Let’s face it: Korean actors and actresses are killing the game in the global entertainment scene right now. Whether you’re a full-on K-drama addict, just mindlessly scrolling through Netflix, or quite simply someone who loves compelling performances and good-looking people, it can’t be denied that these stars are in another league. From veterans who paved the way to fresh faces lighting up screens everywhere, here’s a countdown of the 15 most iconic Korean actors and actresses you should know, starting from number 15 all the way to the best.
15. Kim Yoo-jung
Since her childhood, Kim Yoo-jung has fascinated people with her role and soon became recognized as one of the most talented young actresses in Korea. From Love in the Moonlight to My Demon and 20th Century Girl, she consistently delivers performances full of depth and charm. Her natural expressiveness and ability to make audiences root for her in every role have solidified her status as one of the industry’s brightest stars.
14. Lee Joo-bin
Lee Joo-bin merely embodies versatility. From the notable starring roles in She Would Never Know, Money Heist: Korea, and Queen of Tears, she has affirmed that any character would be well represented by her skill and nuance. Her ability to transform into different roles seamlessly makes her stand out among Korea’s current crop of actors.
13. Go Yoon-jung
Go Yoon-jung has risen rapidly as one of the most gifted young talents in K-drama, thanks to memorable performances in Sweet Home, Alchemy of Souls, and Moving. She holds a rare gift for exposing complex emotions with graceful gestures and expressions, and because of this, her performances are always captivating to watch. Her star is only rising, and the future looks incredibly bright.
12. Park Sung-hoon
There’s no denying that Park Sung-hoon is an on-screen chameleon. In roles that are as intense and dramatic, or layered to a real understatement, he puts in such depth and authenticity. Shows like The Moon Embracing the Sun, The Glory, and Queen of Tears shot him into the limelight as one of Korea’s most talented and versatile actors.
11. Ma Dong-seok
Better known to many as “The Beast,” Ma Dong-seok steals any scene that he is in. Whether in the battle with zombies in Train to Busan or going toe to toe against gangsters in The Outlaws, commanding presence and natural charisma make this actor unforgettable. He is one of those actors who instantly raises a project through his own energy and intensity.
10. Kim Hye-yoon
Kim Hye-yoon has managed to weave quirkiness and relatability into her acting that will easily make her a fan favorite. She made SKY Castle, Extraordinary You, and even her web drama Lovely Runner go all the way with complex and engaging characters with a certain charm and authenticity. Kim’s performances leave a lasting impression, showing both range and heart in every role.
9. Hwang In-youp
Hwang In-youp gained the heartthrob title with hits such as Cheer Up!, 18 Again, and True Beauty. The charisma he exudes it’s just a natural screen presence that lets a viewer hardly look away from him. Moreover, he keeps winning hearts with every upcoming project. There’s no doubt he’s one of the most promising young actors in the industry today.
8. Jeon Jong-seo
With great courage and without backing down, Jeon Jong-seo is the one to fiery characters that require the deliverance of the deep and subtle aspects. In the movies Call to Ballerina and Wedding Impossible, she has made it clear that she is a next-generation actor in the films and TV series of Korea. Her captivating acting is a strong indication that she will be a prominent figure in the coming years.
7. IU (Lee Ji-eun)
IU is indeed a national treasure who started as a music superstar and grew into one of Korea’s most respected actresses. Shows such as My Mister, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, and Hotel Del Luna really showed her emotional depth and also how fearless she can be when approaching complex characters. IU’s talent and charisma make her a true force in the Korean entertainment industry.
6. Do Kyungsoo (D.O.)
EXO’s D.O. proved that, on the screen, he could hold his own like he does on stage: from It’s Okay, That’s Love to Bad Prosecutor and 100 Days My Prince, his nuanced acting has garnered critical praise and him a fanbase that sticks with him everywhere. D.O. balances charm and subtlety with an on-screen intensity that makes every role unforgettable.
5. Byun Woo-suk
Byeon Woo-seok is one of the hottest topics in Korea right now. Without any effort, he slides from romantic leads to complex, multi-layered characters, as his list of strong appearances goes on: Strong Girl Nam Soon, 20th Century Girl, and Lovely Runner manifest his full range. His charisma, combined with skill, seals him as a rising star of his generation.
4. Kim Ji-won
Kim Ji-won has become a legend of sorts within the K-drama universe. With leading performances in Fight for My Way, Arthdal Chronicles, Descendants of the Sun, and Queen of Tears, there is an elegance, intensity, and genuineness surrounding this talented actress. Kim has ways of making even the most dramatic storylines seem so natural, in a way, drawing the audience close to her actions.
3. Kim Soo-hyun
Kim Soo-hyun is one of the most iconic male leads in Korean entertainment. From It’s Okay Not to Be Okay to Queen of Tears, he combines charm, emotional depth, and charisma with ease. Consistently ranking among Korea’s top actors, Kim has helped define the Hallyu wave and continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide.
2. Han So-hee
She has risen through the ranks from supporting roles, attesting to her beauty, talent, and magnetic presence that have introduced her into superstardom. Hits like Nevertheless, The World of the Married, and Gyeongseong Creature really show how well she can do complex roles, placing her as one of the most in-demand actresses today in Korea.
1. Song Kang
First in the list is Song Kang, who is also tagged as the “Son of Netflix.” With his iconic and memorable roles in Sweet Home, Love Alarm, Nevertheless, and My Demon, he has captured the hearts of many with his charm, relatability, and continuous good performances. He is one of the highly salient actors in South Korea today, and his popularity doesn’t appear to stop anytime soon.
There you have it, 15 actors and actresses who command the attention of the Korean entertainment world, from seasoned veterans to rising stars. Whether you’re here for the drama, romance, action, or just the charm, these are the names you want to follow in the world of K-dramas and films.