Top 11 Most Famous Korean Heartthrobs Today

So Ji Sub, born on November 4, 1977, in Seoul, is a renowned South Korean actor. He began his career as a model before making his debut in acting with the role of Park Chul Woong in the movie 'Glass Slippers.' Since then, So Ji Sub has delivered several iconic performances in works like 'Ghost' and 'Master’s Sun,' the latter marking a pivotal point in his acting career. More recently, he starred in 'Oh My Venus,' and despite being one of the older faces in the group of Korean heartthrobs, he continues to captivate audiences, especially women. In 2019, So Ji Sub publicly announced his relationship with broadcaster Jo Eun Jung, marking the first time he had ever shared details of his personal life during his career.

So Ji Sub initially gained attention as a model before transitioning to acting. He was also a competitive swimmer and won national medals in his youth. His early acting roles were minor, such as in the film 'Model.' His first major role came in 2002 when he starred in the SBS drama 'Glass Slippers,' portraying a young man who falls in love with the female lead. In 2005, he starred in the hit drama 'I’m Sorry, I Love You,' a role that earned him numerous awards and widespread recognition across Asia. So Ji Sub's career was briefly interrupted when he served his mandatory military service in South Korea, but he officially completed his service and returned to acting on April 27, 2007. He also featured in the popular series 'The Sun of the Lord.'

Lee Min Ho, born on June 22, 1987, is a South Korean actor and model, widely recognized for his roles in popular dramas such as Goo Jun-pyo in 'Boys Over Flowers,' Lee Yoon Sung in 'City Hunter,' Kim Tan in 'The Heirs' (2013), and Lee Gon in 'The King: Eternal Monarch' (2020). Lee grew up in a wealthy family in Seoul and initially dreamed of becoming a professional soccer player. He was selected for a youth soccer team managed by former player Cha Bum-kun, but an injury in his first year of school ended his soccer career. In his second year of high school, he shifted focus and began selling cosmetics online. He later pursued a degree in Film and Arts at Konkuk University.

Lee Min Ho began his acting career by auditioning for roles and landing minor parts in various television series, though he didn’t initially capture much public attention. Early on, his agency gave him the stage name 'Lee Min,' as his birth name was considered too common. However, this name was later found to be difficult to search online due to its resemblance to the Korean word for 'immigrant' (imin), so he returned to using his birth name. In 2006, Lee’s acting career was put on hold for a year following a serious car accident while riding with fellow actor Jung Il-woo. Lee was severely injured and bedridden for several months. After recovering, he landed his first leading role in the drama 'Mackerel Run' in 2007, but the show was cut short after only eight episodes due to low viewership. In 2008, Lee continued to appear in various roles on television.

Song Joong Ki, born on September 19, 1985, is a well-known South Korean actor. He rose to fame through his role in the historical drama 'Sungkyunkwan Scandal' (2010) and as a regular cast member on the variety show 'Running Man.' Since then, he has starred in TV dramas like 'The Innocent Man' (2012), 'Descendants of the Sun' (2016), 'Arthdal Chronicles' (2019), and 'Vincenzo' (2021), as well as hit films such as 'A Werewolf Boy' (2012), 'Battles Without Honor' (2017), and 'Space Sweepers' (2021). Song Joong Ki was named Actor of the Year in 2017 by Gallup Korea. He also made his debut on Forbes Korea's list of the most powerful celebrities in South Korea, ranking 7th in 2013, 4th in 2017, and 8th in 2018. His success in international projects has solidified his status as a top Hallyu star and one of the highest-earning actors in Korea.

Song Joong Ki began his acting career in the film 'A Frozen Flower,' released in December 2008. The following year, he appeared in 'Five Senses of Eros,' a film with multiple segments, where he played a role in the segment 'Believe in the Moment.' He continued to take on supporting roles in notable dramas like 'Triple' and 'Will It Snow for Christmas?' From August 2009 to November 2010, he hosted the popular music program 'Music Bank.' In 2010, Song Joong Ki also starred in the medical drama 'OB & GY' and the animal film 'Hearty Paws 2.' His career took a major turn with the massively successful drama 'Descendants of the Sun,' where he starred alongside Song Hye-kyo as a military officer. The drama became a massive hit in Korea, with a peak viewership of 41.6%, and garnered 2.5 billion views across Asia on iQiyi. This project rejuvenated his career and helped him lead the Korean Wave, securing him top spots in popularity polls across Asia.

