Idol-actors Yoochun, Yunho, Jung Yong-hwa, Yim Si-wan, Chansung, and D.O (OSEN)

Allaying initial concerns, a number of idol group members have successfully transformed themselves into actors on the silver screen or on TV programs.

Reports have it that critics and viewers, who once worried about their career change, are highly praising their acting skills.

As they have found success as actors, the pop idols are expected to win awards in upcoming drama and film festivals, show biz watchers said.

JYJ member and actor Yoochun has already been chosen as Best New Male Actor by The Korean Film Critics Association in recognition of his acting in the film “Sea Fog.”

Despite the film being his big screen debut, Yoochun was able to blend in with senior actors by naturally portraying his character. Prior to his movie debut, he had acted well in various TV dramas including “Sungkyunkwan Scandal,” “Miss Ripley” and “Missing You.”

The TVXQ member Yunho is also being acknowledged for his acting skills. His appearances in the recently ended period drama “The Night Watchman” gained exceptional attention.

Yunho performed fierce action scenes and effectively portrayed the delicate and complicated emotions of his character. Yunho’s scenes -- crying after his sister’s death, being betrayed by the king and confessing his affection for the female lead Ko Sung-hee -- gained a great deal of praise.

2PM’s youngest member Chansung is also making his mark as an actor, having participated in two movies this year.

In the film “Red Carpet,” released on Oct. 23, Chansung played the role of “Kim Dae-yoon,” the youngest staff member in an erotic movie production team. He also acted in “Five Siblings in Deoksu Village,” which is scheduled to be released in December.

The singer Jung Yong-hwa is also widely praised for his acting skills. His past dramas “You’re Beautiful” and “Heartstrings” remain popular overseas.

During the filming of his most recent drama, “Three Musketeers,” the production staff complimented him as “a diligent, passionate and developing actor who is perfect for his drama character.”

ZE:A member Yim Si-wan is often considered the most successful idol-actor of the year. His movie “The Attorney” was one of the most successful films in Korea, attracting more than 11 million viewers.

Before his big-screen debut, Yim displayed his acting prowess in “Triangle” and “The Moon Embracing the Sun.” He is currently participating in tvN’s drama “Misaeng,” receiving empathy from office workers.

Do Kyung-su, also known as D.O. and a member of the idol group EXO, is also gaining praise from viewers. Following his appearance in SBS’ drama “It’s Ok, That’s Love,” the actor is now venturing into the movie industry, participating in the movie “Cart.”

During a film production press conference, the actor was complimented by senior actresses for his modesty and natural acting skills. “I was so surprised to see how good he is at acting that I wanted to give him a hug,” actress Kim Young-ae said.

“Having idol group members participate in the screen industry should no longer be a controversy. Rather, they prove their sincerity as actors and counterbalance the grave atmosphere in several films,” a spokesperson of the film industry was quoted as saying.

“D.O. in ‘Cart’ and Yoochun in ‘Sea Fog’ are the representative examples,” he added.

“They are also natural in front of the camera and their acting skills are no longer something to be skeptical about. They also lead the success of the films,” he said.

With more skilled idol-actors on the way, viewers and film experts are looking forward to the development and success of the TV and movie industry.

By Kim Min-jin (minjin103@heraldcorp.com)