For the past half-century, Korean dramas have been the public's closest companion and source of comfort, sharing the turbulent times with the audience. From the classic performances of the black-and-white TV era to the dazzling achievements of K-content that captivated the world, the core of this history has been the dedication of the actors who embodied the soul of their characters.
This magazine has meticulously examined their acting prowess, public influence, and epochal significance to select the "100 Greatest Male Actors of All Time." This list serves as a record of artists who have left unforgettable narratives on the small screen, and serves as a valuable milestone in retracing the path of Korean drama.
100. Kim Dae-myung (Misaeng, 2014 / Hospital Playlist, 2020)
Source: Kim Dae-myung's Instagram
He possesses an exceptional ability to empathize, disarming viewers with realistic acting that is more realistic than reality itself. In the drama "Misaeng," he perfectly portrayed the sorrows of office workers as the deep-seated Assistant Manager Kim. In "Hospital Playlist," he received rave reviews for his meticulous portrayal of a sensitive and introverted obstetrician/gynecologist. His ability to precisely capture the complex emotions of his characters is a key element in enhancing the drama's immersion. His solid acting skills and sincere demeanor have earned him the trust of all generations, and his signature warm sensibility renews his lifelong character in each project.
99. Kim Nam-gil (Queen Seondeok, 2009 / The Readers of Evil Minds, 2022)
Source: Kim Nam-gil's Instagram. With a unique aura that simultaneously possesses both rough wildness and delicate sensibility, he is a brilliant actor who delves into the depths of each character in each project. He perfectly embodied a maddening innocence through his role as Bidam in "Queen Seondeok," and in "Those Who Read the Mind of Evil," he captured the anguish of Korea's first profiler with profound depth and skill, earning him the honor of the Grand Prize at the Best Acting Awards. His profound expressiveness, which encapsulates a character's pain with a single glance, exerts a magical power that sends powerful thrills through viewers. His solid skills and human charm have made him a top-tier actor trusted by all generations.
98. Ahn Jae-hong (Reply 1988, 2015 / Melo is My Nature, 2019)
Source: Ahn Jae-hong's Instagram. With his unconventional acting and unique rhythm, he possesses a magical charm that makes even ordinary characters seem extraordinary. After showcasing irreplaceable comedic acting as Jeong Bong-i in "Reply 1988," he is praised for presenting a new paradigm for romantic comedy with his sophisticated dialogue that brings out the flavor of the words in "Melo Is My Nature." His acting, which conveys the characters' sincerity with natural, unconventional breathing, is the key driving force behind forming a deep bond with viewers. His clever acting style, which brings fresh shock and laughter to every project, has made him one of the most approachable and capable actors.
97. Kim Sung-kyun (Reply 1994, 2013 / The Fiery Priest, 2019)
From a cool villain to a sympathetic neighbor, he is a versatile actor with a thousand faces, capable of embodying characters without limitations. After delivering a surprising and enjoyable performance as the elderly college student Samcheonpo in "Reply 1994," he has since demonstrated his ability to support a diverse range of genres, establishing a solid presence. His meticulous preparation, perfectly embodying every character's speech and gait, is considered the most powerful weapon in maximizing the realism of a production. His solid foundation, honed over time and his diligent work, has earned him deep trust from the public, making him a master craftsman who brings any role to life.
96. Lee Jun-hyuk (Secret Forest, 2017 / 60 Days, Designated Survivor, 2019)
Source: Lee Jun-hyuk's Instagram
He is a brilliant actor who sharply explores the ambiguous boundaries between good and evil, visualizing the three-dimensional desires of his characters. In "Secret Forest," he played the lovable yet lovable prosecutor Seo Dong-jae, breathing unparalleled vitality into the character. His solid vocalization and stable chemistry, transcending genre, are praised for driving the drama's tension. His ability to transform a neat and intellectual mask of vulgarity or desperation into a single glance creates a powerful sense of immersion for viewers. Through thorough character analysis in each project, he solidifies his own unique domain and has established himself as a trustworthy and lovable actor.
95. Park Hae-soo (Wise Prison Life, 2017 / Squid Game, 2021)
Source: Park Hae-soo's Instagram
He is a talented actor with a powerful voice and powerful charisma, honed on stage, capable of dominating the screen. He brought comfort and laughter to viewers as the honest and pure protagonist Kim Je-hyeok in "Prison Playbook." Since then, he has portrayed characters' desperate survival instincts with chilling precision in hit global productions. His meticulous emotional control, which never loses sight of his characters' human anguish even in extreme situations, is a key driving force in elevating the drama's perfection. With a solid foundation in acting, he is a trusted acting master who has elevated the status of Korean drama to the world.
94. Jang Hyuk (Chuno, 2010 / Money Flower, 2017)
Source: Jang Hyuk's official Instagram
He is the embodiment of passion, dominating the screen with explosive energy and animalistic sensibilities, perfecting his own unique acting aesthetic. In the drama "Chuno," he played the beastly Lee Dae-gil, demonstrating the pinnacle of Korean action acting. In "Money Flower," he defied the limitations of conventional acting by coldly yet elegantly portraying the inner self of a character possessed by a restrained desire for revenge. His intense focus, which includes performing action scenes without a stunt double and studying even the subtlest breathing sounds, becomes his most powerful weapon, maximizing the realism of his works. His unwavering dedication over the decades serves as a valuable example for his juniors and instills unwavering trust in the public.
93. Park Byung-eun (Because This is My First Life, 2017 / Kingdom, 2020)
Source: Park Byung-eun's Instagram
He possesses a sensuous acting spectrum that effortlessly shifts between everyday simplicity and cool tension, adding flavor to any drama. In "Because This Is My First Life," he invigorates romantic comedies with his sly charm, while in genre films, he perfectly embodies the inscrutable and meticulous character, proving his unrivaled presence. His cleverness in conveying the characters' struggles with restrained, yet understated, expressions empowers viewers to deeply empathize with their characters. His sincerity and stable acting skills, accumulated over a long period of time, have made him an irreplaceable actor, indispensable to any production.
92. Son Seok-gu (My Liberation Diary, 2022 / Casino, 2022)
Source: Son Seok-gu's Instagram
This actor, who combines raw, rugged charm with delicate sensibility, presents a new type of masculinity never before seen in Korean dramas. Playing the mysterious "Mr. Gu" in "My Liberation Diary," he created a sensation on TV screens with his powerful silences and gazes, surpassing his dialogue. He received praise for artistically elevating the character's loneliness and emptiness. His instinctive breathing, which breaks the mold of conventional acting, and his signature aura, which dominates the screen, serve as key elements that simultaneously infuse the drama with tension and depth. With his unparalleled individuality and profound acting philosophy, he has quickly established himself as an irreplaceable leading man, drawing the attention of his generation.
91. Park Seo-joon (Fight for My Way, 2017 / Itaewon Class, 2020)
Source: Park Seo-joon's Instagram
He is an actor who has established himself as an icon of his time, radiating both the healthy energy of youth and a profound charisma. His role as Park Sae-roi, a man who stands up to the world with his convictions, in "Itaewon Class" garnered him phenomenal popularity, and he is recognized for his exceptional ability to portray the character's inner growth with a solid acting tone. His intense character development and dedicated work, hidden behind his sophisticated visuals, have made him a key figure in the global Korean Wave and a definite box office hit on the small screen. He boasts perfect chemistry with any co-star, and possesses the power to maximize the immersion of a drama.
90. Jung Kyung-ho (Cruel City, 2013 / Hospital Playlist, 2020)
Source: Jung Kyung-ho's Instagram
He possesses a sophisticated and delicate character interpretation ability, sublimating even a character's sensitive nerves into human charm. In "Hospital Playlist," he played a prickly yet deep-hearted thoracic surgeon, earning praise for enhancing the drama's perfection with his rhythmic dialogue and stable chemistry. In genre dramas, he demonstrated a wide range of acting skills by deeply portraying the desperate struggles of undercover work. His flexibility in conveying a character's sincerity through understated, everyday acting creates a deep connection with viewers, and with each project, he establishes a unique realm with his distinct and distinctive acting.
89. Joo Won (Bridal Mask, 2012 / Good Doctor, 2013)
Source: Joo Won's Instagram
From high-difficulty action scenes to meticulously crafted inner performances, he is a skilled actor who has earned a reputation as a "ratings generator." In the drama "Bridal Mask," he portrayed the agony of a hero burdened by the pain of his time with explosive energy, and in "Good Doctor," he proved his acting prowess by purely and movingly portraying the growth of a doctor suffering from savant syndrome. His sincerity, completely immersing himself in a role and infusing the character's soul with it, is a key weapon that adds to the authenticity of the work. With solid vocalization and stable acting skills, he consistently delivers passionate performances that exceed expectations regardless of genre.