Lee Jong Suk, born on September 14, 1989, is a renowned South Korean actor and model. He made his debut in 2005 with a short film titled 'Sympathy.' Jong Suk soon gained attention through commercials for brands like CASS Beer Fresh, where he appeared alongside Kim Woo-bin, and New Asics with Ha Ji Won. He won the 'Best New Actor' award at the 2012 KBS Drama Awards for his role in 'School 2013.' In 2013, Lee Jong Suk ranked 5th in Gallup Korea's 'Rising Stars' survey, one of South Korea's prestigious entertainment awards.

Originally starting his career as a model, Lee Jong Suk quickly established himself as a talented actor and model, impressing audiences with his perfect physique and height. Born in 1989, he has proven his versatile abilities in both fields. From the very beginning of his acting career, Lee Jong Suk showcased his remarkable acting skills in hit dramas like 'I Hear Your Voice,' 'Doctor Stranger,' and 'Pinocchio.' Most recently, he captured fans' hearts with the drama 'W,' which kept his followers eagerly awaiting his return to the small screen after the success of 'Pinocchio.'

Joo Won, born on September 30, 1987, is a prominent South Korean actor known for his roles in dramas such as 'King of Bread,' 'The Prodigal Son,' 'Mask Hero,' 'White Angel,' and 'Genius Doctor.' Within just five years of entering the industry, Joo Won unexpectedly became a go-to star for a wide range of television dramas. His success, however, is no accident—it comes from years of hard work and dedication, culminating in impressive achievements that were well-earned.

Dubbed the “King of Ratings,” Joo Won made a significant impact with standout roles in series like 'Good Doctor' and 'Young Pal.' With his natural talent and friendly appearance, he excelled in portraying both heroic and complex characters. Yet, he didn’t limit himself to stereotypical roles—Joo Won took on challenging villainous roles in dramas such as 'King of Bread' and 'Tears in Heaven,' revealing new layers of his acting ability and showcasing his versatility to fans.

Kim Woo-bin, born on July 16, 1989, is a South Korean actor and model. He made his fashion debut in 2009, gracing the runways of Seoul Fashion Week and prêt-à-porter collections. Under the stage name Kim Woo Bin, he began acting in 2011, taking his first lead role in the mystery drama 'White Christmas' and the cable sitcom 'Vampire Idol.' His career took off with a role in the romantic comedy 'A Gentleman's Dignity' and later in the youth drama 'School 2013.' He then starred in the high-profile series 'The Inheritors' in 2013, written by Kim Eun-sook, further cementing his popularity. His first film role was in 'Friend 2,' the sequel to the 2001 box-office hit by Kwak Kyung-taek.

Kim Woo Bin also became a regular on the music show M! Countdown starting on August 15, 2013, and co-hosted the SBS Drama Awards 2013 on December 31 with Lee Hwi-jae and Lee Bo-young. Sharing the same birth year as his close friend Lee Jong Suk, the two are widely recognized as one of the most beloved duos in the Korean entertainment industry. With his unique, striking looks and impressive height, Kim Woo Bin captivates audiences wherever he goes. He rose to A-list status after starring in the hit drama 'The Heirs,' and his first lead role in the drama 'Uncontrollably Fond' received positive feedback from viewers, solidifying his fame.

Ji Chang-wook, born July 5, 1987, is a South Korean actor best known for his versatile acting skills. He began his career in musical theater before gaining widespread recognition for his role in the popular drama 'Smile Again' in 2011, which became one of the highest-rated dramas in Korea during the first half of that year, reaching a viewership rating of 41%. However, it was his portrayal of Emperor Ta-hwan in 'Empress Ki' that truly catapulted Ji Chang-wook into stardom, solidifying his position as an A-list actor in South Korea and across Asia, earning him numerous awards and critical acclaim.

His fame grew further with his role in the hit drama 'Healer,' where he became a beloved Hallyu star, especially adored by fans in Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and China. In 'The K2 - City of Illusions,' he established himself as a top action star in Korea. Ji Chang-wook continued to impress with his role as Noh Ji-wook in 'Suspicious Partner,' which won the hearts of viewers. He is currently one of the most influential actors in South Korea. On August 14, 2017, he enlisted for mandatory military service and served in Unit 03 in Cheorwon, Gangwon Province. After completing his basic training, he finished his two-year service on April 25, 2019.

