The Best Korean Actors
The best of the best Korean actors
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- Jin-mo Ju first became interested in acting when he watched Richard Gere in "Officer and a Gentleman" at the age of ten. After graduating from Koyang High School, Ju entered the Incheon National University as a physical education major. Ju then entered South Korea's mandatory military service. After leaving the military, Ju pursued a job in civil service spending most of his time at the library studying for the civil service exam. It was during this time when a relative connected to a modeling business suggested that Ju take photos for a modeling job to make some extra cash. After landing several modeling gigs, Ju was cast as an extra in a Bacchus Energy Drink commercial in 1997. The original lead actor had difficulties on the set and Ju was selected by the director on set during filming to star in the commercial. Ju was then told by the director that he had a great voice and that he should become an actor. Ju then decided to pursue acting professionally, he worked backstage at a theater handing out pamphlets and closing the curtains; eventually Ju became a member of the theater company and his training as an actor began. It was also during this time that Ju was able to see and be inspired by the legendary South Korean actor Min-sik Choi when Choi performed on stage at the theater company.
In 1999, Ju made his film debut as the lead in Dance Dance. His next role catapulted Ju into instant stardom when he was cast alongside Min-sik Choi and Do-yeon Jeon in the erotic thriller Happy End. In 2000, Ju's role in Happy End earned him the best supporting actor award at the Grand Bell awards-the Korean equivalent of the Academy Awards. His third role was in 1999's TV mini-series Sad Temptation about a young homosexual man. For this role Ju earned a nomination for the 36th Baeksang Arts Awards as the best new actor. Ju then immersed himself in Kim Ki Duk's experimental film Real Fiction. In 2001, Ju was cast as Choi Jung in the big budget historical action film Musa alongside Korean Super star Woo-sung Jung and Chinese actress Ziyi Zhang. After completing the film Wanee & Junah in 2001, Ju faced difficult times professionally. His next two lead roles in films were cancelled due to a lack of funding.
Ju then took a series of roles on television series; he starred in Punch, Bichunmoo, Fashion 70's, and the Queen of the Game. His next two film roles were in the comedy Liar and 200 Pounds Beauty-which became a box office hit. Ju's next film role was in 2007's melodrama Sarang for which Ju achieved great critical success. The role in Sarang also garnered Ju two awards at the 28th Blue Dragon Film Awards as Best Actor and for Popular Star. In 2008, Ju starred in Ha Yoo's A Frozen Flower. Ju's emotionally complex and powerful performance as the love torn King in the historical drama earned Ju critical success and a box office hit. At the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards, Ju received the best actor award for A Frozen Flower beating out the veteran Korean film actor Kang-ho Song. In 2010, Ju starred in A Better Tomorrow, a remake of John Woo's 1986 smash hit of the same name. In 2012 Ju starred in the historical film Russian Coffee. In 2013, Ju starred alongside popular Korean actress Ji-Won Ha in the historical TV series Empress Ki and also in 2013, Ju starred in Kyung-Taek Kwak's gangster film Chingu 2. - Jun Kwang-ryul was born on 11 February 1959 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Passionate Love (2013), Baker King, Kim Tak Goo (2010) and Warrior Baek Dong Soo (2011).
- Cha Seung-won was born on 7 June 1970 in Anyang, Korea. He is an actor, known for Splendid Politics (2015), Jail Breakers (2002) and My Son (2007).
- Kim Rae-won was born on 19 March 1981 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Punch (2014), My Little Bride (2004) and Shik-gaek (2008).
- Huh Joon-ho is a veteran Korean actor who began his career in theater since 1986, following in the footsteps of his father and older brother. He became active in film and television in 2003 in the box office hit SILMIDO for which he won Best Supporting Actor at the Grand Bell Awards. Since then, he appeared in many hit TV shows and films including ALL IN, HOTELIER, PRECIOUS FAMILY, JUMONG. Among these, Huh was acclaimed for his charismatic performance in ALL IN, with its final episode reaching a peak viewership rating of 47.7% in Korea. Huh received Best Supporting Actor at SBS Drama Awards for the detailed portrayal of a vicious yet loyal character in the drama. With over 30 years in his acting career, Huh is one of the most revered actors in Korea. Huh can be seen in his most recent leading role in the globally popular Netflix Original series KINGDOM, now in Season 2 as of March 2020. Huh currently lives in Las Vegas and runs an LA-based musical & acting academy to train and mentor the next generation of talent, while actively going back & forth to Korea for his own projects.
- Lee Jae-yong was born on 21 March 1963. He is an actor, known for Save the Green Planet! (2003), Steel Rain (2017) and Korea-Khitan War (2023).
- So Ji-seob was born on 4 November 1977 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Rough Cut (2008), Ghost (2012) and I'm Sorry, I Love You (2004). He has been married to Jo Eun-Jung since 7 April 2020.
- Choi Min-shik first made a name for himself in theater before breaking into the film world with a role in Park Chong-won's acclaimed film 'Our Twisted Hero' (1992). In the mid-nineties he continued to act in theater productions as well as in several TV dramas, including Moon Over Seoul with Han Seok-gyu. 1997 marked his return to motion pictures, with a role as a tough-talking police investigator in Song Neung-han's No. 3 (1997). His biggest role came in 1999, when he was cast in Korea's most successful film ever, Shiri (1999). His portrayal of a North Korean agent garnered him much praise and a Best Actor Award from the 1999 domestic Grand Bell Awards.
After starring in a theater production of Hamlet in spring of 1999, Choi took on the role of a husband who discovers his wife's infidelity in Happy End (1999), and in early 2001 starred as a third-rate gangster opposite Hong Kong actress Cecilia Cheung in the acclaimed Failan (2001). In 2003 he starred in the now classic Oldboy (2003). - Sol Kyung-gu was born on 1 May 1968 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Memoir of a Murderer (2017), Oasis (2002) and Peppermint Candy (1999). He has been married to Song Yun-ah since 2009. They have one child.
