When IU first started her acting career, she received many mixed reactions because her acting was deemed stiff and lacking emotions. In "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo", IU faced negative comments from the viewers for constantly rolling her eyes. It was not until the drama "My Mister" that IU got rid of the prejudices against her acting and was recognized as a capable actress.

In My Mister, IU plays Lee Ji An, a melancholy young woman who struggles in the midst of a life full of injustices and difficulties. She has complicated relationships with 3 older men. This emotionally challenging role brought IU’s position as an actress to a whole different level, but also caused her to worry a lot when she first received the offer.

Back in 2015, many people felt that the photos in the album jacket for “CHAT-SHIRE” were inappropriate because they were reminiscent of a lolita concept.

Due to the past controversy, IU felt that starring in the drama would not be a good idea because her character is in a relationship with a much older man.

“I am aware of the controversy about an album I released. I knew that if my delivery as a singer and producer was not smooth, someone could get offended. I thought about it a lot, and knew I had to be alert.” — IU

She felt that taking on the role could bring unwanted controversy to the drama, and didn’t want to hurt her costars.

“During our first meeting, I asked the director if he knew about the controversy. I was afraid that I could have a negative impact on the drama, so I wanted to let them know.” — IU

After reading the script and talking to the director, however, IU was convinced.

During that time, IU’s fans were also against her taking on the role, fearing that she would have the Lolita image in the drama .IU’s initial concerns were not groundless because once "My Mister" got broadcast, the first episodes stumbled into controversy.

However, later on, "My Mister" managed to prove that it was not a drama about inappropriate romance. The emotional stories with realistic and vivid characters of My Mister successfully draw empathy from the viewers. IU also delivered an impressive performance. Her portrayal of the character Lee Ji An is so flawless that many viewers cannot imagine any other actress taking on the role.

Source[1]

Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]