Lee Joo-bin’s Inspiring Path from Idol Trainee Rejection to Breakout Stardom in Queen of Tears

Lee Joo-bin, the breakout star of the hit K-drama Queen of Tears, almost took a completely different career path before becoming an actress. Before playing Cheon Da-hye in the globally loved series, she was training to debut as a K-pop idol. Her journey from trainee to celebrated actress is a story of resilience and reinvention.

From Trainee to Actress: Lee Joo-bin’s Unexpected Career Shift

Lee Joo-bin was once part of DSP Media, the company behind groups like KARA and Rainbow. She was even in the lineup for Rainbow, but delays in the group’s debut led her to leave the company. Instead of waiting for an uncertain future in music, she decided to pursue acting.

“I trained for years, but when things didn’t go as planned, I realized I had to take control of my own path. Acting gave me a new way to express myself.”

Her early years in acting were tough. She faced multiple rejections and small roles before getting her big break.

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Breaking Through: How Small Roles Led to Big Opportunities

Lee Joo-bin’s first notable role was in the historical drama Mr. Sunshine, where she played a gisaeng (Korean courtesan). Though her screen time was limited, her performance caught the attention of casting directors. She later gained wider recognition in Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area, a Netflix adaptation of the famous Spanish series.

But it was Queen of Tears that truly made her a star. As Cheon Da-hye, the ambitious and complex wife of Hong Soo-cheol (Kwak Dong-yeon), she delivered a performance that earned praise from critics and fans.

“Her acting in Queen of Tears was so natural. You could feel every emotion she portrayed.” – A fan comment on social media.

Why Her Idol Training Helped Her Acting Career

Even though she didn’t debut as an idol, her years of training weren’t wasted. The discipline, stage presence, and camera awareness she developed as a trainee became valuable skills in acting.

• Stage Presence: Her ability to command attention translated well on-screen.
• Emotional Control: Idol training helped her express emotions effectively.
• Work Ethic: The rigorous K-pop trainee system prepared her for long filming hours.

Rising Fame and What’s Next for Lee Joo-bin

After Queen of Tears, Lee Joo-bin’s popularity skyrocketed. She appeared on variety shows like Europe Outside the Tent, where her warm personality won over more fans. Many compare her to actress Park Soo-jin, but she has now established her own identity in the industry.

With her rising fame, she’s expected to take on more leading roles. Some reports suggest she’s already in talks for a new drama later this year.

A Story of Persistence and Reinvention

Lee Joo-bin’s journey proves that success doesn’t always come in a straight line. Her shift from idol trainee to actress shows how setbacks can lead to even greater opportunities.

“I don’t regret my past. Every experience shaped who I am today.” – Lee Joo-bin in an interview.

Also Read: Lee Dong Wook and Lee Joo Bin Share Sweet and Funny Moments with a Face Reader in The Divorce Insurance K-Drama

Her story inspires many aspiring actors and idols who face uncertainty in their careers.

Source: Daum

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