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Lee Byung-hun was born in 1970 in Seoul, South Korea, and grew up in a wealthy family, thanks to his father, who was a successful businessman. He never dreamed of pursuing acting until a friend of his mother's suggested it. He auditioned for the KBS television network in 1991 and was accepted. His first project was a short lived TV series called "Asphalt My Hometown". Lee became popular, especially with the female crowd, in his next KBS project, "Tomorrow Love", in 1992. Though he continued to do TV series' throughout the 90s, he also tried his luck in feature films. Many of his earlier films were flops, until 2000, when he appeared in "J.S.A. Joint Security Area". The film became his first major blockbuster. Unfortunately, Lee's father passed away that same year. Over the years, Lee's popularity continued to grow, with successful TV series', like "Beautiful Days" and "All In", and features, such as "A Bittersweet Life" and "The Good, The Bad, The Weird". Lee was becoming an international celebrity. His success continued rising with the highly anticipated TV show "Iris" and his other feature films "I Saw the Devil" and "Masquerade". Having solidified his position as one of Asia's biggest stars, he is the only actor to sell out the Tokyo Dome with 45,000 screaming fans. In 2012, he was one of the first two Korean actors ever to be honored with a hand and foot print ceremony at The TLC Chinese Theater.
Lee's first foray into Hollywood films came in 2009 with a starring role in "G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra." Following the global success of that film, he signed on for "G.I. Joe 2: Retaliation," which was released in March 2013. His first period piece feature, "Masquerade" was released in late 2012, and was met with stellar reviews from both audiences and critics, and became the highest grossing period piece in Korean history. He next starred in "Red 2" opposite Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, John Malkovich, and Anthony Hopkins. The film premiered in Korea on July 18, 2013. Korea became the second highest grossing market for the film behind the US. In 2015, Lee has two Korean films, "Insiders" and "Memories of the Sword", along with Hollywood blockbuster Terminator Genisys (2015), where he plays a T-1000 robot. Lee has since filmed an independent US film, "Misconduct", opposite legendary actors Anthony Hopkins and Al Pacino, which is due for a 2016 release.- Kam Woo-seong was born on 1 October 1970 in Okcheon County, North Chungcheong, South Korea. He is an actor, known for The King and the Clown (2005), Should We Kiss First (2018) and Spider Forest (2004).
- Song Kang-ho never professionally trained as an actor, beginning his career in social theater groups after graduating from Kimhae High School. Later, he joined Kee Kuk-seo's influential theater company with its emphasis on instinctive acting and improvisation, which proved to be Song's training ground. Although regularly approached to act in films, he always turned down the opportunity until taking a role as an extra in Hong Sang-soo's The Day a Pig Fell Into the Well (1996). In the following year, after portraying one of the homeless in Jang Sun-woo's docu-drama Bad Movie (1997), he gained cult notoriety for his scene-stealing performance in Neung-han Song No. 3 (1997) as a gangster training a group of young recruits, winning his first Best Actor award.
Since that time he was cast in several supporting roles before his high-profile role as Han Suk-kyu's secret-agent partner in Kang Je-kyu's blockbuster thriller Shiri (1999). In early 2000, Song became a star with his first leading role in the box office smash The Foul King (2000), for which he reputedly did most of his own stunts. But it was with his award-winning role as a North Korean sergeant in Joint Security Area (2000) that Song has come to the forefront as one of Korea's leading actors. Song also starred in Park Chan-wook's Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002), which centers around a father's pursuit of his daughter's kidnappers.
In 2002 Song starred in another major production by Myung Film titled YMCA Yagudan (2002), about Korea's first baseball team, which formed in the early 20th century. He came to international attention with the film The Host (2006), which reunited him with director Bong Joon Ho. With Snowpiercer (2013), his third collaboration with Bong, he made his debut in an English-language film with international theatrical distribution.
In 2008 he starred in Kim Jee-woon's film The Good the Bad the Weird (2008), where he played Tae-goo, the motorcycle-riding, walther-wielding counterpart to "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly"'s Tuco.
In 2015, Song Kang-ho works on 'The Throne', a period drama of palace intrigues par excellence and whose film is nominated that year for best non-English-language film and costumes at Satellite awards. Already in 2016 he makes his fourth collaboration with Korean director Kim Jee-woon and is none other than the critically acclaimed film "The Empire of Shadows." A period drama with a background of espionage intrigue with a very good technical bill. - Actor
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Kim Nam-gil is a South Korean actor, producer, singer and philanthropist. He is best known from leading roles in disaster blockbuster Pandora (2016); crime thriller The Shameless (2015); adventure film The Pirates (2014); period drama Portrait of a Beauty (2008) and the crime-comedy television drama The Fiery Priest (2019). His breakthrough role was Bidam in the hit television period drama The Great Queen Seondeok (2009).
