Top 50 Most Popular South Korean Actors In 2026

Song Kang-ho stands as one of South Korea's most esteemed film actors, celebrated for his exceptional talent and magnetic presence on screen.

He first came to prominence with the film The Day a Pig Fell Into the Well and soon gained widespread recognition for a series of compelling performances that showcased his depth and versatility.

Song Kang-ho has left a lasting impression with unforgettable roles in acclaimed movies such as Joint Security Area, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, Memories of Murder, The Host, and A Taxi Driver, consistently drawing praise from audiences and critics alike.

His international reputation grew even further thanks to standout roles in Bong Joon-ho’s films Snowpiercer and Parasite, which introduced him to an even wider global audience and solidified his status as a world-class actor.

In 2021, Song Kang-ho was honored as one of nine judges for the main competition at the 74th Cannes Film Festival, highlighting his influence in world cinema.

He further cemented his legacy by winning the Best Actor award at the 75th Cannes Film Festival in 2022 for his powerful performance in Broker, earning wide acclaim from the international film community.

Lee Byung-hun grew up in a privileged environment, owing to his father's remarkable business achievements. Surprisingly, acting was never a path he envisioned for himself during his early years.

However, his trajectory changed dramatically when a family friend suggested that he give acting a try. This encouragement sparked his interest, ultimately leading him to embrace acting as his true passion and profession.

Today, Lee Byung-hun is celebrated for his extraordinary versatility, captivating audiences in acclaimed films such as Joint Security Area, A Bittersweet Life, I Saw the Devil, The Good, the Bad, the Weird, Masquerade, and Inside Men.

He further gained widespread acclaim starring opposite Kim Tae-ri in the historical drama Mr. Sunshine, a series renowned for its inspirational storytelling and emotional depth, making it a standout in South Korean television.

Uhm Hong-Sik, professionally known as Yoo Ah-in, is a celebrated South Korean actor, gallerist, and creative director whose dynamic presence has enriched the entertainment industry.

Yoo Ah-in is acclaimed for his remarkable versatility, consistently delivering memorable performances across both television and film. His diverse roles have garnered widespread critical praise and a devoted audience following.

He is especially recognized for his powerful acting in movies like Punch and Secret Affair. Yoo's exceptional talent has earned him major awards such as the Asian Film Awards and the Cheval Noir Award from the Fantasia International Film Festival.

Among his many accolades, Yoo Ah-in has won two Blue Dragon Film Awards and two Baeksang Arts Awards, cementing his legendary status and influence in Korean cinema.

Lee Jung-Jae stands out as one of the most successful mainstream actors in South Korea today. Beyond his thriving acting career, he is also a businessman and a former model, showcasing his versatility across multiple fields.

He began his career as a fashion model before making a deliberate transition into acting. This decision soon paid off as he started gaining recognition in the entertainment industry.

Initially appearing in television shows, Lee Jung-Jae quickly expanded his repertoire to include prominent film roles. He has starred in acclaimed movies such as "An Affair," "Il Mare," "Over the Rainbow," and "Last Present."

Choi Min-Sik has established himself as one of South Korea’s most revered actors, gaining international fame through unforgettable roles in acclaimed films such as Oldboy, I Saw the Devil, and The Admiral: Roaring Currents. His intense and nuanced performances have earned him widespread recognition across both South Korea and global audiences.

Expanding his reach beyond Korean cinema, Choi starred alongside Scarlett Johansson in the 2014 Hollywood sci-fi blockbuster Lucy, further solidifying his versatility and worldwide appeal.

His standout portrayal in Oldboy garnered him many accolades, including Best Actor awards at the 40th Baeksang Arts Awards, the 24th Blue Dragon Awards, and the 41st Grand Bell Awards, underscoring his exceptional talent.

After a long hiatus from television dramas, Choi made a notable return in 2022 with a leading role in Disney+'s Big Bet, marking his first TV appearance since 1997’s Love and Separation.

His compelling portrayal of Cha Mu-sik in Big Bet earned him nominations for Best Actor at both the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards and the 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards, further cementing his legacy as a powerhouse performer.

Sol Kyung-gu, after graduating in 1994, began his illustrious career on stage, honing his craft through diverse theatre productions before making a seamless transition to film.

In the mid-1990s, he took on several minor roles in movies, steadily establishing his reputation and presence in the South Korean film industry.

He soon rose to prominence with powerful performances in internationally acclaimed films such as Peppermint Candy, Oasis, Silmido, Hope, The Merciless, and the Public Enemy series.