88. Park Bo-gum (Reply 1988, 2015 / Love in the Moonlight, 2016)
Source: Park Bo-gum's Instagram
He is a true icon of his time, beloved by all generations for his solid acting skills hidden behind a pure and kind facade. His portrayal of the genius Go player Taek in "Reply 1988" showcased a purity that evoked protective instincts, while his portrayal of the majestic crown prince's anguish through profound gaze in historical dramas garnered explosive popularity. His ingenuity in blending complex narratives with restrained emotional expressions is a key driving force in enhancing the drama's appeal. His upright conduct in his private life, garnering solid trust, has made him a symbol of the future of Korean drama.
87. Ji Chang-wook (Healer, 2014 / Suspicious Partner, 2017)
Source: Ji Chang-wook's Instagram
He is an all-rounder, capable of both high-difficulty action scenes utilizing his impressive physique and a delicate, melodramatic sensibility that captivates female viewers. His role as an errand boy hiding his identity in the drama "Healer" has earned him praise for simultaneously creating both spectacular visuals and profound emotional narratives, solidifying his position as a next-generation Hallyu star. His ability to capture the character's loneliness and love with a single glance exerts a powerful force, instantly immersing viewers in the drama. His dedication to building a solid filmography, while attempting limitless transformations in each project, has made him a highly reliable actor who shines in any genre.
86. Kim Hee-won (Misaeng, 2014 / The Light in Your Eyes, 2019)
From the epitome of a cool villain to the heartbreaking sorrow of a commoner, he is a veteran actor who utilizes even the slightest wrinkle on his face as a tool for his acting. He evoked intense public outrage as the cowardly and opportunistic Chief Park in the drama "Misaeng," and his reversal of emotions in "The Light in Your Eyes" has proven his wide range of acting abilities. His ability to sharply capture the characters' baseness and human suffering hidden in everyday conversations is a key driving force behind the tension in his works. His solid foundation, built over many years, makes him an irreplaceable presence in any production.
85. Yoon Kyun-sang (Six Flying Dragons, 2015 / Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People, 2017)
Source: Yoon Kyun-sang's Instagram
He possesses a unique aura, possessing both a powerful charisma radiating from his impressive physique and an innocent boyish smile. After gaining public recognition as the warrior Hyul-ryong in "Six Flying Dragons," he took on the role of Hong Gil-dong, a hero of the common people, in "Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People," thereby proving his potential as a leading actor by densely portraying the character's inner growth and anger. The genuine gaze and stable voice that emanate from his character, deeply embodying him, are powerful forces that instill deep trust and immersion in viewers. His sincere attitude in each project, which completes the character's narrative, is a solid foundation for the future of Korean dramas.
84. Park Hae-jin (My Love from the Star, 2013 / Cheese in the Trap, 2016)
Source: Park Hae-jin's Instagram
He is a cool yet passionate actor who, despite his exquisitely sculpted appearance, can convey the twisted psychology and desperate innocence of his characters. From the romantic in "My Love from the Star" to the enigmatic Yoo-jung in "Cheese in the Trap," he is praised for his ability to delicately portray the complex inner lives of his characters. His cleverness in melting his characters' loneliness and desires into restrained emotional expressions serves as a key element in enhancing the drama's appeal, and his flexibility in creating perfect harmony with his co-stars also stands out. Based on thorough self-management and a serious acting philosophy, he is a skilled actor who has firmly established his own domain.
83. Choi Jin-hyuk (The Book of the Nine-Family, 2013 / Tunnel, 2017)
Source: Choi Jin-hyuk's Instagram
He is a charismatic and talented actor who adds weight to his characters' narratives with his deep, deep voice and intense gaze. He left a lasting impression on viewers with his role as Gu Wol-ryeong, a tragically destined character, in the drama "Gu Family Book." In "Tunnel," he played a detective with a strong sense of justice and received praise for his dynamic portrayal of a desperate battle that transcended time and space. His expressive power, which melts the character's burning anger and deep sorrow into restrained acting, exerts a powerful force that instantly immerses viewers into the drama. With his ability to portray delicate emotions alongside his rough masculinity, he is a reliable actor who breathes life into each character in his works.
82. Kim Moo-yeol (My Beautiful Bride, 2015 / Juvenile Justice, 2022)
Source: Kim Moo-yeol's Instagram
Building on a solid foundation honed on stage and screen, he is an actor who perfectly balances the meticulous rationality and passionate emotions of his characters. In the drama "My Beautiful Bride," he portrayed the desperate struggle of a man who becomes a monster in search of the woman he loves through overwhelming action and passionate acting. In his most recent work, he has powerfully portrayed the anguish of a judge with conviction. His delicate expressiveness, filling even the brief pauses between lines with dramatic tension, is a crucial element in elevating the quality of his works. His sincerity and serious approach, which delve into the character's justification to the end, have made him a highly trusted actor among his colleagues and the public.
81. Lee Jun (Heard It Through the Grapevine, 2015 / Red Heart, 2022)
He is a talented actor who has overcome the stereotype of being an idol with his overwhelming character immersion, establishing a unique acting range. After vividly portraying the innocence and confusion of a child of the powerful in "Heard It Through the Grapevine," he is praised for perfectly portraying the anguish of a king engaged in a fierce political struggle with a cool gaze in the historical drama "Red Heart." His expressive ability, which delicately orchestrates the character's psychological instability and madness, is the key driving force behind his powerful thrills for viewers. His fierce dedication to completely immerse himself in each role, erasing himself from his previous work, has deeply impressed the public as a true actor.
80. Byun Yo-han (Misaeng, 2014 / Mr. Sunshine, 2018)
Source: Byun Yo-han's Instagram
He possesses a unique aura that fills the screen and a profound expressiveness that condenses a character's narrative with a single glance. After making a meteoric appearance as the sly "Han Seok-yool" in "Misaeng," he took on the role of Kim Hee-seong, who hides the pain of the times behind a witty smile, in "Mr. Sunshine," where he perfectly embodies the character's three-dimensional anguish. His solid vocalization and sensuous emotional control drive the tension of the drama and exert a powerful force that instantly captivates viewers. His chameleon-like ability to transform his face depending on the project and his serious acting attitude are invaluable assets that elevate the quality of Korean dramas.
79. Choi Woo-shik (Hogu's Love, 2015 / That Year, Us, 2021)
Source: Choi Woo-shik's Instagram
He is a unique actor who meticulously captures the complex and nuanced emotions of his characters, blending them with a raw, harmless charm. In the drama "That Year, Us," he proved his mettle as a "romantic comedy master" by portraying the awkward love of young people experiencing breakups and reunions with a realistic portrayal that felt more real than reality itself. His effortless breathing and subtle facial expressions, conveying the characters' true feelings without artificial directing, become powerful weapons that create a deep connection with viewers. Even as he builds a filmography that garners worldwide attention, his humble and sincere approach to acting has earned him unwavering trust and deep affection from the public.
78. Ryu Jun-yeol (Reply 1988, 2015 / No Longer Human, 2021)
Source: Ryu Jun-yeol's Instagram
From the simple, everyday face of a man to a character steeped in profound loss, he possesses the power to command the screen with his own unique aura. His portrayal of Jung-hwan in "Reply 1988" as a man with a poignant portrayal of the pain of clumsy first love created a sensation, and in "No Longer Human," he demonstrated the breadth of his acting spectrum by densely portraying the loneliness of youth enduring the futility of life. His unconventional, instinctive breathing and his relentless analytical ability to delve into his characters' inner selves imbue his works with a profound sense of realism. With a solid acting philosophy and a consistently challenging spirit, he displays an irreplaceable presence in every project.
77. Kim Young-min (My Mister, 2018 / The World of the Married, 2020)
Source: Ace Factory Instagram
A veteran actor with a theater background, he can portray the meanness and desperate loneliness hidden beneath kind eyes with chilling precision. In the drama "My Mister," he sharply captured the inner workings of a character driven by ambition, and in "The World of the Married," he perfectly embodied a character who was both instinctual and precarious, thereby maximizing the drama's immersion. The explosive energy emanating from his small frame maintains a tense relationship with his co-stars, serving as a key element in elevating the work's perfection. His solid fundamentals, honed over many years, and his limitless transformations have made him a sought-after actor on any set.
76. Kim Jun-han (Hospital Playlist, 2020 / Anna, 2022)
Source: Kim Jun-han's Instagram
This talented actor delicately balances the character's cool ambition with tender, innocent love, heightening the drama's intensity. Having gained public recognition for his role as a chief resident struggling with the pain of unrequited love in the drama "Hospital Playlist," he has since reached the pinnacle of his acting prowess in "Anna," portraying the complex psychology of a character obsessed with power with chilling coolness. His ability to sharply capture the character's twisted desires within a straightforward, unadorned performance is the key driving force behind the drama's tension. With his meticulous character development in each project, he solidifies his unique style and earns the trust of viewers.
