No K-Drama is complete without a swoon-worthy lead actor that steals every scene they are in whether they meant to or not. While Korean dramas are filled with unbelievable talent and exceptional charms, there are a handful of actors how have been forever etched into the hearts and minds of K-Drama lovers across the globe.
Here are six actors who stole our hearts, although let’s be honest this list could have had been way longer.
Song Joong Ki
Well known for his swoon-worthy performance Captain Yoo Shi-jin in the 2016 K-drama “Descendants of the Sun,” Song Joong Ki is no stranger at stealing fans’ hearts. His characters are an effortless blend of dry humor, charisma, and witty banter that inevitably leads to both bromance and romance. You may also recognize him from his previous roles including “Arthdal Chronicles,” “The Innocent Man,” and the 2021 suspense drama, “Vincenzo.”
Seo Kang Joon
This hallyu actor with boyish good looks and mesmerising eyes, first captured fans’ attention for his portrayal of bad boy Baek In Ho, in the 2016 webtoon adapted K-Drama “Cheese in the Trap.” However, unklike his character, Seo Kang Joon is the epitome of humble in real life – never missing an opportunity to show gratitude to his fans. His previous works include the popular K-Dramas “Are You Human Too?,” “Watcher,” and “Where the Weather is Fine.”
Ji Chang Wook
From action thrillers and romcoms to historical dramas and everything in between, Ji Chang Wook has been intoxicating his versatility and range since his debut in 2006. His most popular works include “Smile Again,” “Healer,” “The K2,” “Suspicious Partner,” and most recently “Lovestruck in the City.” But that’s not all. He has also appeared in many music videos and contributed songs to the soundtracks of many of his dramas.
Lee Joon Gi
Dubbed the “King of Sageuk,” Lee Joon Gi has taken on more historial dramas than any other actor, starting in 2005 when he starred in the film “The King and the Clown.” This former “flower boy” has since tried to shed this iconic title by taking on less than glamorous roles. His most recent work includes the highly successful K-Dramas “Moon Lovers”, “Lawless Lawyer,” and more recently “Flower of Evil.”
Lee Je Hoon
Earlier this year, Lee Je Hoon made waves with his effortless portrayal of former Special Forces officer turned mercenary for hire Kim Do Gi, in the hit K-Drama “Taxi Driver.” He is a rare actor not only dedicated to giving each and every role his all (he does his own stunts!), but also chooses projects that convey meaningful messages. You may recognize this passionate and down to earth actor from his previous roles in “Move to Heaven,” “Signal,” and “Where the Stars Land.”
Song Kang
The ‘crowned’ son of Netflix and the youngest person on the list, Song Kang, previously starred in K-Dramas including “When the Devil Calls Your Name” and “Love Alarm.” However, after taking on the role of Cha Hyun-soo in the webtoon adapt series, “Sweet Home,” he immediately started gaining traction among fans. His most recent roles include Lee Chae-rok, a struggling ballerino in “Navillera” and Park Jae-eon, a womanizing college student in “Nevertheless.”
BONUS
Up and coming actors we can’t take our eyes off include Hwang In Yeop, Lee Do-hyun, and Chae Jong Hyeop.
Did I miss any of your favorites? Tell me in the comments below!
I would just add Yeo Jin Goo, who was absolutely mesmerizing in Beyond Evil. So young, but with so much talent and experience. And those eyes!
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I would add Lee Jong-Suk to the list.
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