Throughout his distinguished career, Sol Kyung-gu has garnered numerous prestigious awards, a testament to his exceptional artistry, range, and lasting influence as one of Korea's most respected actors.

Ha Jung-woo is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished actors in South Korean cinema, renowned for his exceptional versatility and consistent box office success.

In addition to his acclaimed acting career, Ha Jung-woo has proven himself as a skilled film director, screenwriter, and producer, further demonstrating his multifaceted contributions to the industry.

With his films amassing over 100 million tickets sold at the box office, Ha’s enduring popularity and talent are clear indicators of his impressive impact on audiences and critics alike.

He has captivated viewers with outstanding performances in acclaimed movies such as "Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time," "The Chaser," "My Dear Enemy," "Take Off," and "The Yellow Sea." His diverse roles have solidified his reputation as a true powerhouse in Korean entertainment.

Lee Min-ho stands out in the South Korean entertainment industry for his exceptional versatility and dynamic presence.

Not only is he celebrated as an accomplished actor, but Lee Min-ho also thrives as a singer, model, creative director, and entrepreneur, showcasing his impressive range of talents.

His rise to fame began with a breakthrough performance in the hit drama Boys Over Flowers, catapulting him to stardom and earning him critical and popular acclaim.

Building on this success, Lee Min-ho captivated audiences with leading roles in popular dramas such as City Hunter, Personal Taste, The Heirs, and The Legend of the Blue Sea, securing his reputation as one of the industry's top talents.

In 2019, he took on the lead in the highly anticipated fantasy romance series The King: Eternal Monarch, which gained international attention through its premiere on SBS and global distribution on Netflix, making it one of the most talked-about shows of 2020.

From 2018 to 2021, the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism named Lee Min-ho the most popular Korean actor among international fans, a testament to his worldwide appeal.

Lee Min-ho's global profile expanded further in 2022 when he made his Hollywood debut with a prominent role in the acclaimed TV adaptation of Pachinko, showcasing his talent on an even broader stage.

Hyun Bin, whose name means "bright light," is a prominent figure in South Korea's entertainment industry, widely celebrated for his exceptional talent and charisma.

He rose to fame after delivering a memorable performance in the 2005 hit romantic comedy drama, My Name is Kim Sam-soon, which quickly made him a household name.

Since then, Hyun Bin has continued to captivate viewers with his leading roles in popular series such as Secret Garden, Memories of the Alhambra, and the global phenomenon Crash Landing on You.

Beyond television, Hyun Bin has proven his versatility by starring in acclaimed films like Confidential Assignment, The Swindlers, The Negotiation, and Rampant, further cementing his status as one of South Korea's most esteemed actors.

Park Hae-il began his acting journey on the theater stage and made his film debut in 2001's "Waikiki Brothers."

He quickly rose to prominence in South Korean cinema, earning acclaim for his compelling performances in critically acclaimed films like "Memories of Murder" and "Jealousy Is My Middle Name."

Following these successes, Park Hae-il transitioned into leading roles, starring in notable movies such as "Moss," "Paradise Murdered," and "Rules of Dating," among others.

Ju Ji-hoon rose to prominence on the television scene with his breakthrough role in Princess Hours, a performance that propelled him into the spotlight of the Korean Wave (Hallyu).

Since then, Ju Ji-hoon has consistently been involved in a string of highly acclaimed projects across television and film.

Some of his most notable works include Kingdom, The Devil, Mask, Dark Figure of Crime, Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds and its sequel, as well as The Spy Gone North.

His feature film debut, Antique, received international attention and was selected for screening at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival.

Lee Joon-gi is a remarkable multi-talented entertainer known for his talents in acting, singing, and dancing. He began his career as a fashion model, showcasing his versatility across different fields of the entertainment industry.

He first gained widespread attention for his compelling performance as a clown in the critically acclaimed film "The King and the Clown," which highlighted his impressive acting abilities.

Lee Joon-gi's popularity rose even further with his memorable role in the romantic comedy television series "My Girl," bringing him greater recognition.

Thanks to his consistent work in popular television dramas, Lee Joon-gi has firmly established himself as a renowned celebrity across Asia.

Ahn Sung-ki is celebrated as a legendary figure in South Korean cinema, earning immense respect for his outstanding contributions to the industry. He began his acting journey at just five years old, debuting in the film Twilight Train and quickly capturing the attention of audiences.