75. Lee Seong-wook (365: A Year Against Fate, 2020 / People of the Korea Meteorological Administration, 2022)
Source: Lee Seong-wook's Instagram
He possesses a multifaceted charm, freely moving between eerie reversals and profound humanity hidden within the familiarity of everyday life. After receiving praise as the genre-optimized actor for his chilling, unexpected performance in <365>, he has established himself as an irreplaceable talent by demonstrating a weighty presence that supports the backbone of various works. His ability to meticulously adapt his character, completely changing his speech and atmosphere depending on the role, serves as a crucial element in enhancing the realism of the work. Based on his solid acting skills, he is a top-notch actor recognized by the industry first, who can digest even the most difficult roles with his own unique chemistry.
74. Heo Seong-tae (Monster, 2021 / Squid Game, 2021)
Source: Heo Seong-tae's Instagram
This actor dominates the screen with the overwhelming intimidation emanating from his powerful mask, and the delicate emotional portrayal that subtly counters it. In the drama "Monster," he played an ambitious man with a mysterious mind, creating a sense of sharp tension. He has also gained international recognition for his ability to portray characters' desperate survival instincts with visceral energy in hit global productions. Despite his villainous roles, his three-dimensional directing ability, which intrigues viewers with its enigmatic storyline, exerts a powerful force that draws viewers into the drama. Despite beginning his acting career late in life, his intense dedication and passion have quickly established him as an irreplaceable leading figure in Korean dramas.
73. Jin Seon-gyu (Those Who Read the Heart of Evil, 2022 / Ransom, 2022)
Source: Jin Seon-gyu's Instagram
He is a true master of acting, thrilling viewers with his ability to shift between raw innocence and explosive madness with a fine line between them. In "The Readers of Evil," he perfectly embodied the character's intellectual convictions and warm leadership as the founder of the profiling team, and analysis suggests he is unafraid to embrace radical transformations in genre films. His meticulous emotional control, completely immersing himself in his roles and imbuing them with his soul, becomes a key weapon in enhancing the drama's perfection. His humble demeanor and sincere demeanor have earned him immense public acclaim, and his passionate performances, exceeding expectations in every project, have earned him boundless trust.
72. Jeong Moon-seong (Hospital Playlist, 2020 / Black Sun, 2021) 
Source: Blossom Entertainment (former agency)
With solid foundations honed on stage and rhythmic delivery of lines, he is a talented actor who can captivate any character. In "Hospital Playlist," he infused the drama with energy as a warmhearted chief thoracic surgeon, and in genre dramas, he perfectly embodies a secretive character who alternates between cold reason and passionate emotion, demonstrating his wide spectrum of acting. His delicate expressiveness, utilizing even the smallest tremors as acting tools, is said to be the key driving force behind his deep immersion in viewers. With a solid foundation, he displays a presence that transcends lead and supporting roles, making him a reliable and lovable actor who breathes life into every character in his productions.
71. Lee Sang-yoon (My Daughter Seo-young, 2012 / Wonder Woman, 2021)
Source: Lee Sang-yoon's Instagram
He is a smart actor who melds the complex anguish and strong determination of his characters into an intellectual and gentle image. After establishing public trust by becoming the nation's son-in-law through the drama "My Daughter Seo-young," he has been praised for his stable acting tone and profound gaze in various genres, such as "Wonder Woman," which have anchored his plays. His simple chemistry, which convincingly conveys the sincerity of his characters, is a powerful weapon that simultaneously provides comfort and immersion to viewers. The solid trust he has earned by maintaining an upright stance in his private life has established him as a reliable leading actor who delivers consistent results in any role.
70. Go Kyung-pyo (Reply 1988, 2015 / Jealousy Incarnate, 2016)
Source: Go Kyung-pyo's Instagram
From comedic everyday roles to chilling villain roles, he is a brilliant and talented actor who has established his own unique territory by attempting limitless transformations. Since receiving much love for his role as model student Sunwoo in "Reply 1988," he has demonstrated remarkable flexibility, transforming his face according to the character, moving between romantic comedies and genre works. His delicate analytical skills that delve into the characters' emotional lines and his bold expressiveness that dominates the screen serve as key elements that simultaneously inject fresh energy and tension into his works. With a relentless spirit of challenge and solid fundamentals in each project, he is an irreplaceable actor who is growing into a central figure in the next generation of Korean dramas.
69. Um Tae-goo (Save Me 2, 2019 / Playful Woman, 2024)
Source: Tae-goo Eom's Instagram
With his unique husky voice and subtle sensibility hidden behind his sharp mask, he is a "genre-optimized" actor who disarms viewers. The explosive madness and wild energy he displayed in the drama "Save Me 2" sent thrills through viewers, and his recent foray into romantic comedies has proven his wide spectrum by displaying a surprisingly pure charm. His exceptional ability to convey a character's narrative through the intensity of his gaze, rather than through a single line, is a crucial driving force in elevating the perfection of his dramas. The fierce artistic spirit and sincerity hidden beneath his shyness have made him a top-notch actor recognized by his fellow actors.
68. Choi Gwi-hwa (Misaeng, 2014 / Bad Guys: City of Evil, 2017)
Source: Choi Gwi-hwa's Instagram
This veteran actor is able to three-dimensionally capture the characters' desperate survival instincts and deep humanity within the rough, everyday face of life. In the drama "Misaeng," he played the role of Park Dae-ri, nicknamed the "wingless angel," and garnered great sympathy for his realistic portrayal of the sorrows of office workers. Analysts say he drives the tension of genre dramas with his overwhelming physicality and charisma. His genuine demeanor, completely immersing himself in his roles and embodying the characters' lives, becomes his most powerful weapon, imbuing his work with a profound sense of reality. His solid foundation, built through years of obscurity, has earned him deep trust from the public, making him a reliable scene-stealer in any production.
67. Kim Ui-seong (W, 2016 / Model Taxi, 2021)
Source: Kim Ui-seong's Instagram
From a cool, mad villain to a compassionate sidekick, he is a master who perfectly embodies extreme characters, elevating the quality of his works. After demonstrating his unrivaled presence in the drama "The Last Princess," which portrayed the confusion between a writer and a fictional character with chilling performance, he has been praised for his three-dimensional portrayal of a character teetering on the line between good and evil in "Taxi Driver," demonstrating the pinnacle of his acting prowess. His commanding charisma and expressiveness, which fill even the brief pauses between lines with dramatic tension, instantly captivate viewers. His performance, which combines cool reason with fiery passion, is a key element that maximizes the genre-specific appeal of Korean dramas.
66. Kim Byeong-cheol (Goblin, 2016 / Doctor Prisoner, 2019)
Source: Kim Byeong-cheol's Instagram
He is a talented actor who captivates viewers with his magical acting ability that effortlessly shifts between chilling horror and cheerful comedy. After leaving a strong impression on the audience with his unconventional villainous performance in the drama "Goblin," he has established himself as a box office hit by portraying characters' ambitions and descent into three dimensions in dramas like "SKY Castle." His expressiveness, which portrays the twisted inner world of a character through sharp facial expressions and precise tones of dialogue, is a key driving force in maintaining the tension of the drama. His astuteness in perfectly embodying any role with his own unique color has made him an irreplaceable actor who generates the most anticipation in every project.
65. Lee Hee-jun (You Who Rolled In Unexpectedly, 2012 / Mouse, 2021)
Source: Lee Hee-jun's Instagram
He is a gifted actor who combines raw, raw vitality with meticulously calculated emotional expression, relentlessly delving into the essence of his characters. After gaining widespread acclaim in "My Secret Romance," he reached the pinnacle of his acting prowess in "Mouse," where he portrayed the madness and sorrow of a detective consumed by a desperate vengeance with explosive energy. His meticulous character analysis, which allows him to completely transform his speech and gait depending on the role, imbues his works with a profound realism and persuasiveness. Building on his solid foundation on stage, his profound artistic spirit, which continues to take on limitless challenges in each project, earns deep trust from his colleagues and the public.
64. Park Hae-joon (Misaeng, 2014 / The World of the Married, 2020)
Source: Official website (agency Instagram)
He is a master of exceptional psychological portrayal, capable of portraying the cowardice and twisted desires hidden behind refined visuals with chilling precision. From the struggling office worker in "Misaeng" to the unconventional character in "The World of the Married," he is praised for his unparalleled ability to transcend the moral compass of his roles and convince with his characters' inner justification. His commanding power, which can change the atmosphere of a drama with a single glance, and his delicate breathing control become powerful weapons that deeply immerse viewers in the characters' tragedies. His flexible acting spectrum, which allows him to digest even the most challenging characters with his own elegant and cool aura, has made him a key figure in Korean dramas.
63. Eom Ki-jun (The World They Live In, 2008 / Defendant, 2017)
Source: Uhm Ki-joon's Instagram
He possesses a unique charisma that delicately balances cool reason with maddening desire, driving the tension of the play to its peak. Drawing on his solid vocal skills honed on the musical stage, he perfectly embodied a chilling dual role in "Defendant," earning critical acclaim from viewers. His expressive ability to capture the cruelty hidden beneath the character's intellectual charm with a single shift in tone is a crucial element in driving the tension of the production. His skill in manipulating viewers on the line between good and evil, and his intensity in imbuing each character with the soul of his character, erases himself from the equation, have made him an irreplaceable, premium actor.
