Netflix K-drama “Girigo: Deathly Wishing” goes viral: IG cheat sheet for 5 hidden-gem high school actors — who’s the 185cm heartthrob?
You’ll definitely want to bookmark these rising stars first
A dark-horse K-drama on Netflix has quietly taken over the conversation lately. Yes, it’s “Girigo: Deathly Wishing,” the spine-chilling yet addictive series you can’t stop watching. The plot is tightly paced, while its high school leads are a pleasant surprise, with both the looks and acting chops to match. Here’s a roundup of these rising stars’ IG accounts – hit follow once you’re done reading!
- Related reading: Erika Toda’s new Netflix series “Hell Astrologer” follows the life of a legendary fortune-teller
Directed by Park Yoon-seo of “Moving,” “Girigo: Deathly Wishing” has surged in popularity since premiering on April 24. The story centers on an eerie wish-making curse tied to an app at a high school, blending school bullying, tests of human nature, and supernatural horror to just the right degree. Many viewers have called it a standout horror series of late. Beyond the frightening plot, this new generation of actors also shines, with each bringing a distinct charm that’s impossible to ignore.
Girl-next-door, first-love heroine Se-ah: Jeon So-young
View this post on Instagram
Who’s the female lead in this much-talked-about drama? While watching, you’ll surely be drawn to this girl with her neat short hair and incredibly sweet smile. Rising actress Jeon So-young plays the lead role of Se-ah. Born in 2002, she only debuted last year, yet has already delivered an outstanding performance in her first leading role. Her big, sparkling eyes give her a fresh, girl-next-door feel, and her everyday IG photos have an artsy, literary vibe that has won over plenty of fans.
Horror-film regular Na-ri: Kang Mina
View this post on Instagram
If you follow K-pop, the actress playing Na-ri will surely look familiar. She’s Kang Mina, born in 1999, who appeared on “PRODUCE 101” and debuted as a member of I.O.I and gugudan. Her performances have remained steady since she moved into acting, and her role as a possessed high school student in “Hotel Del Luna” left a lasting impression. This time, as she takes on another thriller set in a school, her acting feels even more mature.
185 cm webtoon heartthrob Joon-woo: Baek Sun-ho
View this post on Instagram
Who is the tall, handsome guy playing Joon-woo? That’s surely the question on everyone’s mind after watching the show. Played by Baek Sun-ho, Joon-woo not only wins the heroine’s heart, but his 185 cm legs and striking looks also send viewers’ hearts fluttering. When he debuted in 2023, his handsome appearance sparked plenty of discussion. He previously trained at HYBE and C-JeS Entertainment and is now focused on acting – a rising star with plenty to look forward to.
The brains of the group, Ha-joon: Hyeon Woo-seok
View this post on Instagram
Ha-joon, the cool-headed, intelligent brains of the group, is another hidden gem you won’t want to miss. Played by Hyeon Woo-seok, he was born in 2001 and stands 182 cm tall. He started out as a model, so naturally, he has great personal style. If you watch Netflix K-dramas often, he may look familiar: he’s appeared in several popular series, including “Love Alarm.” His slightly cool, aloof air has won over so many fans.
Hyung-wook, who gained 20 kg for the role: Lee Hyo-jae
View this post on Instagram
Last is Hyung-wook, who’s always round and lovable, if a little pitiful, in the show. Don’t let his on-screen look fool you: actor Lee Hyo-jae is actually a slim, handsome guy off screen. To portray the role perfectly, the actor, born in 2004, gained 20 kg in one go – seriously dedicated. Though still young, he previously played the younger version of So Ji-sub’s character in the film “The Throne” and won Best New Actor at the 31st Buil Film Awards. His acting skills are not to be underestimated.
Aside from this article, here are a few recent stories worth checking out:
- A tearjerker without playing the victim: 3 reasons why “My Remaining Love” is the most moving dating show of the year
- Ice cream lovers, take note: TEEMTONEfai marks its 10th anniversary with a new physical store on Upper Lascar Row, and the retro golden dragon decor is super photogenic
- Who could resist this metallic robot cat? Yoon Ahn creates an exclusive AMBUSH Barbie, launching on September 4