Spanning an extraordinary career of more than sixty years, Ahn Sung-ki has appeared in over 100 films. His remarkable versatility and unwavering dedication have solidified his status as a true icon in Korean film.

Known as "the nation's actor" by the Korean media, Ahn is recognized for his ability to take on diverse roles, leaving a profound impact on the country's film culture. His extensive body of work continues to inspire both audiences and fellow actors alike.

Ahn Sung-ki's influence extends beyond acting, as he has received numerous prestigious awards and served in prominent leadership roles, including Vice President and President of the Korean Film Actors Association, further shaping the future of Korean cinema.

Lee Jong-suk began his film career with the movie Sympathy. As a talented South Korean model and actor, he rose to fame through notable television roles, especially in the popular series School 2013.

He further cemented his status by starring in acclaimed dramas such as Doctor Stranger, I Can Hear Your Voice, W, Pinocchio, While You Were Sleeping, and Romance Is a Bonus Book, among others.

In addition to his extensive television and film work, Lee Jong-suk has also appeared in several music videos, showcasing his versatility and broad appeal in the entertainment industry.

Kim Yoon-Seok is a talented multi-hyphenate in the entertainment industry, known for his work as an actor, film director, and screenwriter. He began his journey on stage, honing his craft in theater productions before transitioning to screen roles.

His early experience in theater paved the way for opportunities in both feature films and television dramas, where he initially took on minor roles. Gradually, his skill and dedication helped him stand out within the industry.

Kim gained wider attention after portraying a compelling antagonist in the gangster drama Tazza: The High Rollers. However, it was his remarkable performance in The Chaser that truly propelled him to greater fame and earned him widespread critical acclaim.

Hwang Jung-min is recognized as one of the most successful actors in South Korean cinema, consistently delivering powerful and memorable performances that have resonated with both critics and audiences.

He has starred in numerous box office blockbusters, including Ode to My Father, Veteran, A Violent Prosecutor, and The Himalayas, demonstrating remarkable versatility across a wide range of roles.

His unforgettable appearance in the acclaimed horror-thriller The Wailing further cemented his reputation, drawing widespread praise for his compelling acting in a gripping narrative.

Hwang Jung-min has also achieved the rare distinction of being the third actor in South Korea to be inducted into Chungmuro's prestigious "100 Million Viewer Club," underscoring his enduring impact on the country's film industry.

So Ji-sub began his entertainment career as a jeans model before transitioning to acting with his television debut on Model. His magnetic charisma and strong screen presence quickly won over viewers, establishing him as a dynamic talent to watch.

He has starred in numerous acclaimed dramas, such as What Happened in Bali, I’m Sorry, I Love You, Cain and Abel, Master’s Sun, Oh My Venus, Phantom, and Something Happened in Bali. These roles highlight his impressive range and ability to portray diverse characters.

So Ji-sub has also excelled in film, earning widespread praise for his performance in Rough Cut. The film’s unexpected box office success further cemented his status as one of South Korea’s most respected and versatile actors.

Park Seo-Joon is a highly acclaimed South Korean actor, beloved for his dynamic roles in hit dramas such as She Was Pretty, Kill Me, Heal Me, Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, Fight for My Way, What's Wrong with Secretary Kim, and Itaewon Class.

His impressive talents have also shone on the silver screen, with standout performances in movies like The Chronicles of Evil, Midnight Runners, and The Divine Fury.

Through these diverse and successful projects, Park Seo-Joon has firmly established himself as a leading star and one of the most popular actors in South Korea today.

Cho Seung-woo is a renowned South Korean actor and singer who began his career with his screen debut in the feature film "Chunhyang" in 2000.

Over the years, he has garnered acclaim for pivotal roles in major films, including "The Classic," "Marathon," "Tazza: The High Rollers," and "Inside Men." His performances have consistently captivated audiences and critics alike.

Cho Seung-woo has also left a lasting impression in television, starring in acclaimed dramas such as "The King's Doctor," "God's Gift: 14 Days," "Life," "Sisyphus: The Myth," and "Stranger." His versatility has established him as a leading figure in both film and television.

Jeong Jae-Yeong stands out as one of South Korea's most acclaimed actors, renowned for his dynamic performances and notable collaborations with director Jin Jang. He began his journey in the film industry with his debut in The Adventures of Mrs. Park, setting the stage for an impressive career.

Jeong's breakthrough came with unforgettable roles in acclaimed films like Silmido, Right Now, Wrong Then, and On the Beach at Night Alone. These performances paved the way for his recognition as a top-tier actor in South Korea.