62. Kim Seong-cheol (Wise Prison Life, 2017 / That Year, Us, 2021)
Source: Kim Seong-cheol's Instagram
With his rhythmic acting and exceptional character interpretation, he is a next-generation leading actor who can bring any character to life. His meteoric rise as "Beopja" in "Prison Playbook" infused the drama with vitality. Since then, he has demonstrated a wide range of talent, including portraying a PD embroiled in the pain of unrequited love, solidifying his position as a solid leading actor. His clever ability to fill even the brief gaps between lines with the character's narrative is a powerful force forging a deep bond with viewers. His solid foundation, proven on stage, and his fresh, unconventional acting style have established him as one of the most promising actors poised to lead the future of Korean drama.
61. Seong Dong-il (Eun-sil, 1998 / Reply series, 2012–2015)
From his humorous, everyday acting to his cool charisma, he is a true gem of Korean drama, perfectly capturing the public's emotions. In the "Reply" series, he won nationwide sympathy with his unassuming yet heartfelt portrayal of contemporary fathers. In genre dramas, he is praised for his overwhelming composure and ability to manage the tension of a drama. His signature ad-libs and flexible chemistry, which breathe life beyond the script, are the key driving forces behind the warmth of his works. His decades of tireless dedication and the irreplaceable skill to portray any role with his own unique style have made him a renowned actor trusted by generations.
60. Kim Rae-won (Rooftop Cat, 2003 / Punch, 2014)
Source: Kim Rae-won's Instagram
He possesses an exceptional ability to simultaneously capture the character's fierce innocence and sharp ambition with his signature calm breathing. After rising to the ranks of youth stars with "Rooftop Cat," he reached the pinnacle of his acting career in the drama "Punch," where he portrayed a terminally ill prosecutor's desperate struggle with chilling performance. The weight of each line and the profound charisma that overwhelms his co-stars serve as crucial elements in enhancing the drama's perfection. His gaze deepens with age and his profound acting approach that delves into the character's essence has established him as a perpetual box office hit guarantee and a reliable and talented actor on the small screen.
59. Im Si-wan (Misaeng, 2014 / Strangers from Hell, 2019)
Source: Im Si-wan's Instagram
He is a brilliant actor who has shed the label of being an idol and perfectly embodies the character's desperate loneliness and cool madness. As Jang Geu-rae in "Misaeng," he created a sensation with his delicate and dense portrayal of the sorrows of an unfinished youth. He is also praised for breaking the boundaries of his acting spectrum with his unexpected and groundbreaking transformation in genre dramas. His delicate emotional control, melting the character's complex narrative into clear eyes, delivers intense thrills and immersion to viewers. His fierce character analysis and humble nature, which push him to the limit in each project, have made him a unique leading actor who will lead the future of Korean dramas.
58. Lee Sang-woo (The First Wives Club, 2007 / Golden Garden, 2019)
Source: Lee Sang-woo's Instagram
He possesses a stable acting ability that allows him to embody both the deep anguish and warm humanity of his characters within a neat and trustworthy image. He has been a solid leading actor, anchoring the narratives of his characters in weekend dramas and miniseries, and his ability to express emotions with unwavering sincerity and without exaggeration is considered exceptional. His ability to solidify the narrative through harmonious chemistry with his co-stars has been a key driving force behind his long-standing popularity on the small screen. His unmistakable uprightness and sincere dedication to his work have instilled deep trust in the public, and he is a top-notch actor who never loses his signature ease and persuasiveness, no matter the role he takes on.
57. Kim Kang-woo (Man's Story, 2009 / Missing Noir M, 2015)
Source: Kim Kang-woo's Instagram
He is an actor with a sophisticated acting ability that delicately balances sharp reasoning with passionate emotion, delving deep into the depths of his characters. After leaving a strong impression with his chilling villainous performance in the drama "Man's Story," he has been praised for his meticulous chemistry, seamlessly blending investigative and melodramatic roles to perfectly portray the complex inner workings of his characters. His delicate expressiveness, utilizing even the smallest tremors as acting tools, serves as a crucial element in driving the drama's tension. His powerful charisma that dominates the screen and his fierce artistic spirit that completely immerses him in his roles have made him a reliable and talented actor in any project, consistently delivering passionate performances that exceed expectations in every project.
56. Kim Young-cheol (Taejo Wang Geon, 2000 / Iris, 2009)
He is a master of his time, leaving a significant mark on Korean drama history with his overwhelming charisma and explosive energy. His role as Gung Ye in the historical drama "Taejo Wang Geon" created a sensation with the immortal line, "Who coughed?" He also demonstrated his irreplaceable power by displaying a cool and commanding presence in contemporary dramas like "Iris." His powerful vocalization and intense gaze, expressing the characters' madness and tragic endings, deliver unforgettable thrills to viewers. His unparalleled filmography, built unwaveringly over decades, and his fierce dedication to acting serve as a towering landmark for younger actors.
55. Yoo Ji-tae (Star's Lover, 2008 / Healer, 2014)
Source: Yoo Ji-tae's Instagram
With his elegant aura and deep, deep voice, he possesses an irreplaceable presence that elevates the quality of a play. In the drama "Healer," he perfectly played the role of a steadfast reporter, anchoring the storyline. He garnered acclaim for his profound portrayal of the character's intellectual charisma and inner loneliness. His expressive power, capturing delicate emotional textures alongside his overwhelming physical presence, lends the work a weighty narrative force. His profound artistic insight, recognized not only as an actor but also as a director, is the key driving force behind his three-dimensional characters, and his sincere and passionate performance resonates deeply with viewers at every moment.
54. Gosu (Piano, 2001 / Missing: The Other Side, 2020)
Source: Gosu's Instagram
Beyond his chiseled appearance, his gaze possesses a profound narrative, perfectly embodying the loneliness and innocence of his characters. He rose to stardom as a youth star with his powerful performance in the drama "Piano," and since then, he has demonstrated his flexible acting ability, shifting between restrained emotion and explosive energy in various works. Recently, in genre films like the "Missing" series, he has demonstrated his ability to solidify the center of the drama by three-dimensionally portraying the human anguish of his characters. His genuine rapport, delicately soothing his characters' inner wounds, leaves a lasting impression on viewers and is a valuable driving force in adding emotional depth to Korean dramas.
53. Cha Tae-hyun (Sunflower, 1998 / Moving, 2023)
He is a representative actor of South Korea, beloved by all generations for his characteristically cheerful energy and deeply realistic portrayal of everyday life. After gaining widespread popularity through the drama "Sunflower," he has since portrayed humane characters in countless other works, bringing comfort and enjoyment to viewers. Recently, in genre films like "Moving," he has once again demonstrated his wide acting spectrum, authentically portraying the extraordinary hidden within the ordinariness of his characters. His approachable charm, which draws viewers' empathy with his unadorned, straightforward chemistry, is considered a symbolic asset that best embodies the human-centered narratives inherent in Korean dramas.
52. Kim Seung-woo (Syndrome, 2012 / Iris, 2009)
He is a leading actor who exquisitely captures the character's cool charisma within a gentlemanly image. His commanding presence and restrained emotional performance in the drama "Iris" heightened the drama's tension to a crescendo, and his skillful chemistry with his co-stars, creating perfect synergy, is considered his greatest weapon. His solid filmography, built at the center of small screens since the 1990s, and his ability to express the inner workings of his characters with sincerity have earned him deep trust from viewers. His decades-long and dedicated acting career remains a significant indicator of the dignity and stability required of a leading actor in Korean dramas.
51. Um Tae-woong (Resurrection, 2005 / The Devil, 2007)
He is a leading actor who gave birth to the new word "force" (threatening force) through his explosive energy that bursts forth amidst restrained emotions. In the drama "Resurrection," he showcased the extremes of dual roles, opening new horizons for revenge dramas. Analysis suggests that in genre works like "The Devil," he proved his irreplaceable presence by portraying the complex inner lives of characters with cool gazes and deep breathing. His simple expressiveness, which immerses him in his roles with sincerity rather than flashy technique, leaves viewers deeply immersed and captivated. His stable acting, which imbues each role with his own unique color and anchors the drama, has contributed significantly to the elevating the genre-specific perfection of Korean dramas.
50. Son Hyun-joo (The Chaser, 2012 / The Exemplary Detective, 2020)
He is a "god of acting," capable of portraying the desperate fatherly love and profound sense of justice hidden beneath the facade of an ordinary citizen with chilling precision. His portrayal of detective Baek Hong-seok, who confronts a great evil in the drama "The Chaser," resonated deeply with viewers, demonstrating his overwhelming power to convey the character's pain directly to the viewer's heart. His mastery, which allows him to complete a narrative with a single breath and a tremble of his eyes, without exaggerated gestures, is a key driving force in determining the quality of his works. His solid filmography and sincere actions, built over decades, have earned him deep trust, and he is an irreplaceable master who can bring his unique style to any role.
