Song Kang’s most recentK-dramasshow how adept he is at delving into the supernatural, but his most underrated series shows an entirely different side to the actor. Song Kang is one ofNetflix’s biggest K-drama stars, having been a prominent figure in shows such asLove Alarm,Sweet Home, andMy Demon. He has also starred in a number of K-dramas outside the streaming platform that have helped showcase the actor’s array of talents in an entirely new light.
Song Kang made his K-drama debut in 2017 inThe Liar and His Loverand featured in several supporting roles before appearing as Hwang Sun-oh inLove Alarm.Song Kang’s K-dramasrange from steamy romances ofNeverthelessto dark supernatural thrillers likeSweet Home,with the actor becoming known for his passionate on-screen relationships and engaging characters. Yet,Song Kang’s most underrated K-drama takes him away from what he is best known for, resulting in a stand-out performance worth revisiting.
Navillera Is Completely Different From Song Kang’s Most Recent K-Drama Roles
It’s His Only K-drama Not Centered On Romance Or Action
Before leaving for his mandatory military service, Song Kang’s two 2024 K-drama roles have become memorable additions to the year’s K-drama calendar, despite being different from each other. His portrayal of Jeong Gu-won inMy Demonshows the actor’s charismatic appeal in full force. On the other hand, in the third and final season ofSweet Home, Song’s dynamic and twisted presence as Cha Hyun-su anchors thethriller K-drama’s conclusion. While these shows are significant additions to Song’s short but packed career,Song Kang’s performances in My Demon and Sweet Home don’t have the same impact as Navillera.
8 K-Drama Genres & Characters I Wanna See Song Kang Tackle After Sweet Home
From a ballet dancer to a demon who gets married, Sweet Home’s Song Kang has tackled a lot of roles already, so what’s next for the K-drama star?
Navillerais one of Song Kang’s only K-dramas that does not revolve around romance or action, already making it a unique addition to his filmography. In the series, the actor plays Lee Chae-rok, a 23-year-old with a waning passion for ballet who finds his love for the dance style reignited after meeting 70-year-old Shim Deok-chul (Park In-hwan). What then ensues is a warm and nostalgic story that shows that no barrier is too big to be broken, whether it be age or circumstance, and that dreams may take time, but they are always worth pursuing.
He Really Shines In The Non-Romantic K-drama Genre
Throughout his career,Song Kang’s K-drama coupleshave helped to put his name on the map. The actor has a knack for bringing the best out of one of the most sought-after parts of K-dramas, creating lasting depictions of love that fans continue to revisit. His romantic characters are extremely varied, withForecasting Love and Weather’s Si-woo being endearing, whileNevertheless’s Jae-eon is a huge red flag. However, what is more impressive is howthe absence of one of Song Kang’s biggest strengths makesNavilleraall the more engaging.
Hong Seung-hee
Shim Eun-ho
Song Kang and co-star Park In-hwan deliver beautiful performances inNavillerathat perfectly mirror the nature of ballet. They use the art form to explain the complexities of life, which can sometimes be hard to share using words alone. This results in something extraordinary and entirely unique. Chae-rok and Deok-chul’s relationship inNavillerais not often seen in K-dramas, especially as the focus of a series. However,Navilleraproves it was a risk worth taking, especially given Song Kang’s passionate performance.
Song Kang’s 2 Best K-Drama Romances Couldn’t Be More Different From Each Other
Two of Song Kang’s K-dramas stand out when it comes to romance, yet his best on-screen couples couldn’t be more different from each other.
Lee Chae-rok could have easily become a stereotype. He is young but in constant battle with the emotions of the past. This is a stark comparison to his co-star, who is pursuing his dreams despite the limits society has placed on his age. Yet,Song Kang ensures that Chae-rok is just as multifaceted as Deok-chul. As a result, the unfolding story feels decidedly human and the vividness ofSong Kang’s charactermakes him one that is an underrated gem in the actor’s stellar career.
Song Kang’s Next K-Drama Should Be A Grounded Story After My Demon & Sweet Home
His Performance In Navillera Is Too Good Not To Be Repeated
While his performances inSweet HomeandMy Demondeserve the praise they have received, the brilliance of Song Kang’s performance inNavilleramakes it clear that the actor should return to similar shows in the future. In theslice-of-life K-drama, he shows such an innate understanding of his character that Chae-rok lifts off the screen, delivering a story that is entirely different from other shows he has done throughout his career.
Song Kang began his mandatory military service on June 02, 2025. His return date is unknown, but he is expected to serve as an active-duty soldier for 18–22 months.
Unfortunately,it will be a while before Song Kang returns to the small screen. His military enlistment isn’t due to end until 2025 or 2026, which makes the wait forSong Kang’s next K-dramalonger than most. When he does, it would be great to see the actor return to what he does best and deliver another intoxicating performance that rivalsMy DemonorSweet Home. However, Song Kang’s return to the slice-of-life genre is well overdue. Hopefully, his next project will see him match the incredible performance he gives in his most underratedK-dramato date.
Navillera
Cast
This drama follows the journey of a 70-year-old man pursuing his lifelong dream of ballet and a 23-year-old talented dancer. Together, they navigate personal challenges and form an inspiring bond as they strive to fulfill their aspirations of becoming ballet dancers.