Over the years, Jeong Jae-Yeong has received numerous prestigious awards, including Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor honors at the Blue Dragon Film Awards. His talent has also been lauded by organizations such as the Director's Cut Awards, Busan Film Critics Awards, 9th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, Korean Association of Film Critics Awards, and the Locarno International Film Festival.

Park Bo-gum made his acting debut in the 2011 feature film Blind. He has been seen playing a range of roles in the movies.

He has been seen making a name for himself in television shows such as Reply 1988, Hello Monster, Encounter, Record of Youth, and Love in the Moonlight, to name a few.

We'd also like to add that he was the youngest artist to be named Gallup Korea's Television Actor of the Year.

Han Suk-kyu is one of the better-known actors in South Korean cinema.

His most prominent character projections have come in films such as No.3, Green Fish, Shiri, Christmas in August, Shiri, The Scarlet Letter, and The President's Last Bang.

For his adroit performance in the historical television drama Deep Rooted Tree, he received the Grand Prize (Daesang) at the SBS Drama Awards in 2011.

He managed to win the same trophy once again in 2016 for his superb performance in the medical drama Dr. Romantic.

Apart from being a known screen face in South Korea, Jung Woo-sung is also the first Korean UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador.

He started his career as a fashion model and gained recognition after having appeared in the feature film Beat.

For his performance in the aforementioned flick, Woo-sung won Best New Actor at the 17th Korean Association of Film Critics Awards.

We would also like to mention that he is quite popular in Japan.

A play that he saw as a grade eight student is what motivated Yoo Hae-jin to take up acting as a career.

Even though his family was of a conservative mindset, the actor tried his very best to realize his dream, and, realize he did in due time.

While he started playing "bit roles" in movies, he soon established himself as a sought-after character actor who was capable of delivering scene-stealing performances.

He has been seen in movies such as Confidential Assignment, A Taxi Driver, and King and the Clown, among others.

Song Joong-ki began his film career with his debut in A Frozen Flower in 2008, quickly capturing attention with his talent and screen presence.

He rose to stardom after his breakout role in the critically acclaimed historical drama Sungkyunkwan Scandal, which showcased his versatility as an actor.

Throughout his career, Song Joong-ki has demonstrated remarkable range by starring in various hit series such as The Innocent Man, Descendants of the Sun, Vincenzo, and Arthdal Chronicles.

On the big screen, he impressed audiences with memorable performances in films like Space Sweepers, A Werewolf Boy, and The Battleship Island.

His roles in Vincenzo and Space Sweepers were particularly well received, solidifying his status as one of South Korea's most popular and respected actors.

Kim Myung-min made his debut in the feature film Sorum.

He's made a name for himself by appearing in popular South Korean television shows such as Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-shin, Beethoven Virus, Six Flying Dragons, Law School, and White Tower.

Also known to be a part of motion pictures such as Closer to Heaven and the Detective K franchise, Kim Myung-min is often referred to as an acting expert courtesy of his commendable acting skills.

Jung Hae-in was first seen in AOA Black's music video for "Moya" in 2013. He made his debut on television the very next year in a show called Bride of the Century.

He has been seen playing a supporting role in shows such as While You Were Sleeping and Prison Playbook; each of which is credited with bringing him fame.

That said, appearing in shows such as Something in the Rain, D.P., and Snowdrop only fetched him greater recognition.

Won Bin was first seen playing a role in the television series Ready Go!. He shot to fame after having played a critical role in the KBS's television series Autumn in My Heart.

He is known to be one of the most selective actors in South Korea today. This is primarily because he has not participated in a lot of films yet.

However, the actor can be seen in titles like Guns & Talks, Taegukgi, My Brother, Mother, and The Man from Nowhere.

Ryu Seung-Ryong made his feature film debut in Someone Special. He started his acting career by working in theater.

Sooner than later, he managed to establish himself as one of the most versatile supporting characters working both in South Korean movies and on television.

He has played a significant role in monstrous box office hits such as Miracle in Cell No. 7 and Extreme Job.

It is said that Ryu Seung-Ryong is the first South Korean actor to feature in four movies that have attracted over 10 million viewers each.

Best known for playing crucial roles in motion pictures such as Friend and Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War, Jang Dong-gun is reportedly among the highest-paid actors and celebrity endorsers in South Korea.

The actor began his acting career by playing roles in television dramas. He is often voted as one of the most bankable stars in the country.