49. Cha Seung-won (The Greatest Love, 2011 / A Korean Odyssey, 2017)
Source: Cha Seung-won's Instagram
With his unparalleled visuals and impressive physique, he possesses a natural flair for both comedy and tragedy. His role as the nation's top star Dokgo Jin in "The Greatest Love" created a sensation by creating an unprecedented character, and analysis suggests that he demonstrates his ingenuity in blending both bravado and sincerity in each of his works. Behind his captivating aura, his intense character analysis and meticulous delivery of lines serve as key elements that inject his work with a unique vitality. His human charm and unwavering passion, demonstrated through his work in both variety shows and dramas, have made him an irreplaceable icon beloved by all generations.
48. Ji-seong (Newhart, 2007 / Kill Me, Heal Me, 2015)
Source: Ji Sung's Instagram
He possesses a limitless spectrum, able to isolate the multiple selves inherent within a single character with remarkable focus. In "Kill Me, Heal Me," he perfectly embodied a character with seven distinct personalities, reaching the pinnacle of his acting prowess. He earned public acclaim for his fierce artistic spirit, erasing himself in each project and imbuing the soul of his characters with it. His delicate expressiveness, capturing the pain and love of his characters with a single glance, exerts a powerful force that instantly immerses viewers in the drama. His solid filmography, built on meticulous self-management and a serious acting philosophy, has established him as one of the most reliable leading actors on the small screen and a guaranteed box office hit.
47. Shin Ha-kyun (Brain, 2011 / The Host, 2021)
He is an actor who truly deserves the title "Ha Kyun-shin," as he delves into the depths of his characters with his unpredictable acting and maniacal immersion. In the drama "Brain," he showcased his overwhelming acting prowess as Lee Kang-hoon, a doctor with obsessive ambition, winning the Grand Prize. In "The Host," he received praise for his chilling facial expressions that portrayed the complex psychology of a character harboring a secret. His meticulous emotional control, filling even the brief gaps between lines with tension, is a crucial element in enhancing the drama's intensity. His fierce spirit of challenge, rejecting conventional frameworks and constantly pursuing new acting aesthetics, has elevated the quality of Korean dramas to a new level.
46. Kim Sang-joong (The Chaser, 2012 / The Rebel, 2017)
With his deep, deep voice and cool charisma, he is a skilled actor who serves as a solid foundation, supporting the center of the drama. In the drama "The Chaser," he played a politician with cold ambition, meticulously portraying the boundaries between good and evil. In "Rebel," he portrayed the desperate story of a father who becomes a monster for his son with passionate energy, drawing viewers into tears. His weighty performance, which melts the character's inner anguish into restrained emotion, imbues the work with a weighty sense of legitimacy and dignity. Combining the credibility he built hosting current affairs programs with his profound acting skills, he has become a master of Korean drama, earning the public's unwavering trust.
45. Song Kang-ho (Uncle Sam-sik, 2024 / Fearless Love, 1992)
A master of Korean cinema and a face of his generation with unparalleled acting prowess, he recently made a comeback in dramas, proving his overwhelming presence on the small screen. Breaking a long hiatus since his early 1990s drama career, he returned to the small screen with "Uncle Sam-sik," earning praise for his dense performance that layered the intricate desires and humanity of a character living in turbulent times. His powerful lines and his signature chemistry, which dominate the screen, played a crucial role in elevating the drama's quality to cinematic proportions. His passionate performances, which breathe life into characters regardless of genre or medium, are a remarkable asset, symbolizing the artistic depth of Korean content.
44. Joo Jin-mo (Empress Ki, 2013 / My Love Eun-dong, 2015)
Despite his chiseled appearance, he possesses a profound gaze that simultaneously captures the character's rough wildness and heartbreaking innocence. In the drama "Empress Ki," he played the Goryeo king facing a tragic fate, showcasing a powerful charisma and bold acting. In melodramas, he has proven his wide spectrum by delicately portraying the character's intense longing. His signature aura and stable voice, which dominate the screen, add weight to the drama and exert a powerful force that instantly immerses viewers into the story. His solid foundation built up over many years as a leading actor and his earnest attitude that delves into the character's essence have left an unwavering trust and deep impression on the audience.
43. Kam Woo-sung (Love Era, 2006 / Should We Kiss First?, 2018)
He is a master of delicate expressions that translate the subtle air of everyday life into acting, and of emotional acting that leaves a heartbreaking lingering impression. In the drama "Love Affair," he is praised for establishing his unique position as a "master of melodrama" by realistically portraying the complex and nuanced emotions of love that persist after a breakup. His simple breathing, which penetrates the viewer's heart with the sadness and loneliness of his characters without excessive emotional excess, serves as a decisive element that elevates the quality of his works. His inner composure that deepens with time and his earnest attitude that obsessively delves into the essence of his characters have established him as a top-notch actor who is trusted in any project.
42. Lee Jun-ki (The King and the Clown, 2005 / The Flower of Evil, 2020)
Source: Lee Jun-ki's Instagram
He possesses an irreplaceable energy, combining dazzling action and delicate emotional lines to pioneer his own unique genre. In dramas like "Time Between Dog and Wolf," he demonstrated a precision that never lost sight of the characters' desperate narratives, even amidst high-difficulty action scenes. In his most recent work, he perfectly embodies a character with complex psychology, reaching the pinnacle of his acting prowess. His unwavering passion for his characters and his signature charisma that dominates the screen serve as a powerful driving force, elevating the drama's immersion to the highest level. With a solid global fan base and unwavering sincerity, he continues to take on limitless challenges in each project, making him a premier actor representing Korean dramas.
41. So Ji-sub (I'm Sorry, I Love You, 2004 / Master's Sun, 2013)
Source: So Ji-sub's Instagram
With his gaze steeped in lonely sadness and commanding presence, he possesses a unique aura that has created a huge sensation on TV screens. His portrayal of "Sorry, I Love You" earned him the nickname "Soganji," perfectly blending rugged masculinity with poignant emotion. He has proven his agility in breathing life into his characters, straddling both romantic comedies and thrilling genres. His expressive power, conveying his characters' struggles through intense silences and profound facial expressions, rather than through dialogue, has become a key weapon in forging a deep emotional connection with viewers. His solid filmography, built through meticulous self-management and a measured approach to acting, has established him as a leading actor, symbolizing his generation.
40. Song Seung-heon (Autumn in My Heart, 2000 / East of Eden, 2008)
Source: Song Seung-heon's Instagram
A pioneer of the Korean Wave, he embodies both a lyrical melodrama and a rugged charisma, all while remaining sculptural. His role in the drama "Autumn in My Heart" created a sensation across Asia, establishing him as the crown prince of the small screen. Since then, he has garnered praise for his solid performances in both period and genre films, portraying the turbulent lives of his characters with poignant depth. His gaze, which deeply captures his characters' sorrow, and his overwhelming aura, which dominates the screen, are key elements that add narrative weight to his works. His sincerity and serious acting, which have maintained his position at the top for a long time, have established him as a leading actor, a symbol of Korean drama, and a reliable force.
39. Shared (Coffee Prince, 2007 / Goblin, 2016)
Source: Gong Yoo's Instagram
He is an icon of his time, possessing both a gentle charm that evokes excitement and a profound acting ability that penetrates the characters' existential anguish. After reaching the pinnacle of romantic comedy with "The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince," he created a sensation with "Goblin," perfectly portraying the tragedy and love of a character who lives an immortal life that transcends time and space. His astute expressiveness, which captures the characters' sincerity within the natural rhythm of everyday life, becomes a powerful weapon for forming a deep bond with viewers. Hidden behind his sophisticated image, his intense character analysis and exceptional eye for project selection allow him to renew his life's roles with each new one, making him an actor who enjoys the full support of all generations.
38. Jo In-seong (What Happened in Bali, 2004 / That Winter, the Wind Blows, 2013)
Source: Jo In-sung's Instagram
He possesses an irreplaceable aura, capable of expressing the characters' desperate desires and fragile inner deprivations with explosive emotional lines. In the drama "What Happened in Bali," he demonstrated his acting prowess by creating a unique character, and his ability to portray the character's profound loneliness hidden behind his stunning visuals with sharp chemistry is exceptional. His overwhelming physicality that dominates the screen and his flexibility in maintaining the tense tension with his co-stars are the decisive driving forces that elevate the drama's immersion to the peak. His bold choices that break the mold in each project and his earnest passion for relentlessly delving into the essence of his characters have established him as one of the most captivating leading actors in Korean dramas.
37. Jo Seung-woo (Secret Forest, 2017 / Life, 2018)
Source: Agency Instagram
From emotionless, colorless performances to explosive energy, he is a natural acting master who delicately orchestrates extremes. In "Secret Forest," he played the emotionless prosecutor Hwang Si-mok, perfectly constructing the character's narrative with just the subtle tremors of his eyes and the tone of his lines, earning praise that "Cho Seung-woo is the genre itself." His overwhelming vocalization, honed on stage, and his meticulous expressiveness, which fills even the brief silences between lines with narrative, are the key driving forces that elevate the quality of his works. His analytical ability to fully delve into the character's justification and his commanding charisma on screen inspire boundless trust in the audience, and he is a top-notch actor who delivers thrills that surpass expectations with every production.
