WAKER's Saebyeol Lands Lead Role in "Love Class 3" BL Drama
WAKER member Saebyeol will make his acting debut as the male lead in "Love Class 3," just two years after debuting with the K-pop group.
Star News reported on January 9 that Saebyeol will star opposite GHOST9's Lee Woojin in the third season of the Korean BL drama, produced by Box Media. It's unusual to see active members from different idol groups co-starring in a BL series, raising expectations for their on-screen chemistry.
The announcement comes as WAKER released their third mini album "In Elixir: Spellbound" on January 8, with the group performing title track "LiKE THAT" on KBS2's "Music Bank" the following day.
First Korean BL Drama to Reach Season 3
"Love Class" has become a landmark franchise in Korean BL entertainment. Season 1 premiered in May 2022, followed by Season 2 in August 2023. Both seasons topped Watcha's overall rankings and dominated Naver Series On during their runs, building a dedicated following domestically and internationally.
"Love Class 3" breaks new ground as the first Korean BL drama to produce a third season. The show is set to premiere in the first half of 2026, with simultaneous release planned across approximately 190 countries.
From Idol Trainee to Acting Role
Season 3 focuses on young people pursuing K-pop idol careers, shifting from the campus romance themes of previous seasons. Saebyeol's casting as an idol trainee character draws directly from his real experience in the competitive K-pop industry.
Born Yoon Min Guk on February 20, 2001, Saebyeol competed on Mnet's "Produce X 101" in 2019 as a Source Music trainee before his elimination in episode 5. He debuted with WAKER on January 8, 2024, under HOWLING Entertainment.
WAKER consists of six members: Kohyeon (leader), Kwon Hyeop, Ijun, Leo, Saebyeol, and Sebum. The group released their debut mini album "Mission of School" with title track "Atlantis," followed by "SWEET TAPE" six months later. They recently completed a Japan tour and held their first domestic fan meeting before this month's comeback.
The casting positions Saebyeol among a growing number of fifth-generation idols expanding into acting while maintaining group activities. Taking a lead role in an established drama franchise two years after debut represents a notable career acceleration.
"Love Class 3" premieres in the first half of 2026 on global streaming platforms. Saebyeol will balance drama filming with WAKER's promotional schedule for "In Elixir: Spellbound," continuing the group's momentum in both music and now acting.
