In the wake of escalating appearance fees for established actors, drama producers are navigating challenges in balancing budgets while meeting viewers’ expectations. The proliferation of OTT platforms has intensified competition for high ratings, prompting demands for renowned actors to attract audiences, further exacerbating cost pressures.
Notable actors like Lee Jung-jae, Kim Soo-hyun, and Park Bo-young have been singled out for their substantial fees amid this backdrop.
Amidst this controversy, K-school dramas have emerged as a compelling genre, impressing audiences both domestically and internationally. School dramas, characterized by ensemble casts and multifaceted storylines, serve as fertile ground for showcasing new talent.
Productions such as “All of Us Are Dead,” “Duty After School,” and “High Cookie” have thrived with lineups of fresh faces like Park Ji-hoo, Romon, Yoo In-soo, and Ahn Ji-ho, who deliver standout performances.
Top actors often gravitate toward roles that afford them prominence, making school dramas, which emphasize group dynamics, ideal platforms for showcasing emerging actors. Despite playing supporting roles, these newcomers leave lasting impressions on viewers, validating their potential and versatility.
In “Pyramid Game,” a recently concluded drama, 24 students aside from the female lead were debutants carefully selected through auditions. This approach not only curtailed costs but also prioritized storytelling and character development. Actors like Jang Da-ah, Shin Seul-ki, and Kang Na-eon made significant contributions to the series, embodying their roles with authenticity.
The trend extends to OTT projects, with new talents like Lee Jung-ha, Go Yoon-jung, and Kim Do-hoon making breakthroughs in “Moving” and Lee Si-woo in Coupang Play’s “Boyhood.”
Industry insiders emphasize the significance of casting newcomers, especially in female lead roles, as a viable strategy for sustainable drama production. The escalating costs associated with top actors underscore the need for a more balanced approach that prioritizes quality storytelling over star power.