36. Hyun Bin (My Name is Kim Sam-soon, 2005 / Crash Landing on You, 2019)
Behind his elegant mask, he perfectly harmonizes his character's strong convictions with a lyrical melodrama sensibility, making him an absolute powerhouse on the small screen. With two sensational dramas, "My Name is Kim Sam-soon" and "Secret Garden," he established himself as a master of romantic comedies. In his most recent work, he has reached the pinnacle of the global Hallyu wave by masterfully conveying his character's unwavering charm with a stable acting tone. His delicate chemistry, which melts the character's loneliness and love into restrained emotional expressions, has a powerful force that instantly captivates viewers. His meticulous self-management and sincere acting philosophy, grounded in his dedication to limitless transformation in each project, have made him one of the most elegant actors of his generation.
35. Lee Jong-suk (I Hear Your Voice, 2013 / Big Mouth, 2022)
Source: Lee Jong-suk's Instagram
He is a talented actor who can convey the character's desperate narrative and sharp intellect behind a mask of boyish charm. In the drama "I Hear Your Voice," he perfectly embodied a mysterious character who can read others' minds, and in genre films, he is praised for reaching the pinnacle of acting by portraying the character's desperate survival instinct with overwhelming concentration. His rhythmic delivery of lines that bring out the script's richness and his fantastic chemistry with his co-stars serve as key elements in heightening the drama's immersion. Through his exceptional vision for works and relentless acting transformation, he establishes his own solid domain, providing both a refreshing shock and trust to viewers with each project.
34. Park Shin-yang (Lovers in Paris, 2004 / Sign, 2011)
Source: Park Shin-yang's Instagram
He is a unique leading role in the Korean drama world, dominating the entire drama with detailed character analysis and explosive energy. In <Lovers in Paris>, he reached the pinnacle of romantic comedy and created a national syndrome, and in the medical investigation drama <Sign>, he is said to have opened a new horizon for the genre by depicting the agony of an uncompromising forensic scientist with sharp and intense breathing. The overwhelming sense of immersion contained in each line of dialogue and the fierce acting philosophy that convinces the legitimacy of the character are the key driving force behind elevating the quality of the work. He is a true acting master who perfectly recreates the character with his own unique color in each work and gains infinite trust from the public.
33. Kwon Sang-woo (Stairway to Heaven, 2003 / Fly, Dragon, 2020)
He is a star of his time, mastering poignant melodramas, gritty action sequences, and lighthearted comedy with his own unique style. With "Stairway to Heaven," he created a nationwide sensation and became the center of the Korean Wave, earning praise for his ability to instinctively portray the profound love and pain of his characters. His timeless energy and unfazed portrayal of everyday life are powerful weapons that simultaneously connect viewers with a sense of familiarity and deep empathy. His dynamic directing, utilizing his robust physique, and his astuteness in highlighting the human side of his characters are the driving force and irreplaceable strength that has made him a beloved figure on television for so long.
32. Park Hee-soon (My Name, 2021 / Model Family, 2022)
Source: Park Hee-soon's Instagram
With his cool charisma and deep, deep voice, he commands the tension of his dramas, becoming a master of representative Korean genre dramas. His overwhelming villainous performance in the drama "My Name" garnered worldwide acclaim for its three-dimensional portrayal of the character's loneliness and cruelty. His unique aura, which dominates the screen, is said to be a key driving force in enhancing the work's genre-specific perfection. His delicate expressiveness and restrained emotional performance, which conveys the character's inner wounds with a single glance, deeply immerses viewers and leaves a lasting impression. His solid foundation, honed over decades in theater, film, and drama, has established him as an irreplaceable, premium actor, trusted by viewers.
31. Kim Woo-bin (School 2013, 2012 / The Heirs, 2013)
Source: Kim Woo-bin's Instagram
He is a symbolic leading actor of this era, capable of blending unparalleled visuals and a rebellious spirit with a warm humanity. After rising to stardom with his unrivaled aura in "The Heirs," he has since proven his potential as a leading actor by authentically portraying the growth of his characters in various works. His intense gaze that pierces the screen and his flexibility in expressing his characters' sorrow with sincerity exert a powerful force that instantly captivates viewers. His return from a long illness, coupled with his deepened acting skills and mature demeanor, has earned him recognition as one of the brightest stars elevating the status of Korean dramas.
30. Bae Yong-joon (Winter Sonata, 2002 / The Legend, 2007)
He is a unique figure who embodies the massive cultural phenomenon of the Korean Wave, hiding a strong charisma behind a gentle smile. Through the drama "Winter Sonata," he created the "Yonsama" syndrome across Asia and made Korean dramas known to the world. In "Taewangsasingi," he proved his potential by portraying the majesty of King Gwanggaeto the Great with an overwhelming aura. His expressive power, which delicately portrays the character's inner loneliness and love, exerts a powerful force that instantly immerses viewers into the drama. His meticulous self-management and near-perfect character analysis have made him an icon of his time and a legendary leading role who cannot be left out of the history of Korean drama.
29. Song Joong-ki (The Innocent Man, 2012 / Descendants of the Sun, 2016)
Source: Song Joong-ki's Instagram
He is a brilliant actor who delicately navigates between boyish freshness and cool charisma, standing at the pinnacle of the global Korean Wave. His role in the drama "Descendants of the Sun" created a sensation across Asia, establishing him as an icon of the home theater. His solid acting skills are recognized for his ability to portray complex psychological battles and twisted desires in genre dramas. His exceptional ability to read between the lines of a script and his flexibility to create perfect synergy with his co-stars are key drivers of his dramas' captivating impact. His unwavering self-discipline and exceptional talent for project selection ensure he consistently creates new and memorable characters, elevating the status of Korean drama as a true leading figure of the times.
28. Lee Min-ho (Boys Over Flowers, 2009 / The Heirs, 2013)
Source: Lee Min-ho's Instagram
With his unparalleled visuals and overwhelming star power, he is a symbolic figure of the global Hallyu Wave, imprinting Korean dramas on the world. His meteoric rise as Gu Jun-pyo in "Boys Over Flowers" ignited pan-Asian popularity, and he has since proven his prowess as a leading actor by portraying the growth of characters with compelling chemistry across diverse genres. His signature aura, which fills the screen, and his ability to deeply capture the loneliness of his characters exert a powerful force that instantly captivates viewers. His unwavering dedication to constantly transforming his acting, despite maintaining his position at the top for so long, has solidified his position as an irreplaceable leading actor and a premier star, beloved worldwide.
27. Won Bin (The Top, 2000 / Autumn in My Heart, 2000)
Beyond his chiseled appearance, he is an icon of his time, instinctively capturing the characters' desperate sorrow and rebellious nature. He created a sensation with the immortal line, "Love? Don't make me laugh. I'll buy it with money now," in the drama "Autumn in My Heart." His unique charm, combining rugged masculinity with a lyricism that evokes protective instincts, captivated viewers. Despite his short career, his lasting impression is more powerful than any other actor, and his captivating gaze and emotional rapport imbued his work with immense narrative weight. As a legendary figure symbolizing the golden age of Korean drama, he is imprinted in the public's memory as an eternal youth figure.
26. Joo Ji-hoon (Princess Hours, 2006 / Kingdom, 2019)
Source: Joo Ji-hoon's Instagram
This actor, who possesses a unique aura that simultaneously combines decadent aesthetics with intellectual charisma, has broadened the horizons of Korean genre dramas. After a dazzling debut with "Goong," which elevated him to the ranks of youth stars, he has since garnered praise for his captivating portrayal of characters' anguish and strong leadership in blockbuster dramas like "Kingdom." His intense gaze, more powerful than his dialogue, and his refined chemistry, which captures the characters' narratives, are key weapons in driving the drama's tension. With each project, he presents a unique and unconventional interpretation of his characters, consistently providing both fresh shock and trust to the audience. With solid fundamentals and a dedicated approach, he is a leading figure at the center of Korean dramas today.
25. Lee Jung-jae (Hourglass, 1995 / Squid Game, 2021)
Source: Lee Jung-jae's Instagram
From his debut as an icon of his time to his rise to global stardom, he has consistently rewritten the history of Korean dramas with his groundbreaking transformations. His role as bodyguard Baek Jae-hee, whose presence was evident through silence, created a nationwide sensation in "Hourglass." More recently, he has garnered global recognition for his portrayal of the desperate survival instincts of ordinary citizens. His fluid chemistry, which simultaneously captures the characters' abject humility and sublimity, and his commanding charisma are key elements in determining the perfection of his works. His fierce artistic spirit, which has driven him to relentlessly prove himself for decades, has elevated the status of Korean dramas, making him a living legend.
