 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