Kim Nam-gil first debuted on television with a minor role in the 1998 KBS drama "School 1" (as the character Min-soo). Five years later, Nam-gil would win the 31st audition for MBC Television. He then performed in various minor roles for MBC. Meanwhile, in 2005, Kim Nam-gil changed his name to the seemingly more exotic name of "Lee Han." In 2006, Kim Nam-gil made the bold decision to accept his first lead role in the controversial, but critically praised independent film, No Regret (2006). Kim Nam-gil played the homosexual character Song Jae-min in "No Regret". Although the film "No Regret" received high praise from movie critics & film festivals, it failed to boost Kim Nam-gil's popularity or lead to immediate stardom. Instead, Kim Nam-gil took more supporting roles in television dramas and commercial films. Prior to the release of the film Kang Chul-jung: Gonggongui jeog 1-1 (2008), Kim Nam-gil stopped using his stage name "Lee Han" and reverted back to his birth name. Nam-gil made this decision after receiving advice from Kang Woo-suk (the director of "Public Enemy Returns"). In 2009, Kim Nam-gil was cast in the MBC drama The Great Queen Seondeok (2009) as Bidam. The production company felt the character of Bidam was somewhat the secret weapon in securing the success of the television series. The production company proceeded to promote his character to Korean media outlets and press agencies. Eventually, the drama series became the most watched drama series of 2009, regularly receiving ratings in excess of 40%. With the runaway success of The Great Queen Seondeok (2009), Kim Nam-gil's popularity also skyrocketed. He was frequently voted the sexiest man by Korean women, received many commercial endorsement offers, and flooded with scenarios for various upcoming films and drama series.
Kim is also the founder and CEO of a non-profit organization Gilstory that focuses on preserving cultural heritage, promoting arts and raising special purpose relief funds.- Shin Hyun-june (b. March 24, 1968) was an athletics major at Yonsei University before starting a career in modeling and acting in 1989. His film debut came in veteran director Im Kwon-taek's stylish Son of a General series, set under the Japanese occupation in the 1920s. For the first half of the 1990s he continued working with Im Kwon-taek and also acted in Hwa-om-kyung, Jang Sun-woo's award winning film based on the Avatamska Sutra. In recent years Shin has turned more towards popular cinema, finding his greatest success in fantasy/sci-fi works such as The Gingko Bed, The Soul Guardians, and the Korean-Chinese coproduction Bi-chun-moo. His most recent work was the third film by director Jang Jin (The Spy), where he acted opposite TV star Won Bin and Shin Ha-kyun. He drew praise in his film for his acting, and the film went on to become hugely successful at the box-office. His next feature will be titled Blue, directed by Lee Jeong-guk.
- Choi Min-Soo is a well-known South Korean actor who is famous for his image of being a 'tough guy hunter'. He has acted in numerous films and television shows. The actor has appeared in the TV series 'Han River Ballad', 'Man Who Dies to Live', 'Happy Ending', 'The Legend', 'Father's House', 'Road No. 1', 'Faith', 'Sandglass' and 'Pride and Prejudice'. His popular big screen projects include 'The Myth', 'Libera Me', 'Sword in the Moon', 'How to Steal a Dog', 'A Good Day to Fall in Love', 'Son of God', 'The Marriage Life', 'Life of Hollywood Kid', 'Rehearsal' and 'Terrorist'. Choi Min-Soo is one of the most respected and adored actors in Korea. He has earned numerous awards and honors in his entertainment career. The South Korean star won the 'Golden Acting Award' at the 2014 MBC Drama Awards function for 'Pride and Prejudice.' He was awarded the 'Best Film Actor Award' at the 37th Baeksang Arts Awards for 'Libera Me.' He also received the 'Best Actor' award at the event of 34th Grand Bell Awards for 'Terrorist.' He won the 'Best TV Actor' award at the 22nd Korea Broadcasting Awards for his performance in 'Sandglass' as well.
- Jang Hyuk was born on 20 December 1976 in Busan, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Windstruck (2004), The Slave Hunters (2010) and Shine or Go Crazy (2015). He has been married to Yeo-Jin Kim since 2 June 2008. They have three children.
- Actor
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Soo-Hyun Kim is one of the brightest stars in East Asia. He became a household name in South Korea in 2011, playing a country bumpkin who turned out to be a musical genius in the teen-age drama 'Dream High'.
His popularity sky-rocketed in 2012 when he starred in as the young king Lee Hwon in the drama 'Moon Embracing the Sun', which achieved a peak recorded viewer rating of 42.2 per cent and earned the 'national drama' status.
In 2014, Soo-Hyun Kim enjoyed so much popularity all over East Asia after playing the leading role of Do Min Joon in the drama 'You Who Came from Star', which got an average viewer rating of 24.02 per cent in South Korea, and had over two billion hits on the Chinese streaming site Iqiyi.- Made his film debut at the age of 5 in 1957 and has been one of the most popular actors in Korea ever since. Graduated from Korea University of Foreign Studies majoring in Vietnamese. Won the best actor award in Asia-Pacific film festival in 1993 for his role in the film 'White Badge' (based on the novel of the same title about the Vietnamese war viewed from eyes of a Korean soldier). He's one of few Korean actors who made a successful transition from a child prodigy to a mature adult actor. He is a 5-time winner of Baeksang Art Award (best actor) in Korea and won best actor award in several Korean and Asia-Pacific film festivals. He was selected the top Korean actor in recent popular polls and the best actor of the year in 1997 by the premier Korean movie weekly Cine21. His long-running series of TV commercial for a Korean instant coffee company enforced his image as an ideal husband and dad.
- Born Kwak Tae Gun on February 27, 1977 he landed his debuting role in 1999 SBS Television Drama KAIST. It was through the suggestion of is then-manager that he took on the the stage name Chae Ji-sung and subsequently known as simply Ji Sung. His participating in following TV dramas such as All In(2003) and Save the Last Dance for Me(2004) as well as is first film Whistling Princess(2002) further launched his acting career. Ji Sung enlisted into mandatory military service in June 2005 as a soldier and later transferred and served as a public ambassador of military affairs until his discharge June of 2007. Following his discharge that same year he made is comeback in TV Drama New Heart(2007) as once again began to capture the attention of his audiences and continued to do so in later television dramas. He then signed with new management agency, Namoo Actors in February of 2010. From there, Ji Sung continued to add to his extensive resumé playing parts in TV Dramas such as The Great Seer(2012) and in adult rom-com film Whatcha Wearin'?(2012). He then stole the hearts of audiences again in 2013 KBS melodrama Secret. In the same year, Ji Sung announced and tied the knot with South Korean actress and Save the Last Dance for Me co-star Lee Bo-young. On November 24, 2014 Namoo Actors Agency revealed Ji Sung and Lee Bo-young to be expecting their first child mid-June to early July of 2015. He then continued the capture audiences reuniting with Secret co-star Hwang Jung-eum in 2015 MBC Television Drama Kill Me, Heal Me for which Ji Sung received much praise for his outstanding acting skills.
