Until recently, entertainment programs played a very important part in idol singers making their names known. But now a combination of entertainment and acting skills is needed to create this new brand of 'all-purpose idols.'

The season for an idol singer only shining in music has passed. Now idol singers are making appearances in entertainment shows, dramas, movies, and more. Idol singers who are active in all areas are rising to the spotlight. They have to present their witty banter on entertainment shows, as well as proving their acting skills, even winning acting awards. Not only that, idol singers are playing a big part in entertainment shows that require their body contributions.

ZE:A's Im Siwan and Park Hyungsik went back and forth from entertainment and acting, and have proven themselves in all areas. Im Siwan starred in 2012 MBC drama "Moon Embracing the Sun" and started his acting career. He became well known to viewers with his appearance in this first work. Afterward, he appeared in various other dramas, such as "Waiting for Love" and showed off his increased acting skills. He also landed a role in The Lawyer, which was released in theaters last December; his appearance in the movie earned him approval from the public as a great actor. He has grown significantly as an actor since he started.

But Im Siwan's influence doesn't stop at just acting. He appeared in SBS "Law of the Jungle in Micronesia" and proved his entertainment skills as well. He created a hell for mosquitos, which were bothering his colleagues, in order to allow them to sleep more comfortably. He also supported the show leader and senior colleagues. If before he seemed calm and boring, he certainly changed that view with his appearance on this show.

Park Hyungsik is no different. He starred in SBS drama "Babo Mom," KBS 2TV drama special "Sirius," and cable channel tvN's "Nine" and has steadily grown as an actor. He was able to showcase his charisma even further in last year's SBS drama "The Heirs," earning the viewers' love through his charismatic character. His looks enable to showcase his boyish and manly charm. His steady acting skills has earned him a spot right alongside Im Siwan as an acting idol.

What really helped Park Hyungsik showcase his charm was his appearance in MBC entertainment program "Real Man." The show is a program that allows male celebrities to experience military training. Park Hyungsik, who had no previous experience in such area, was added to the show, adding another dimension of interest for the viewers. His ditzy personality, added onto his hard-working determination, pegged him as a 'baby soldier.' On the show he ate the military food deliciously, and made facial expressions to express the taste. The cute facial images have helped him capture the hearts of older female fans as well. Park Hyungsik's appearances in dramas and "Real Man" has made him the most popular member within ZE:A.

MBLAQ's Lee Joon is yet another idol singer that has one foot in entertainment and another in acting. He showed off his wit on MBC "Radio Star," KBS 2TV's "Happy Together," and "Conditions of Humanity." His 4D charm is especially loved by the public, along with his frankness and show character.

Not only was he funny, but Lee Joon showed a completely different image in his movie appearance. He appeared as Rain's antagonist in Ninja Assassin. Thereafter he also had roles in Jungle Fish and KBS 2TV's "Iris 2," where he showed off his sharp acting skills. He was even able to successfully take on the feat of doing a bed scene in Rough Play, which earned him high praise as an actor.

BEAST's Yoon Doojoon and Lee Kikwang both did well in MBC "Idol Star Athletics" and are currently showing great acting skills. The pair spearheaded the futsal championships in "Idol Star Athletics." Yoon Doojoon, who has middle school soccer experience, showed off his technique in the futsal match, with a heading shot. Lee Kikwang likewise put a goal in during the preliminaries. They proved themselves as athletic idol stars.

Lee Kikwang has appeared in various works, including MBC sitcom "High Kick," drama "My Prince," KBS 2TV "My Friend Is Still Alive." He showcased his cute charm as well as his detailed emotional acting. He's also been confirmed to appear in SBS' new drama "The God's Gift" (working title) which is scheduled to air mid-February. He's grown immensely as an acting idol.

Yoon Doojoon also appeared in numerous works, starting with an MBC sitcom, where he was praised for his natural acting. He then appeared in the movie Marrying the Mafia 5 and worked with very experienced senior actor. He also showcased some action genre skills with his appearance in KBS 2TV's "Iris 2." Although he did receive some negative feedback on his emotional acting, he is successfully pulling off his role in cable channel tvN drama "Let's Eat" as a mysterious character. He's expected to continue grow and become an even more of a successful acting idol.