Ten Korean Actors Taking the World by Storm: A Vanity Fair France Spotlight

Korean cinema and television are enjoying a global boom, captivating audiences worldwide with compelling narratives, stunning visuals, and captivating performances. This surge in popularity has propelled Korean actors onto the international stage, with many becoming household names. Vanity Fair France recently highlighted ten Korean actors leading this cultural wave.

 

1. Cha Eun-woo:

 

- One of the most popular Korean celebrities, often cited as Korea's most handsome man.

- Member of the K-pop group Astro, known for his acting in the K-drama "My ID Is Gangnam Beauty" (2018).

- Rose to prominence with the success of "True Beauty" (2020), addressing bullying, depression, and beauty standards in South Korea.

- Continues to act, with his latest work being "Wonderful World," and recently released his first solo album, "ENTITY."

- Brand ambassador for Dior, Burberry, and Chaumet, with over 45.6 million followers on Instagram.

 

2. Kim Soo-hyun:

 

- Winner of prestigious awards in South Korea, currently the most sought-after and highest-paid actor in the country.

- Active since 2007, rose to fame in 2011 with "Dream High."

- Returned in 2020 with a strong performance in "It's Okay to Not Be Okay," set in a psychiatric hospital.

- His latest series, "The Queen of Tears," follows a married couple overcoming illness.

- Achieved unprecedented success, with a national audience of over 24% for the final episode and topping Netflix's most popular series in 40 countries.

- With 20 million followers, he has solidified his international star status.

 

3. Byeon Woo-seok:

 

- A rising star in South Korea, previously a model, he began acting in 2016 with supporting roles.

- Secured his first major role in "Record of Youth" (2020) alongside Park Bo-gum.

- Gained widespread popularity in the summer of 2023 with his portrayal of the "villain" in "Strong Girl Nam-soon."

- His performance was so convincing that numerous comments on the internet expressed disappointment at his character's fate.

- Shortly after, he starred in the romantic series "Lovely Runner," a tragic yet captivating story.

- The K-drama topped the most-watched programs in 133 countries, including the US, Canada, and France, within its first week.

- Model for Calvin Klein, associated with Prada and Loewe, with 10.4 million Instagram followers.

 

4. Song Kang:

 

- One of the most popular figures in South Korea, especially among young people.

- Started his career in 2017, achieving his first success in 2019 with "Love Alarm," despite negative reviews.

- His 2021 K-drama "Nevertheless" became a romantic classic, challenging Korean entertainment norms with daring sex scenes and flawed characters.

- Simultaneously starred in the apocalyptic horror series "Sweet Home," which became the fourth most-watched series in France upon release.

- Currently serving in the military since April 2024, with 22 million Instagram followers eagerly awaiting his return in the third and final season of "Sweet Home" in late July.

 

5. Park Seo-joon:

 

- At 35, one of the most popular Korean actors both domestically and internationally.

- Began his career in 2011, achieving recognition in 2015 with "Kill Me, Heal Me" and "She was pretty."

- Since then, he has starred in cult K-dramas like "Fight for My Way," "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim," and "Itaewon Class."

- Also a film actor, appearing in the Oscar-winning "Parasite" and the American blockbuster "The Marvels" (2023).

- His latest screen appearance was in the Netflix series "The Creature of Kyŏngsŏng," released in December 2023.

- With 25.9 million Instagram followers, he is known for his association with Chanel and his close friendships, especially within the "Wooga Squad."

 

6. Lee Jae-wook:

 

- At 26, one of the most promising actors of the new generation.

- Began his career in 2018 with "Memories of the Alhambra," quickly gaining prominence with a significant role in "Extraordinary You" the following year.

- Secured the lead role in "Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol" and achieved recognition in 2022 with the fantasy action series "Alchemy of Souls."

- Considered one of the best K-dramas in recent years, "Alchemy of Souls" helped Lee Jae-wook establish himself in the entertainment world.

- Recently starred in "The Impossible Heir," and is closely linked to the luxury industry, attending Prada fashion shows, modeling for the brand, and participating in events and campaigns for Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Fendi, and Ferragamo.

- Has 7.1 million Instagram followers and recently experienced a public breakup with Karina of the K-pop group Aespa due to toxic fan harassment.

 

7. Ji Chang-wook:

 

- At 37, one of the most beloved Korean actors known for his diverse acting talents.

- His career took off in 2010 with "Smile Again," but he gained true popularity in 2013 for his role in the historical series "Empress Ki."

- He has since achieved numerous successes, tackling romantic genres with "Suspicious Partner" and action with "The K2" and "Healer."

- 2023 was a positive year with the romantic comedy "Welcome to Samdal-ri" and the thriller "The Worst of Evil," alongside fellow Korean star Wi Ha-Joon.

- He is starring in the film "Revolver," set to release in South Korea in August 2024, playing the villain, and is expected to appear in the K-dramas "The Queen Woo" and "Gangnam B-Side."

- His popularity continues to grow, with 27.1 million Instagram followers.

 

8. Park Hyung-sik:

 

- Originally a singer, member of the boy band ZE:A since 2010, he sought to explore other areas of entertainment.

- Secured his first significant role in 2013 with "The Heirs" alongside Lee Min-ho, increasing his visibility.

- Achieved true stardom in 2016 with the series "Hwarang," which led him to meet Park Seo-joon and become part of the "Wooga Squad," and "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon."

- "Strong Woman Do Bong-soon" is a classic for K-drama fans, blending romance, police investigation, and the supernatural.

- With 12.9 million Instagram followers, he starred in the Netflix production "Doctor Slump" earlier in 2024, which was a success.

 

9. Rowoon:

 

- Like many actors, Rowoon is originally a singer, a member of the K-pop group SF9 since 2016.

- Made his screen debut the following year in "School 2017," with a minor role that launched his career.

- His visibility significantly increased in 2019 with the K-drama "Extraordinary You," based on the webtoon of the same name.

- He then starred in "The King's Affection," "She would never know," and "Tomorrow," ranging from romance to drama.

- In 2023, Rowoon left his music group.

- Months later, he appeared in "Destined with you" alongside renowned actress Jo Bo-ah.

- The K-drama, blending love, curses, and shamanism, has garnered over 2.9 million views on Netflix within seven days of its premiere.

- Often praised for his physique, the 6'3" actor has modeled for brands like Tiffany & Co., Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Loewe, and Calvin Klein, as seen on his Instagram with 6.9 million followers.

 

10. Song Joong-ki:

 

- A leading Korean actor, starring in two of the most-watched and beloved K-dramas: "Descendants of the Sun" (2016) and "Vincenzo" (2021).

- At 38, he began his career in 2008.

- Won numerous awards but has also been involved in major scandals, including his divorce from his "Descendants of the Sun" co-star, Song Hye-kyo.

- Currently married and expecting his second child with Katy Saunders, a British actress and model.

- Known for darker, action-oriented productions, he recently starred in the films "Hopeless" and "My Name is Loh Kiwan."

- While awaiting a new project, you can follow his activities on his Instagram, alongside 12 million other followers.

These ten actors represent the diversity and talent of Korean entertainment. Their performances have captivated audiences worldwide and contributed to the global popularity of Korean cinema and television. As their careers continue to flourish, they are sure to continue to enchant and inspire audiences for years to come.