- Kang Seok-woo was born on 1 October 1957 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Neoui ileumi yeoja (1969), Ibangin (1985) and Yeonaeneun pro, gyeolhoneun amateur (1994).
- Kim Byeong-ki was born on 2 November 1948 in the Republic of Korea. He is an actor, known for Dark Hole (2021), The Veil (2021) and The Man Who Can't Get Married (2009).
- Actor
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- Director
Jung-woo Ha is a South Korean actor, film director, screenwriter and film producer. His breakthrough to stardom came with the role in Na Hong-jin's serial killer film The Chaser (2008).
Born as Kim Sung-hoon, Ha Jung-woo came from an acting family. His father Kim Yong-gun is a well-known veteran actor who has appeared in many movies and television series. Ha has said that since he was 4 or 5 years old, he has always dreamed of becoming an actor like his father. Before entering college, Ha studied at a private acting institute and at one point had actor Lee Beom-soo as his instructor. He then enrolled at Chung-Ang University as a theater major, where he acted on the stage.
In 1998, Ha began his military service, working in the Armed Forces Public Relations Department. He put his acting experience to good use during this time, appearing in 10 promotional films for the military.
Kim Sung-hoon made his acting debut in the 2002 SBS sitcom Honest Living and his feature film debut in the 2003 film Madeleine.
He made his directorial debut through the comedy film Fasten Your Seatbelt (2013).
In 2016, Ha starred again in two box office hits; Park Chan-wook's The Handmaiden, an adaptation of the Sarah Waters novel Fingersmith also set during 1930s Korea; and the survival thriller The Tunnel.- Young Jae Dok-Go was born on 13 December 1953. He is an actor, known for The Great Queen Seondeok (2009), Majimak shido (1998) and Gwicheondo (1996).
- Han Suk Kyu is an award-winning veteran South Korean actor. Born on November 3, 1964, he made his acting debut in the 1990 television drama "Our Paradise" and then rose to fame in 1994 drama "The Moon of Seoul, enjoying tremendous popularity in both films and television dramas during the 1990s. Some of his recent works include "A Tree With Deep Roots" (2011), "Secret Door" (2014) and "Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim" (2016). Han Suk Kyu is married to Im Myung Joo.
- Won Bin, born November 10, 1977 in Jeongseon County, Gangwon Province, South Korea, is a popular actor. He is the youngest of five siblings (two older brothers and two older sisters). While growing up in Jeongseon County, Won Bin initially planned to become a car mechanic, but in 1996 entered an audition for cable TV company Je-il Broadcasting and won. In 1996, Won Bin made his television debut on the KBS Super Sunday variety show "Our Story". Won Bin's acting career then began in earnest with the KBS drama series "Propose" - Won Bin played a character on the short end of a one-sided love affair. His popularity quickly increased while appearing in several more youth orientated dramas - MBC's "Ready, Go!" and KBS's "Kwangki". His appearance in the 2000 KBS weekend drama "Tough Guy's Love" further gained more fans for Won Bin. He then shot to stardom with his popular role as Tae-seok in KBS's "Autumn in my Heart" - with his famous line "Eolmamyeon Doae?" (How Much?) becoming a much imitated slogan by his fans. Won Bin then made his move acting debut in the 2001 film "Guns and Talks" (Killerdeului suda). Three years later Won Bin would star in the action / war blockbuster "Taegukgi," which still ranks as one of the all time highest grossing films in South Korea. Won Bin then placed his acting career on hold while serving his two year mandatory military requirement, beginning in November, 2005. Won Bin was discharge early on June, 2006 due to an ACL injury to his knee. Won Bin would go through a year of rehab. His acting career then resumed in Joon-ho Bong's highly anticipated 2009 film "Mother". Won Bin played Do-jun, a young man with limited mental capacity who becomes accused of a murder. The film would screen at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival before opening #1 at the South Korean box office on May 28th, 2009.
- Hyun Bin, born in 1982, had a typical childhood as the youngest son of a family with loving parents and a strong older brother. In high school, he fell in love with the allure of acting in a theater club he joined on the advice of a senior, but he was opposed by his father, who wanted him to pursue a normal life. His father, unable to oppose his son's desire, set a condition that he would root for him if he was admitted by the Theater and Film Department of 'Chung-Ang University,' which was coveted by aspiring actors at the time. Hyun Bin was firmly accepted and demonstrated his enthusiasm.
After debuting in a minor role in the 2003 drama 'Bodyguard,' Hyun Bin began his acting career earnestly. The same year, he played an attractive college student in the sitcom 'Nonstop 4,' which dealt with campus life and began gaining popularity. He shot to fame in 2004 after delivering an outstanding performance in the drama 'Island.' His subtle emotional portrayal of the role was sufficient to announce the advent of a new star.
He reached the pinnacle of his career for the first time in 2005 with 'My Name is Kim Sam-soon,' a smash drama that achieved a record audience rating of 50%. He did not settle for being a romance star but continued experimenting with different genres and characters. He continued to feature in dramas such as 'The Snow Queen(2006)' 'Friends: Our Legend(2009),' and 'The World that They Live In(2008),' as well as films such as 'I Am Happy(2008),' 'Late Autumn(2010),' 'Come Rain, Come Shine(2011),' and so on, widening his acting range and cementing his place as a character actor.
