These celebrities initially debuted as K-pop idols, but they left their groups to focus on their acting journey.

Did they make the right decision?

Here Are 5 Idols Who Gave Up Their Groups to Become Full-Fledged Actors/Actresses

Son Naeun (Apink)

In April 2022, Naeun parted ways with Apink ahead of the group's 11th debut anniversary. Despite this, she vowed that she would always be Apink Naeun despite not being active with them anymore and asked for the fans' whole support.

She started acting in 2012, but her skills were only recognized fully after starring in the drama "Ghost Doctor," followed by "Agency."

Rowoon (SF9)

In September 2023, Rowoon confirmed his departure from SF9 to focus on his acting career after being with them for seven years. The group then re-organized as an eight-member system, according to FNC Entertainment.

ALSO READ: Rowoon Kicked Out? FNC Announces SF9 To Start Afresh As 8-Member Group

Prior to his announcement, the fandom Fantasy predicted his withdrawal due to his decreasing participation in SF9's activities, whereas his acting projects continued to pile up.

After establishing his name through the drama "Extraordinary You," his name boomed thanks to the hit drama, "The King's Affection."

He currently stars in JTBC's new show, "Destined With You."

Yeonwoo (MOMOLAND)

After suspending her activities due to panic disorder and anxiety in 2019, she left the group in the same year to focus on her acting activities.

In 2017, she began her full-fledged career as an actress with "Happy Talk Season 2." She didn't become popular overnight, but she proved herself by appearing in various dramas, such as "Live On," "Cheat on Me, If You Can," and "Dali and the Cocky Prince."

Yeonwoo finally cemented her name in the acting scene after earning rave reviews for her works "Golden Spoon" and "Numbers."

Jang Gyuri (fromis_9)

In July 2022, Jang Gyuri gave up her team and signed with a new agency to become a fully committed actress.

After leaving fromis_9, her name then rose for her role in tvN's "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" and SBS's "Cheer Up."

In the same year, Jang Gyuri won the "Women's New Performance Award" at the 2022 SBS Acting Awards with "Cheer Up."

She's set to return with a new project, "Player Season 2," in 2024.

Jiho (Oh My Girl)

In May 2022, Jiho departed from Oh My Girl to start anew as an actress.

Jiho joined Park Hyung Sik's agency, P& Studio, and announced that she will be promoted under the name Gong Ji Ho, moving forward.

She is yet to meet the public in various works.

READ MORE: 10+ K-pop Idols Who Left Their Groups in 2022: Apink Naeun, Oh My Girl Jiho, More

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Written by Eunice Dawson.