After several of his television dramas started streaming in other Asian countries during the late 1990s, there seemed to be a significant rise in the number of people who admired Jang Dong-gun.

Oh Dal-Su is one of those South Korean actors who has had a rich career on stage. This is primarily because he gave his acting career a kick-start by performing in a theater in Busan.

Since he'd been an experienced performer on stage, there was a rise in Oh Dal-Su's demand.

Soon after, he was seen playing important supporting characters on the big screen.

He has been a part of feature films such as Oldboy, A Bittersweet Life, and Mapado, to name a few.

Aside from acting, Park Hyung-Sik can also dance and sing. That is perhaps why he's been seen marking his presence in music videos and reality programs.

Even though he is not too experienced as a performer so far, he has gone on to prove that he can act in television shows such as The Heirs, High Society, Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth, Strong Girl Bong-soon, Happiness, and Suits.

Lee Dong-Wook, besides being an actor, is also a television host, model, and entertainer.

He has been seen playing critical roles in shows such as Scent of a Woman, My Girl, The Fugitive of Joseon, Hotel King, Life, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, and Touch Your Heart, among others.

In addition to his work on television, he is known for being a host of talk shows such as Strong Heart, Produce X 101, and Wook Talk.

His character play in My Girl is credited with making him popular in several Asian countries.

Cha Eun-woo is an actor and singer who made his feature film debut with My Brilliant Life in 2014.

A member of the South Korean boy group named Astro, this handsome young man is one of the rising screen performers in South Korea.

Also a television host, Cha Eun-woo has been seen in television shows such as Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung, True Beauty, Island, and Law of the Jungle in New Caledonia.

Song Seung-Heon has been a part of several television shows and motion pictures. He first appeared on the television show Three Guys and Three Girls.

He has been a significant part of several television dramas such as East of Eden, Player, Autumn in My Heart, Black, Dinner Mate, and The Great Show.

One of his latest screen appearance was in the fourth season of the show Voice.

Shin Ha-Kyun is a distinguished South Korean actor recognized for his gripping portrayal of Lee Dong Sik in the acclaimed series Beyond Evil.

His impressive filmography features standout performances in Joint Security Area, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, Save the Green Planet!, and Welcome to Dongmakgol.

Ha-Kyun initially honed his craft as a stage actor, appearing in various theatrical productions before gaining wider attention in the film industry.

He rose to stardom after his compelling turn as a North Korean soldier in Joint Security Area, which became a defining moment in his career.

Gong Yoo achieved international stardom with his riveting performance in the blockbuster zombie thriller, Train To Busan. His role in the film earned him widespread recognition and acclaim across the globe.

Before his global breakthrough, Gong Yoo had already captured the hearts of South Korean audiences with his memorable role in the beloved drama Coffee Prince, establishing himself as a household name early in his career.

Gong Yoo's impressive filmography includes impactful works such as Silenced, The Age of Shadows, and the hit fantasy series Guardian: The Lonely and Great God. He continues to be celebrated for his versatility across both television and film.

Cha Seung-won is yet another performer to make it to our list who started his career in the entertainment industry as a fashion model in the 1990s.

Comedy flicks such as Kick the Moon, Jail Breakers, My Teacher, Mr. Kim, and Ghost House are credited with bringing him widespread attention.

That said, he even went on to prove his versatility as an actor in motion pictures such as Blood Rain, My Son, and Night in Paradise.

Ji Chang-Wook is another South Korean screen performer who can sing.

The actor made his screen debut in the feature film Days... and shot to fame after playing the lead role in the drama series Smile Again.

His major television credits include Warrior Healer, Baek Dong-soo, Empress Ki, Suspicious Partner, The K2, Melting Me Softly, Backstreet Rookie, and Lovestruck in the City.

He's known to have begun his career in musical theatre.

Ma Dong-Seok, also widely recognized as Don Lee, stands out as one of South Korea’s most acclaimed actors in modern cinema.

Named Gallup Korea's Film Actor of the Year in 2018, he has delivered memorable performances in critical films including The Outlaws, Derailed, Norigae, One on One, and The Neighbor.

His role in the international sensation Train to Busan earned him worldwide recognition and catapulted his acting career onto the global stage.

Now, Kim Woo-bin may be on our list because of his acting credentials but we would also like to mention the fact that his towering height and smirk are also quite popular among those who like him.

He initially started his career as a runway model and shot to fame after having played a role in shows such as A Gentleman's Dignity, School 2013, and The Heirs.