Hyun Bin reached the peak of his career for the second time in 2011 when he won the grand prize at the renowned Baeksang Arts Awards for the hit drama 'Secret Garden,' which caused Asia to succumb to the 'Hyun Bin Syndrome.' However, when at the top, he volunteered to join the Marine Corps to complete his national military duty responsibilities. This enthralled the fans even more, as he resumed his life sublimely and silently rather than clinging to the 'climax' moment that had come to him.
After being discharged from the military, he pursued more public-friendly works and chose paths that other actors did not. From 'The Fatal Encounter(2014),' about the young days of King Jeongjo, who is regarded as the last sage in Joseon history, to the 'Confidential Assignment(2017)' series, about inter-Korean cooperation, and 'Rampant(2018),' about a zombie dystopia in the Joseon Dynasty, he captivated the audience with a variety of entertaining films. As a result, Hyun Bin cemented his reputation as an actor who values both popularity and excellence, not only in TV shows but also on the big screen.
He reclaimed the top spot in 2020. He had a worldwide smash hit with the drama 'Crash Landing on You,' which became a hot issue as he reunited with actress Son Ye-jin, with whom he previously collaborated on the film 'The Negotiation(2018).' Hyun Bin portrayed Ri Jeong-hyeok, a North Korean soldier who falls in love with a female protagonist who crash-lands in North Korea. The drama has been dubbed the 'Hyun Bin Genre,' since he demonstrated a diverse range of acting in romance, melodrama, and action, demonstrating his potential as a global star.
Following COVID-19, he demonstrated his unequaled influence by rejuvenating the moribund Korean film business by participating in a string of blockbusters, including 'Confidential Assignment 2: International' and 'The Point Men.' He recently announced plans to meet the public with the hit film 'Harbin,' based on the life of Korean independence activist Ahn Jung-geun. - Actor
- Soundtrack
Since he debuted as an actor in 2003, Gang, Dong-Won has played a leading role in 20 works over 18 years. (Accumulated Attendance 67,000,000, which is ranked 1st among Korean actors in their 30s, excluding 2 years of military service period) As much as he enjoys creating new characters in his works, he challenges himself in various roles and genres. With an outstanding physical condition, a height of 6'1", a face that attracts people of all ages, and subtle acting skills, he has become a number one pick for movie directors Due to his great athleticism, he is capable of carrying out any action stunt. He is skilled in all sorts of martial arts, including Taekwondo and Boxing. Horse-riding and sword craft are his specialties.- Actor
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Yoo Ji-tae was born on 13 April 1976 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor and director, known for Oldboy (2003), Ditto (2000) and Mai Ratima (2012).- Actor
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Hwang Jung-Min is one of the highest-grossing movie stars in South Korea, starring in many iconic box office hits such as ODE TO MY FATHER (2014), VETERAN (2015), THE WAILING (2016) to name a few, and is the third actor in Korea to become a member of the "100 million Viewer Club" in Korea, along with Song Kang-ho from PARASITE.
Hwang started his career in musical theatre, making his acting debut in LINE 1 in 1995. In 2001, Hwang landed his first acting role in a feature film after successfully auditioning for the role of Kang-su in WAIKIKI BROTHERS.
Since that time Hwang has frequently displayed his level of depth as an actor by performing in a wide range of roles: a scene-stealing mob boss in NEW WORLD, where his performance was singled out by The New York Times, an ordinary hardworking man in ODE TO MY FATHER ( the second highest-grossing film in Korean cinema history), and an unforgettable performance as a shaman in THE WAILING, a globally acclaimed horror film.- Park Sung-woong was born on 9 January 1973 in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. He is an actor, known for New World (2013), The Killing Vote (2023) and A Desperate Pursuit.
- Born in Seo-choen, a small village, in South Korea in 1970, Seung-Ryong Ryu discovered his love for acting when he saw a play at the age of 15. Then, he went on to study theater at Seoul Institute of the Arts. For over a decade after graduating from the college, he was just an obscure actor mostly performing on the small stage. During this time period, he had a chance to spend 5 years performing 'Nanta', a non-verbal performance, travelling all around the world and patiently built up the skills and perspectives as an actor.
He made his film debut as a minor role at a relatively late age of 34 in 'Someone Special (2004)'. In spite of a very short appearance, his 'driving existence as a supporting actor' instantly caught filmmakers' eye and soon led him to be a prolific supporting actor. Although his college mates already had risen to fame before him, his optimism and endless passion for acting made it possible for him to keep stepping forward calmly. While appearing in several films, he turned his attention to the TV dramas and won critical acclaim for his portrayal as a sensitive gay in the 2010 drama series 'Personal Taste' and demonstrated his wide range to inhabit various characters.
After Prain TPC, an entertainment agency, started to represent him, he is being in the 2nd highlight of his career. His recent 4 films, 'War of the Arrows (2011)', 'All About My Wife (2012)', 'Masquerade (2012), and 'Miracle of Cell No.7 (2013)', have become blockbuster box office hits in South Korea.
One of his strongest points as an actor is he slips into every role he takes perfectly and gets both critical and commercial acclaim. He has transformed himself into diverse characters so far: a hard-nosed Qing dynasty commander speaking Manchu language (War of the Arrows), a royal adviser in Chosun dynasty (Masquerade), an irresistible legendary Casanova (All About My Wife), and a mentally-handicapped father (Miracle of Cell No.7).
