How to find a short drama actor's real name

You've watched 80 episodes, you're emotionally invested, and the app won't even tell you the lead's name. This is the single most common question in short drama fandom, and there's a reason it's hard to answer.

Why apps don't credit actors

Vertical dramas are shot fast — often in under two weeks — by production companies that license shows to multiple apps. Credits get trimmed for the vertical format, and apps have little incentive to promote actors they don't have under contract. So the cast list simply… isn't in the app.

Stage names vs real names

Many performers use a stage name for short dramas, especially those crossing over from theater, modeling, or overseas markets. When fans ask "what is her real name," the answer usually has three layers:

1. The character name you know from the show
2. The stage name the actor works under
3. The legal name, which may never be public — and that's their right

Where to actually look

• This database. We match faces across series and keep one profile per actor, with stage name, real name where verifiably public, socials, and a full filmography. Try the actor directory or search the character name.
• The actor's own socials. Most working short-drama actors maintain Instagram or TikTok accounts and tag their series.
• Cast announcements. Production companies sometimes post casting news; we track those in news.

A note on privacy

We list real names only when actors have made them public themselves — in interviews, on their own profiles, or in official credits. If you're an actor (or represent one) and want a profile corrected or removed, use our contact page; we act on removal requests within 48 hours.

Found the actor? Follow them here and we'll email you one line when they appear in a new release — the button is at the top of every actor profile.