He has also appeared in successful box office motion pictures such as Friend: The Great Legacy, The Con Artists, and Twenty, to name a few.

Ryoo Seung-bum is a well-known cinematic face in South Korea who has aspired to charm the audience with his presence in motion pictures such as Die Bad, Arahan, Crying Fist, The Unjust, and The Berlin File.

What is noteworthy about the aforementioned feature films is the fact that they have all been directed by Ryoo Seung-bum's older brother, Ryoo Seung-wan.

Ryoo Seung-bum is known to carry his scenes with a calm demeanor and top-notch energy.

One of the most appreciated movie stars in South Korea, Choi Min-soo belongs to a family that has been active in both acting and singing.

The actor took a voluntary leave from acting following an assault case in 2008. However, he has been among such controversies more than once.

Min-soo has been a part of film and television projects such as The Marriage Life, Life and Death of the Hollywood Kid, The Terrorist, Yesterday, White Nights 3.98, Sandglass, and Extracurricular.

Kim Rae-won made his television debut on the show  Me. He soon gained prominence after having been a part of shows such as Cats on the Roof, Gourmet, Love Story in Harvard, and A Thousand Days' Promise.

Motion pictures such as My Little Bride, Sunflower, and The Prison are also credited with bringing him fame.

We would like to inform our viewers that Kim Rae-won originally wanted to become a basketball player. But, a serious injury in the sport propelled his interest in acting.

Kwon Sang-woo commenced his career as a fashion model during the late 1990s.

While he was first seen on television in a show called Delicious Proposal, be started making his presence felt in the movies after being a part of a motion picture like Volcano High.

That said, he shot to fame after performing in films and shows such as My Tutor Friend and Stairway to Heaven.

Yoo Ji-Tae is widely recognized as a versatile and multi-talented force in the South Korean entertainment industry.

His impressive career began as a fashion model and soon expanded to include roles as an accomplished actor, screenwriter, and director.

Debuting in the film "Bye June" in 1998, Yoo Ji-Tae gained widespread attention through unforgettable performances in acclaimed movies such as "Attack the Gas Station" and "Ditto."

Over the years, he has collaborated with some of Korea’s most esteemed filmmakers, starring in iconic films like "Oldboy," "Woman Is the Future of Man," and "One Fine Spring Day."

Chun Ho-jin began his journey with a passion for chemistry, but his love for acting led him to leave university and follow his dreams on the screen.

He made his film debut in the 1986 feature, Street of Desire, marking the start of a successful acting career.

Chun Ho-jin initially gained attention for his performances in various miniseries and telemovies, quickly earning a reputation for his versatility.

He solidified his standing as a respected actor with prominent roles in acclaimed series like Love on a Jujube Tree, Once Again, and My Golden Life.

Yu Oh-Seong is better known for having appeared in motion pictures such as The Spy, Attack the Gas Station, and Friend. He started his acting career at the beginning of the 1990s.

Initially, he was seen playing roles on television and minor roles in the movies.

However, following the success of the gangster drama Beat, he became a rather well-known face to a new generation of cine-goers.

It is said that his career peaked in 2001 after he appeared in the movie Friend.

Kim Sang-Kyung was first seen for the first time in a feature film titled If the Sun Rises in the West.

He is best known for playing a role in motion pictures such as Memories of Murder and May 18.

Two of his feature films that were helmed by filmmaker Hong Sang-soo were screened at the Cannes Film Festival. They were Tale of Cinema and Ha Ha Ha.

Kim Sang-Kyung has also appeared in television shows such as King Sejong the Great and What Happens to My Family?, among others.

Kim Soo-Hyun stands among the highest-paid actors in South Korea today, renowned for his exceptional talent and widespread acclaim. Over his career, he has earned four Baeksang Arts Awards, two Grand Bell Awards, and a Blue Dragon Film Award—cementing his status as a leading figure in the industry.

He began his acting journey in 2008 with his debut in the television show Jungle Fish 1. Kim's star rose quickly through standout roles in iconic dramas like Moon Embracing the Sun, My Love from the Star, and The Producers.

His performance in It's Okay to Not Be Okay, alongside Seo Ye-Ji, propelled him to international fame, with the series receiving critical acclaim and becoming a global sensation.

In early December 2022, Studio Dragon announced Kim Soo-Hyun's casting in the highly anticipated drama tentatively titled Queen of Tears. Scheduled for release in the second half of 2023, Kim will portray Baek Hyun-woo, the legal director for the Queen's group, marking another pivotal role in his illustrious career.