As his latest film 'Miracle of Cell No.7' elicited positive response at the Cannes Film Market during the 66th Cannes Film Festival, the leading actor, Seung-Ryong Ryu, consequently became the center of attention. Now he is planning to start a new chapter of his acting career abroad. - Actor
- Soundtrack
Cho Seung-woo was born on 12 February 1980 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Tazza: The High Rollers (2006), Chunhyang (2000) and Marathon (2005).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Jo Jung-Suk was born on 26 December 1980. He is an actor, known for Architecture 101 (2012), Hospital Playlist (2020) and The King 2 Hearts (2012). He has been married to Gummy since 8 October 2018.- Sung Dong-il was born on 27 April 1967 in Incheon, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Take Off (2009), Jang Ok-jung, Living by Love (2013) and The Slave Hunters (2010). He has been married to Kyung-hye Park since 2003. They have three children.
- Shin Ha-kyun was born on 30 May 1974 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor and manager, known for Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002), Joint Security Area (2000) and Save the Green Planet! (2003).
- Kim Seung-su is known for First Love Again (2016), Three Bold Siblings (2022) and Good Job, Good Job (2009).
- Actor
- Director
Cho Jin-woong was born on 3 March 1976 in Busan, South Korea. He is an actor and director, known for The Handmaiden (2016), A Hard Day (2014) and Believer (2018).- Ryoo Seung-bum made a name for himself as an actor after debuting in the film DIE BAD (2000). The critically-acclaimed cult classic hit became a gritty debut that earned Ryoo the Best New Actor award at the 38th Grand Bell Awards. Known for his manic energy, casual demeanor and subtle ability to command a scene, over the years Ryoo Seung-bum has cemented his status as one of Korea's top actors of his generation.
Though he had been steadily impressing critics and audiences alike since his debut, it was CRYING FIST in 2005 that would change his career. He gained critical acclaim and many acting awards throughout his prolific acting career, including notable films like THE UNJUST (2010) and THE BERLIN FILE (2013). - Han Jin-hee was born on 14 March 1949 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for My Sassy Girl (2001), Missing You (2012) and Remember: War of the Son (2015).
- Actor
- Manager
- Soundtrack
Lee Sun-kyun was born on 2 March 1975 in Seoul, South Korea. He was an actor and manager, known for Parasite (2019), A Hard Day (2014) and Paju (2009). He was married to Jeon Hye-jin. He died on 27 December 2023 in Seoul, South Korea.- Actor
- Soundtrack
Joo Won is a South Korean actor best known for his roles in King of Baking, Kim Takgu (2010), Ojakgyo Family (2011), Bridal Mask (2012), Good Doctor (2013), Fatal Intuition (2015), Yong-pal (2015), My Sassy Girl (2017) and Alice (2020). Moon Jun-won was born in Seoul, South Korea.He studied at Kaywon High School of Arts and continued his education on Theatre and Arts in Sungkyunkwan University. In 2013, Joo Won announced that he would be furthering his studies at Konkuk University.- Kim Sang-kyung was born on 1 June 1972 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Memories of Murder (2003), What's with This Family (2014) and May 18 (2007).
- Jeon Gook-hwan was born on 21 July 1952. He is an actor, known for I Saw the Devil (2010), Ming Mauseu (2022) and The Bow (2005).
- Ahn Nae-sang was born on 25 December 1964 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Mouse (2021), L.U.C.A.: The Beginning (2021) and Maids (2014).
- Jeong In-gi was born on 12 September 1966. He is an actor, known for The Chaser (2008), The Host (2006) and Bimilae (2010).
- Actor
- Producer
After a few roles in Korean TV movies, Yong-jun Bae became a star thanks to the series "Winter Sonata". Following this triumph, Yong-jun Bae could have chosen the easy way out and tapped into the opportunity. Instead he chose to try something different by debuting in cinema. His first part on the big screen was that of a Valmont-like ruthless seducer in Yong Je's 2003 "Untold Scandal", a loose adaptation of "Dangerous Liaisons". He was totally different but as convincing in the sensitively told romance "April Snow", showing once again that there is more to Yong-jun Bae than just a standard heartthrob.- Lee Mun-shik was born on 13 November 1967 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for The Slingshot (2009), Public Enemy (2002) and Mr Butterfly (2003).
- Lee Won-jong was born on 12 December 1966 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Frivolous Wife (2008), Money Heist: Korea - Joint Economic Area (2022) and Warrior Baek Dong Soo (2011).
- Ahn Suk-hwan was born on 1 December 1959. He is an actor, known for Seontaek (2003), The Uncanny Counter (2020) and Bridal Mask (2012).
- Jong-Hyuk Lee is known for Fragile (2013).
- Kong Hyeong-jin was born on 10 April 1972 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War (2004), Joheun saram isseumyeon sogae shikeojwo (2002) and The Legend of Gingko (2000).
- Kwak Do-won is a Korean musical actor who also played roles on the small and big screen. He played many notable roles in various production such as: "The Yellow Sea", "Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time", "The Attorney", "The Wailing", and many more. Since his appearance in "Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time", Kwak Do-won got a lot more recognition from critics and the public
- Lee Soon-jae was born on 10 October 1934 in the Republic of Korea. He is an actor, known for Late Blossom (2011), High Kick! (2006) and Ugly Alert (2013).
- Jeong Seong-mo is known for Baker King, Kim Tak Goo (2010), Kiss Me, Kill Me (2009) and The Great Queen Seondeok (2009).
- Uhm Tae-woong was born on 5 April 1974 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Jeogdoui Namja (2012), The Great Queen Seondeok (2009) and Kwaegeol Chun-hyang (2005).
- Shin Goo was born on 13 August 1936 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Christmas in August (1998), A Bold Family (2005) and 2009: Lost Memories (2002).