24. Jang Dong-gun (The Last Match, 1994 / All About Eve, 2000)
Beyond his flawless visuals, he is a symbol of the golden age of Korean drama, instinctively expressing the ambition and sorrow of his characters. After rising to stardom through "The Last Match," he perfectly blended gentle charisma with cool intellect in roles like "All About Eve," earning him overwhelming support from viewers. His expressive power, blending his characters' complex narratives with an overwhelming aura that pierces the screen, exerts a powerful force that instantly immerses viewers in the drama. The sincerity and profound acting philosophy he demonstrated while maintaining his position at the top for a long time have made him a pioneer of the Korean Wave and an irreplaceable icon beloved by the public.
23. Choi Soo-jong (First Love, 1996 / King Taejo, 2000)
Source: Choi Soo-jong's Instagram
As the title "King of Viewership" suggests, he is a master of his time, possessing the most overwhelming box office power in Korean drama history. From the all-time highest-rated drama "First Love" to the epic historical drama "Taejo Wang Geon," he has earned praise for perfectly embodying the strong leadership and heartbreaking paternal love of his characters across both modern and historical dramas. His meticulous analytical skills, which delve into his characters' emotional arcs, and his powerful vocal delivery, which dominates the screen, are the key driving forces that imbue his works with immense narrative weight. His decades of unwavering self-management and fierce dedication to acting have served as a towering milestone for younger generations, and he has been engraved as a national actor who engenders unwavering trust among the public.
22. Yoo Dong-geun (Tears of the Dragon, 1996 / Jeong Do-jeon, 2014)
He is a living legend and a master of acting in Korean drama history, establishing the discipline of his plays with his overwhelming charisma and bold performances. His portrayal of Yi Bang-won in "Tears of the Dragon" thrilled viewers with his portrayal of the emperor's loneliness and madness, and his portrayal of Yi Seong-gye in "Jeong Do-jeon" is considered to have brought the character's human agony and profound majesty to life with chilling precision. The weight of each line and the commanding presence that overwhelms his co-stars are key elements that determine the quality of his work. His unparalleled filmography, built while maintaining his pride and dignity as an actor, has made him a reliable pillar of the home theater and a top-tier talent whose mere presence validates the value of his work.
21. Ahn Jae-wook (Stars in My Heart, 1997 / Light and Shadow, 2011)
Source: Ahn Jae-wook's Instagram
He is the undisputed crown prince of the small screen and a talented leading man who pioneered the first-generation Korean Wave and rocked Asia. His role as Kang Min in "Star in My Heart" created an unprecedented sensation, demonstrating the explosive influence of Korean dramas worldwide. He is praised for his ability to capture the character's anguish and passion with explosive singing and delicate acting. His solid foundation on stage and his skill in creating perfect chemistry with his co-stars are the key driving forces behind his dramas' immersive performances. The familiarity and stable acting skills he cultivated through countless projects have solidified his status as one of the most radiant actors of our time.
20. Kim Sang-kyung (The Great King Sejong, 2008 / What's Wrong with Family, 2014)
He is a representative Korean actor with exceptional talent who can most authentically portray the human anguish and noble convictions of his characters. In the drama "The Great King, Sejong," he demonstrated the pinnacle of historical drama acting by three-dimensionally portraying the agony of the virtuous King Sejong. In modern dramas, he has been praised for his simple and warm portrayal of the joys and sorrows of the common people, resonating with all generations. Rather than overwhelming the screen with exaggerated acting, his deep analytical ability to calmly delve into the inner workings of his characters is the key driving force behind his works' weighty realism and persuasiveness. His skillful adjustment of his tone and gaze depending on the role, coupled with his intense seriousness in his performances, have established him as one of the most reliable leading actors on the small screen and a guarantee of box office success.
19. Lee Seo-jin (Damo, 2003 / Lee San, 2007)
He is a talented leading actor who has created unique characters in both historical and contemporary dramas by combining intellectual sophistication and strong restraint. In the drama "Damo," he created the "Damo addict" syndrome with the immortal line, "Are you sick? I'm sick too." In "Yi San," he achieved acclaim by winning Best Actor awards for his profound portrayal of King Jeongjo's anguish and majesty. His flexible acting tone, which allows him to express his characters' inner pain with unvarnished sincerity, is a powerful weapon that deeply immerses viewers and leaves a lasting impression. With his unwavering self-discipline and profound acting philosophy, he convinces the legitimacy of each character in each project, making him a symbolic actor who has elevated the quality of Korean drama.
18. Cha In-pyo (Love in Your Embrace, 1994 / Fireworks, 2000)
Source: Cha In-pyo's Instagram
With his flawless visuals and gentlemanly image, he created an unprecedented sensation on the small screen in the 90s, becoming an icon of his era. His debut with "Love in Your Embrace" garnered nationwide popularity, ushering in the golden age of trendy dramas. Since then, he has solidified his position as a leading actor by consistently portraying his characters' intense charisma and human struggles in various works. His genuine attitude, which captures the characters' narratives within an overwhelming aura that dominates the screen, serves as a key element in maximizing the drama's popular impact. His upright actions, demonstrated through his social contribution activities, and his consistent passion for acting have made him an irreplaceable national actor, respected by all generations.
17. Park Young-gyu (Jeong Do-jeon, 2014 / Chief Kim, 2017)
He possesses an overwhelming sense of presence, freely moving between comedy and tragedy, transforming the very atmosphere of a play. After receiving widespread acclaim for his witty comedic performances in sitcoms, he took on the role of seasoned politician Lee In-im in the classic historical drama "Jeong Do-jeon," displaying a chilling charisma and insightful performance that earned him praise as a "rediscovery of Park Young-gyu." His expressive power, which captures the character's greed and strategy through sharp dialogue and deep vocalization, becomes a crucial driving force in driving the tension of the work. His solid acting skills, honed over decades, allow him to breathe life into characters in any genre, making him a true master of acting who consistently delights and inspires trust.
16. Ji Jin-hee (Dae Jang Geum, 2003 / Misty, 2018)
Source: Ji Jin-hee's Instagram
With his gentle charisma and consistent stability, he is a solid leading role in the home theater, firmly anchoring the center of dramas. In the global hit Dae Jang Geum, he played the role of Min Jeong-ho, a pure and innocent man, showcasing the charm of Korean men worldwide. In his most recent work, he has demonstrated the depth of his acting spectrum by delicately portraying the character's complex desires and sorrows. His cleverness in conveying the character's sincerity through restrained, yet understated, emotional expressions exerts a powerful force, allowing viewers to deeply empathize with his characters. His long and dedicated filmography, built up by his dedication and dedication, has established him as an irreplaceable actor indispensable to any production.
15. Kim Yun-seok (Resurrection, 2005 / Do It When You Have It, 2006)
Before dominating the big screen, he was a masterful actor who made a strong impression on the small screen with his cool charisma and explosive energy. His three-dimensional villainous performance in the drama "Resurrection" raised the tension to its peak, thrilling viewers. He also demonstrated his unrivaled command over the character's twisted desires with sharp breathing. The heavy aura that dominates the screen and the narrative weight conveyed by each line serve as key elements in determining the perfection of a work. His fierce artistic spirit, which allows him to completely immerse himself in a role, obliterating himself and imbuing the character with his soul, has established him as one of the most powerful actors connecting Korean drama and film.
14. Lee Byung-hun (All In, 2003 / Mr. Sunshine, 2018)
Source: Lee Byung-hun's Instagram
With his overwhelming acting prowess and unparalleled gaze, he is the leading actor who elevated the scale of Korean dramas to world-class status. With "All In," he reigned as the emperor of the small screen, creating an unprecedented sensation. In "Mr. Sunshine," he reached the pinnacle of his acting prowess, portraying the tragic fate and sublime love of his characters with exquisite chemistry. His delicate expressiveness, utilizing even the slightest muscle tremors as acting tools, and his charisma that instantly dominates the screen provide viewers with a wondrous sense of immersion. His status as a global star and his unwavering passion for acting have established him as a perfect actor symbolizing his era and an irreplaceable Korean gem.
13. Choi Min-sik (Years of Ambition, 1990 / Moon of Seoul, 1994)
With his instinctive sensibility and passionate energy, he is a towering figure in the Korean acting world, capable of boldly portraying characters from the lowest of times to the most noble of convictions. His humane performance in the drama "The Moon of Seoul" won him nationwide acclaim, embodying the joys and sorrows of ordinary Koreans. His sharp insight into the essence of his characters and his explosive mastery are praised for lending weighty legitimacy to the drama. His expressive power, blending the complex narratives of his characters with his overwhelming presence that pierces the screen, serves as a milestone that provides immense inspiration to future actors. As a leading actor who laid the foundation for the golden age of Korean drama, his powerful chemistry and genuine performance remain a legend in the public's memory.
