Top K-Drama Actor Dubbed “Too Ugly” For New Role As Male Lead Of Webtoon Adaptation

Actor Hwang In Youp is facing backlash after reports of his casting in a drama adaptation of the popular webtoon Romance 101. He will play the main lead, Yu Yeon.

Online, some netizens have criticized the casting choice, arguing that Hwang In Youp does not match the original male lead’s visuals. In the webtoon, the character is widely known for his strikingly handsome appearance, with many readers considering his looks a key part of his appeal.

Yu Yeon, Ba Reum, Jae Hyun.

As a result, comments questioning the casting quickly spread across communities, with some bluntly stating that the actor was “not handsome enough” to portray the role.

근데 이런건 배우가 컷해야되는 거 아님? 하씨발못생긴게욕심도많아가지고… https://t.co/c8rVg9OmKK

— 쮸빙이 (@zzubingxcx) April 2, 2026

Shouldn’t the actor himself drop out in such cases? Can’t believe someone so ugly is so ambitious.

zzubingxcx

The criticism has sparked debate over how closely live-action adaptations should resemble their original webtoon characters.

바른 연애 길잡이 실사화랜다 앞으로 웹툰 실사화 하지마 진짜 pic.twitter.com/5msMoPPW6m

— 6시내고양 (@6hourmyhome) April 2, 2026

This is apparently the live-action adaptation for Romance 101. Let’s just not make live -actions next time.

6hourmyhome

이쯤되면 자기가 거절했어야하는거아님? https://t.co/o0iMKkrQ2v

— 난난 (@nannan_ing) April 2, 2026

At this rate, shouldn’t he have rejected the role himself?

nannan_ing

The situation highlights a recurring issue in webtoon-to-drama adaptations, where casting decisions are frequently scrutinized against idealized character designs, often leading to divided reactions among fans.

In the original Romance 101, Yu Yeon is portrayed as the ultimate campus heartthrob, a quiet, reserved character whose strikingly handsome looks are repeatedly emphasized as a key part of his identity and appeal. Known for his cold demeanor and top-tier visuals, he quickly became a fan-favorite male lead, with many readers viewing his appearance as central to the story’s dynamic.

With Hwang In Youp cast as Yu Yeon and Jo Yi Hyun taking on the role of Ba Reum, expectations for the live-action adaptation are particularly high.