- Ahn Kil-kang is known for Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War (2004), The City of Violence (2006) and 2009: Lost Memories (2002).
- Actor
- Director
- Producer
Apart from being a top star in film and TV, Jung-Jae Lee also works as a highly successful fashion model. One year after his debut on television in 1993, Lee was cast in his first film, a feature by Bae Chang-ho. His breakthrough came in late 1998 in the award-winning film An Affair by E-J Yong. This was followed up by another success, City of the Rising Sun, for which he received a Best Actor award at the domestic Chungryong Awards ceremony.
After starring in the Korean-Japanese coproduction Asako in Ruby Shoes, released in December 2000, Lee found considerable popular success in a melodrama titled Last Present, where he was cast opposite Lee Young-ae, and in the action/mystery/drama The Last Witness directed by Bae Chang-ho. He is also scheduled to appear in an international coproduction to be shot in Korea and directed by Chinese filmmaker Chen Kaige.- Kim Kap-su was born on 7 April 1957 in Korea. He is an actor, known for A Tale of Two Sisters (2003), The Slave Hunters (2010) and The Taebaek Mountains (1994).
- Actor
- Animation Department
Kim Myung-min was born on 8 October 1972 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Six Flying Dragons (2015), Closer to Heaven (2009) and Betoben baireoseu (2008).- Park Hae-il was born on 26 January 1977 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Memories of Murder (2003), Decision to Leave (2022) and The Host (2006).
- Actor
- Writer
- Director
Jung Jin Young is a South Korean actor, born in the year 1964. He was born and raised in Seoul, and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Korean Language and Literature from Seoul National University, one of South Korea's most prestigious institutions.
Building an interest in the arts, Jung Jin Young began acting through college theatre during his time at Seoul National University.
The 1980s was a time of military dictatorship of Korea, and the tension between the government and resistance forces were at its peak. Under such political background, Jung Jin Young participated in an ideologically oriented left-wing play during his twenties, and also debuted in the film industry through a film titled "Opening the Closed School Door," which was banned from major screening by the government due to its story-line focusing on the foundation of the Korean Teachers & Educational Worker's Union.
The actor successfully settled into the film industry through his performance in the 1998 hit film, "A Promise." Leaving a strong impression behind for audiences, Jung Jin Young eventually won the award for Best Male Supporting Actor in both the 19th Blue Dragon Awards and the 36th Daejong Film Festival.
Jung Jin Young's breakthrough role came in the 2005 award winning film, "The King and the Clown." The actor appeared as the deranged king, Yeonsan-gun- of Korea's Joseon Dynasty, successfully providing audiences with a new perspective on the historical figure. The film was a major success, reaching an audience number of 10 million.
The actor continued his success through the television industry also, starring in many dramas, such as "Country of Winds," "Brain," "The Glamorous Temptation," etc. Through his notable performances, the actor was presented with many nominations and awards.
In addition to acting, Jung Jin Young also participated as a TV show host; most widely known for hosting the educational/cultural program, "Unsolved Mysteries," for 4 years, since the year 2002. He also participated as a host for the program, "Challenger," in 2011, and the final stage of popular variety show, "I am a Singer 2," in 2012.
Of his many performances on screen, "A Promise (1998)," "Let's Play Dharma (2001)," "Wildcard (2003)," "The King and the Clown (2005)," "Bunt (2007)," "Battlefield Heroes (2010)," "Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2012)," "Ode to My Father (2014)," etc., are his most notable appearances. For television, the actor earned many awards for his performances in "Country of Winds (2008)," "Brain (2011)," and "The Glamorous Temptation (2015)."- Oh Dal-su was born on 15 June 1968 in Taegu, North Gyeongsang Province, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Oldboy (2003), The Good the Bad the Weird (2008) and Assassination (2015).
- Yoo Hae-jin was born on 4 January 1970 in Cheongju, Korea. He is an actor, known for A Taxi Driver (2017), The Pirates (2014) and Veteran (2015).
- Jo Sung-ha was born on 8 August 1966. He is an actor, known for The Yellow Sea (2010), The Suspect (2013) and Helpless (2012).
- Song Sae-byeok was born on 26 December 1979 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for The Servant (2010), Mother (2009) and Night of 7 Years (2018).
- Jang Yoo-sang was born on 21 September 1991 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for SF8 (2020), Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency (2019) and Save Me (2017).
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Kim Yoon-seok was born on 21 January 1968 in Danyang County, North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. He is an actor and director, known for The Chaser (2008), Another Child (2019) and 1987: When the Day Comes (2017). He has been married to Joo-ran Bang since 2002. They have two children.- Baek Yun-shik was born on 16 March 1947 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Save the Green Planet! (2003), The Big Swindle (2004) and Inside Men (2015).
- Jeong Eun-pyo was born on 27 March 1966 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Kilimanjaro (2000), Mouse (2021) and Natural City (2003).
- South Korean actor Jang Dong-Gun starred in two record-breaking box office hits; one of which was 'Friend,' the highest grossing Korean film at the time. He gained widespread critical acclaim for his portrayal of a troubled high school student who chooses the life of organized crime, paving the way for him to star in the 2004 hit Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War (2004), about the Korean War, which again shattered box office records. Having achieved star status throughout Asia, Jang took on two more high-profile roles. Golden Globe nominated film 'The Promise' was a $30 million pan-Asian production by the Cannes Film Festival winning director Chen Kaige, in which Jang plays the leading role opposite Hiroyuki Sanada and Cecilia Cheung. 'Typhoon' by director Kwak Kyung-Taek (Friend), had Jang star as a modern-day pirate who has been betrayed by both North and South Korea and set another new standard for such a distinct kind of character.