12. Son Chang-min (Gukhee, 1999 / Shin Don, 2005)
Behind a neat and intellectual facade, he exquisitely blends the rough ambition and fiery energy of his characters, a veteran of Korean dramas. From the tenacious resolve he displayed in "Gukhee" to the mad genius he displayed in "Shin Don," analysis suggests that he perfectly embodies the multi-layered psychology of his characters across genres. His aura, commanding the screen with his precise diction and deep, deep voice, serves as a crucial element in driving the tension of the drama. His solid foundation, honed over decades as a leading actor, and his genuine demeanor, which convinces the legitimacy of his characters, have established him as a reliable pillar of the small screen, a masterful actor who embodies his own unique style in any role.
11. Han Seok-kyu (The Moon of Seoul, 1994 / Deep-Rooted Tree, 2011)
He is a master of the acting aesthetic, meticulously orchestrating the sharp reason and explosive emotion hidden beneath an elegant mask. After captivating viewers with "The Moon of Seoul," he took on the role of King Sejong in "Deep-Rooted Tree," earning praise as a "god of acting" for his astonishing vocalization and breathing that conveyed the character's anguish and anger. His meticulous expressiveness, filling even the brief silences between lines with narrative, and his commanding charisma that dominates the screen are the key driving forces that determine the quality of his works. His sincere attitude, which convinces the audience of his characters' righteousness to the end, and his fierceness, which erases himself and lives as the character in each project, have made him an indelible symbol in the history of Korean drama.
10. Park Geun-hyung (Eyes of Dawn, 1991 / The Chaser, 2012)
He is a formidable force in the Korean acting world, establishing the discipline of dramas with his unrivaled majesty and cool charisma. From "Eyes of Dawn" to "The Chaser," he has dominated the home theater with his chilling, eye-catching performances that portray the characters' greed and absolute power. The weight of each line and the weighty aura that dominates the screen are key elements that lend his works a grand narrative legitimacy. His unparalleled filmography, built through decades of tireless self-improvement, and his fierce artistic spirit that delves into his characters' innermost depths have established him as an eternal mentor to all his junior actors and a living legend symbolizing the history of Korean drama.
9. Information Stone (See Again, See Again, 1998 / Giant, 2010)
Source: Jeong Bo-seok's Instagram He is the epitome of an "acting chameleon," meticulously concealing the madness and vicious ambition of his characters behind a gentlemanly visage. His chilling villainous performance as Jo Pil-yeon in the drama "Giant" was praised for creating the most powerful villain in Korean drama history, and his thoroughness in perfectly changing even the tone of his voice depending on the role is thrilling. His outstanding expressiveness, which three-dimensionally blends the character's intellectual charm and twisted inner self, is the decisive driving force behind the tension of the work. His flexibility to perfectly reinterpret any character with his own unique color and his unwavering spirit of challenge have made him a top-tier actor trusted across all eras.
8. Jeon Gwang-ryeol (Heo Jun, 1999 / Bread, Love and Dreams, 2010)
His powerful, heart-wrenching performances and the artful elevation of his characters' desperate narratives are a surefire hit on the small screen. His national drama "Heo Jun" achieved viewership ratings of over 60%, creating a sensation. His uniquely emotional performance, which conveyed the character's noble convictions and suffering with a single glance, is said to have resonated deeply with the public. His exquisite synergy, which truly fills the gaps between his lines, and his commanding presence, which fills the screen, imbue his work with a powerful vitality and emotion. His fierce passion, which allows him to fully immerse himself in his roles, and his genuine attitude, which deeply connects with the audience, have earned him the title of one of the greatest leading actors of the golden age of Korean drama.
7. Lee Soon-jae (What is Love, 1991 / Heo Jun, 1999) 
Source: Official website
He is a living witness and master of Korean acting, revered by all generations, spanning the history of Korean drama from its inception to its present. From his role as the head of a large family in "What Is Love?" to his role as the teacher Yoo Eui-tae in "Heo Jun," he is praised for his perfect vocalization and controlled breathing, conveying the warmth of humanity hidden within the strictness of his characters. His meticulous character analysis, faithful to the script while also imbuing them with soul, and his commanding presence on screen are key elements that determine the quality of his works. His unwavering dedication to acting, demonstrated through decades of unwavering dedication and diligence, has become a tremendous milestone for younger generations, and he is a great teacher of our time, imbuing the public with unwavering trust and inspiration.
6. Shingu (Taejo Wang Geon, 2000 / Thank You, 2007)
He is a veteran actor representing South Korea who captures the deep anguish and sublime love of his characters through the simple, everyday appearances of his characters. His heartbreaking performance as a dementia patient in the drama "Thank You" made viewers reflect on the true meaning of forgiveness and love, and his wide spectrum, spanning both historical and contemporary dramas, is widely praised. His sharp yet warm gaze, penetrating the weight of life and the essence of a character in a single line, imbues his work with profound resonance. His solid foundation, built through a lifetime of dedicated acting, and his simple sincerity that resonates deeply with the public have made him one of the most beloved adults in Korean drama history and an irreplaceable master.
5. Kim Myung-min (Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-sin, 2004 / White Tower, 2007) 
He is the lead actor of "Myeongminjwa," who has elevated the bar for Korean drama acting by demonstrating thorough self-management and the pinnacle of method acting. His portrayal of the struggles of a hero in "Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-sin" garnered national acclaim, and his portrayal of Jang Jun-hyeok in "White Tower" is considered to have created the most three-dimensional and ambitious character in Korean drama history. His tenacious craftsmanship, which allows him to perfectly immerse himself in his roles down to his every word and gait, exerts a powerful force that even inspires awe in viewers. His overwhelming skill, which allows him to captivate even the most challenging roles with his own unique charisma, has established him as one of the most consummate actors of his time.
4. Lee Beom-su (Surgeon Bong Dal-hee, 2007 / Giant, 2010)
With his solid vocalization and refined breathing, he is a leading actor in the small screen, three-dimensionally portraying the character's ambition and humanity. He proved his acting prowess by creating the "Buruk Beomsu" syndrome in the drama "Surgeon Bong Dal-hee," and in "Giant," he captured the acting award for his overwhelming energy in portraying the character's turbulent life and revenge narrative. His astute expressiveness, which fills even the brief gaps between lines with the character's narrative, and his experience in creating perfect synergy with his co-stars are key elements in enhancing the drama's immersion. His solid foundation, which allows him to persuasively portray any role with his own unique color, has made him one of the most reliable leading actors representing his era.
3. Namgoong Min (Chief Kim, 2017 / Lovers, 2023)
Source: Namgoong Min's Instagram
He is the undisputed "trustworthy actor" of this era, perfectly embodying his characters and dominating the flow of the drama regardless of genre. After reaching the pinnacle of his unparalleled comedic acting in the drama "Chief Kim," he has been praised for creating a sensation with each project, unleashing his characters' poignant narratives and profound charisma with overwhelming skill in works like "Lovers." His meticulous analytical skills, which delve into the lines of the script, and his exquisite chemistry that dominates the screen, provide viewers with a wondrous sense of immersion and catharsis. His fierce artistic spirit, which erases himself and renews his life character every time, and his overwhelming box office success have established him as a powerful leading actor symbolizing both the present and future of Korean drama.
2. Jeong Jun-ho (The Last Scandal of My Life, 2008 / Iris, 2009)
He is a guaranteed box office hit on the small screen, delicately balancing a sly comedic instinct and cool charisma hidden behind his handsome appearance. In "Iris," he reached the pinnacle of his acting prowess by powerfully portraying the conflict between a character's twisted desires and friendship, and his signature flexible rhythm in romantic comedies created a sensation. His expressive power, delicately incorporating the character's multi-layered psychology into an overwhelming aura, exerts a powerful force that instantly captivates viewers. His solid filmography, built over many years as a leading actor, and his exceptional ability to maximize the popular impact of his works have made him one of the most captivating leading actors of our time.
1. Choi Bul-am (Chief of the Investigation Team, 1971 / Country Diary, 1980)
Source: Seoul Metropolitan Government
He is the true father of our time, a timeless legend who represents the roots of Korean drama and the national sentiment. From the charismatic detective in "Chief Inspector" to Chairman Kim in "Country Diaries," he is praised for laying the foundation for Korean drama by portraying the noble humanity and the joys and sorrows of life with a unique presence. His expressive power, which captures the narrative of the times through deep silences and his characteristically kind smile, rather than through dialogue, leaves an indelible and profound resonance in the hearts of the entire nation. The artistic spirit and humble nature displayed through his dedicated acting career for over half a century have made him a supreme figure in the history of Korean drama, an irreplaceable and immortal leader.
The 100 actors selected this time have breathed life into the public's hearts, each embodying a different era. Some breathe life into the fictional world of drama with the gentle faces of our time, while others breathe life into the chilling voices of their time. While space limitations prevent us from including every name, their filmographies are a vivid record of modern Korean history and intertwine with the trajectories of our lives.
We pay tribute to the brilliant achievements of those who have broadened the horizons of Korean drama, and we support their future endeavors with the love of the public.
