Idol-actor Park Hyungsik will take his first stab at acting in a historical drama as the lead role. 

On Nov. 2, a broadcast insider stated that Park Hyungsik has been casted as the role of Sam Mekjong. "Hwarang" takes place in the Silla dynasty and Hyungsik plays the role of the king who expanded the Silla dynasty's territory. Fans can expect to see Hyungsik as a young, energetic king.

A member of the production team told news sources that they are planning to air the drama in China as well, so they chose to cast someone who has strong acting skills and is known internationally. Hyungsik played a role alongside Lee Min Ho and Kim Woo Bin in "Heirs," which was wildly popular in China, so he was one of the top choices for the role. 

In addition to "Heirs," Hyungsik has also received praise for his acting in the dramas "What's With the Family?" and "High Society."