Born and raised in Seoul, Korea, he made his debut in the MBC drama series 'Our Heaven' (1993). By the late 1990s, he had gained huge popularity in Korea, and he also became one of the very first Korean stars to garner a huge fan following in other parts of Asia. After acting in the critically acclaimed 'Nowhere to Hide' helmed by the internationally renowned director Lee Myung-Se in 1999, Jang went on to star in 'The Anarchists'(2000). In 2002, he also starred in the popular action blockbuster '2009 Lost Memories,' set in a futuristic Japan, and then took on a new challenge by appearing in the low-budget film 'The Coast Guard' (2002) by the controversial director Kim Ki-Duk. - Actor
- Director
- Writer
Cho Jae-hyun was born on 30 June 1965 in Seoul, Korea. He is an actor and director, known for Jeong Do-jeon (2014), Punch (2014) and Bad Guy (2001).- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Cha In-pyo was born on 14 October 1967 in Korea. He is an actor and director, known for Sense8 (2015), Flu (2013) and Good Fellas: Ongals and the Stranger (2019).- Bool-am Choi was born on 15 June 1940 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for The Last Witness (1980), Naeileul hyanghae dalryeora (1979) and Naeilitneun woojeong (1970).
- Song Jae-ho was born on 10 March 1937 in Pyeongyang, Korea. He was an actor, known for Memories of Murder (2003), Tidal Wave (2009) and Sarangeul bilryeo deuribnida (1976). He died on 7 November 2020 in Seoul, South Korea.
- Actor
- Location Management
Lee Jung-Jin was born on 25 May 1978 in Seoul, Korea. He is an actor, known for Pieta (2012), Hae-jeok, discowang doeda (2002) and Hundred Year Inheritance (2013).- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Park Joong-hoon was born on 21 March 1964 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor and director, known for Nowhere to Hide (1999), My Love, My Bride (1990) and Two Cops (1993).- Won Namkung was born on 1 August 1934 in South Korea. He was an actor, known for The Hut (1981), Mojeongui bimil (1968) and Doknabi (1971). He died on 5 February 2024 in Seoul, South Korea.
- Born in occupied Korea, Kang Shin-yeong attended Geonguk University, majoring in Korean Literature. He made his film debut in director Shin Sang-ok's Romance Papa in 1960 and has appeared in more than 500 movies since then. In his debut film, director Shin suggested the name Kang Shin-sung-il but that was subsequently shortened to simply Shin Sung-il which he used for his entire professional career. He has won several awards for best actor or best supporting actor for films such as Gajeong gyosa (1963) and Dalbit sanyang gun (1986). In 1979, he became the chairman of the Korean Actors League and held the position for several consecutive terms. After a long career as an actor and having directed and even produced, Shin Sung-il has retired from the film industry in favor of pursuing a career in politics. He was elected to the National Assembly where he remains to this day.
- Park Hae-jin was born on 1 May 1983. He is an actor, known for Bad Guys (2014), Doctor Stranger (2014) and My Love from Another Star (2013).
- Chun Ho-jin was born on 9 September 1960 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for I Saw the Devil (2010), Six Flying Dragons (2015) and A Dirty Carnival (2006).
- Shin-yang Park was born on 1 November 1968 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor, known for A Promise (1998), Yuri (1996) and The Big Swindle (2004).
- Actor
- Composer
- Soundtrack
Jung Il-woo was born on 9 September 1987 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor and composer, known for Diary of a Night Watchman (2014), Haechi (2019) and High Kick! (2006).- Lee Jae-ryong was born on 24 September 1964 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Secret Reunion (2010), Adeulgwa yeonin (1992) and King's Daughter, Soo Baek Hyang (2013).
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
- Jae Hee was born on 25 May 1980 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for 3-Iron (2004), Kwaegeol Chun-hyang (2005) and Save the Family (2015).
- Shin Sung Rok is a South Korean actor. He frequently appears in films and television series, but is better known and active in musical theatre. His most popular drama yet was the romantic comedy My Love from the Star (2013), in which he appeared as a villainous businessman. In June 2016, Shin married a non-celebrity office worker in Hawaii. In November the same year, Shin became a father to a baby girl.
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
- Min Nam-koong was born on 12 March 1978 in Seoul, Korea. He is an actor, known for My Dearest (2023), Good Manager (2017) and Remember: War of the Son (2015).
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Lee Dong-geon was born on 26 July 1980 in Seoul, South Korea. He is an actor, known for Paris ei yeonin (2004), Seven Day Queen (2017) and My Boyfriend Is Type-B (2005). He was previously married to Jo Yun-hie.- Kim Seung-woo was born on 24 February 1969 in Seoul, Korea. He is an actor, known for Ailiseu (2009), Ghost Mama (1996) and Late Night Restaurant (2015). He has been married to Kim Nam-ju since 25 May 2005. They have two children. He was previously married to Lee Mi-yeon.
- Song Chang-ui was born on 24 January 1979. He is an actor, known for Once Upon a Time in Seoul (2008), The Great Seer (2012) and Make a Woman Cry (2015).
- Jae-won Kim was born on February 13, 1981 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Ro-mang-seu (2002), Nae ma-eum-i deul-li-da (2011), Hwajeong (2015) and Nae-sa-rang ssa-ga-ji (2004).
He rose to stardom in korea when he played a high school senior who falls for his teacher (played by Kim Ha-neul) in hit drama Ro-mang-seu (2002). - Jo Sung-ha was born on 8 August 1966. He is an actor, known for The Yellow Sea (2010), The Suspect (2013) and Helpless (2012).
- Yeon Jeong-hun was born on 6 November 1978 in South Korea. He is an actor, known for Skiptrace (2016), Mask (2015) and My Wife Is a Gangster (2001). He has been married to Han Ga-in since 26 April 2005. They have one child.