Stars are stars not only because they're looked upon like the stars in the night sky, but because they have worked hard to rise to that place. Many celebrities dream of becoming a star, but sometimes it ends up being just that - a dream. However, that far, far away dream sometimes becomes a reality. Who were the rising stars of 2013 that achieved their dreams?

Jung Woo's Stardom - 'Respond 1994'

Born in 1981, 32 year old Jung Woo rewrote his filmography through one work of drama. He starred in tvN's "Respond 1994" and caught the attention of many female viewers, thereby rising up to wear the title 'actor Jung Woo' proudly.

Preceding "Respond 1994," Jung Woo has starred in numerous films and dramas in lead and supporting roles. His first work was in 2001, and in 12 years he has finally achieved his status as a star. Just the name "Jung Woo" is enough to elicit a squeal from female fans.

Kim Woo Bin's Stardom - 'The Heirs'

Right before the year came to an end, another star emerged, and that star is none other than Kim Woo Bin. He took on the role of Choi Young Do in SBS drama "The Heirs," and showed off his rough charm. He stole the hearts of female audiences with this one work. And his former model background sure added to his charm as an actor.

One of the reasons why Kim Woo Bin was noted was because of his role in the movie Friend 2. The wide range of characters he was able to pull off was impressive. He went from 'town gangster' to a rich family's heir. Who else could do that?

Ryu Soo Young's Stardom - 'Real Men'

If there's one greatest decision Ryu Soo Young has made, it was his decision to appear in MBC's "Real Men." It's true that he used to have a cold image. Thanks to his good looks, all his flaws were seeminly invisible.

But in "Real Men," Ryu Soo Young showed off not only a masculine side to him, but also a personable charm, which caught the viewers' attentions. Fitting with his debut in a cooking program in 1998, he demonstrated his knowledge of various foods, and even wrapped up his abilities by appearing in a CF.

Sam Hammington's Stardom - 'Real Men'

This Australian man really took over Korea. Not unlike Ryu Soo Young, Sam Hammington really turned his life around with "Real Men." A foreigner in Korea, Sam Hammington started off as a comedian, but rose to popularity with his appearance on "Real Men."

When we compare Sam Hammington's appearance in various CFs to now, we have a clear picture of the "Korean Dream" achieved. He gained popularity, got married, and undoubtedly had the most memorable year in 2013.

Park Hyungsik's Stardom - 'Real Men'

Idol group ZE:A's Park Hyungsik also reversed his destiny by appearing in "Real Men," not unlike both Ryu Soo Young and Sam Hammington. After MBLAQ's Mir left the show, Hyungsik took his place. He took on the role of the 'baby soldier' on the show, and made huge contributions with his appearance on the show.

Although Hyungsik had previously appeared in a few dramas, they didn't have as big of an impact as his appearance on "Real Men." He was able to show off his cute and ditzy character, and fully implanted himself in the viewers' minds.

Clara's Stardom - Leggings First Pitch

Actress and TV personality Clara had a great year in 2013 as well. Her rise to stardom took place on the ground. She was chosen to throw the first pitch at a professional baseball game. No one could have expected that she would appear in leggings, and interest in her just exploded.

Clara had spent long days in the shadows, but she turned her life around with this big hit move. If there ever were controversies surrounding her popularity, it's gone now. And most people would now acknowledge her as 'sexy star Clara.'

Crayon Pop's Stardom - Jumping, Jumping!

Crayon Pop's popularity is now jumping! Crayon Pop shook up the music industry with their song "Bar Bar Bar," a first since their debut 2 years ago.

Their 5 cylinder dance exploded in popularity not only in Korea, but also worldwide through YouTube. They even made international fans 'jump.' While it is true that they were caught up in several controversies, their popularity is undeniable.

Wheesung's Stardom - 'Hidden Singer'

Out of all stars returning from serving in the military, there's none that regained his popularity as quickly as Wheesung. He's currently more popular than before he left for military duty. He returned this past summer, and appeared on JTBC's "Hidden Singer." He caught the public's attention.

Earlier this month he won on KBS 2TV's "Immortal Song" and "Hidden Singer," and is still on the rise with his popularity. Thanks to that, even his new album is riding high on music charts. Considering that he's become more popular than ever, Wheesung is surely a rising star this year.

Are there any other rising stars in 2013 that we missed?