Gong Yoo is a South Korean actor known for his striking looks, impressive height, and remarkable acting talent. From the early stages of his career, directors have kept an eye on him. Despite facing many ups and downs in his career, Gong Yoo has tirelessly worked to earn the recognition he enjoys today. With his outstanding and memorable performances, he has earned the affectionate nickname 'The Prince of Hallyu' from his fans.

His fame reached new heights with his role in the hit film 'Train to Busan.' The movie was not only a massive success in South Korea, grossing $62.2 million, but it also made waves internationally. Gong Yoo's flawless portrayal in the film helped him cement his status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. Today, he stands as one of the most influential figures in Korean showbiz.

Additionally, Gong Yoo has made guest appearances on the popular reality show 'Running Man' and frequently participates in major events and ceremonies. He has also hosted several television programs such as 'Music Camp' and 'Best Music.'

Kim Soo Hyun was born on February 16, 1988, and is a renowned South Korean actor. He began his acting career in 2007 with the sitcom 'Kimchi Cheese Smile.' Kim Soo Hyun is praised for his exceptional ability to fully immerse himself in his roles. Some of the significant milestones in his career include receiving the prestigious Baeksang Arts Award, where he became the youngest actor to win the award. In 2014, he made history as the first actor to receive the Most Popular Actor Award in both television and film at the Baeksang Awards. He also earned immense recognition with five Daesang (Grand Prize) awards.

Known as one of the most talented and handsome actors in South Korea, Kim Soo Hyun has captured hearts through hit dramas like 'Dream High' and 'Moon Embracing the Sun.' He made a lasting impact with his role as a teacher in the beloved drama 'You Who Came from the Stars,' which became a massive sensation across Asia in 2014. Kim Soo Hyun then returned to the screen with the character Baek Seung-Chan in 'The Producers,' a drama that, despite not achieving major success, still garnered him a great deal of love and support from his fans.

Hyun Bin made his acting debut in 2003 with the drama 'Bodyguard.' He soon gained attention for his roles in sitcom 'Nonstop 4' and the romantic comedy 'Ireland,' as well as starring in the sports drama 'Spin Kick.' However, it was his breakout role in the 2005 romantic comedy 'My Lovely Sam Soon' alongside Kim Sun-a that catapulted him to stardom. The series became a huge hit, achieving average ratings of over 37%, with the finale reaching 50.5%, earning Hyun Bin the Best Actor award at the MBC Drama Awards. Following this success, he starred in 'A Millionaire's First Love,' a teen drama adapted from an online novel, which also resonated with young audiences.

However, his next project, 'The Snow Queen,' did not meet expectations. Undeterred, Hyun Bin chose more grounded roles, such as in the critically acclaimed drama 'Worlds Within' in 2008, praised for its screenplay by Noh Hee-kyung. He also starred in the romantic film 'I Am Happy,' which was showcased at the 2008 Busan International Film Festival. In 2009, he received recognition for his portrayal in the gangster drama 'Friend, Our Legend,' a remake of the 2001 hit film. Hyun Bin’s career reached new heights in 2010 with the fantasy-romantic drama 'Secret Garden,' co-starring Ha Ji Won. The drama was a massive success, achieving a 30% viewership rating and sparking trends in fashion, music, and catchphrases. Hyun Bin's performance earned him recognition at both the SBS Drama Awards and the 47th Baeksang Arts Awards, and he contributed to the drama's OST with the hit song 'That Man,' which topped Korean music charts.

Jo In-seong, born July 28, 1981, in Seoul, South Korea, is a well-known model and actor. He first gained fame for his leading role in the 2004 SBS drama 'Something Happened in Bali.' He is also recognized for his performances in the films 'A Dirty Carnival' (2006) and 'A Frozen Flower' (2008). Raised in Cheonho-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, Jo began his career in 1998 as a model for Ziozia before transitioning to acting. His first role came in the MBC sitcom 'Nonstop 2.' He later graduated from Cheon-nam College with a major in Performing Arts and briefly attended Dong-gook University, though he had to leave due to his busy schedule.

His first leading television role was in the SBS drama 'Piano' in 2002, where he played the stepbrother of Go Soo. Jo’s popularity soared with his roles in 'Shoot for the Stars' and the film 'The Classic' alongside Son Ye-jin. In 2004, his role in 'Something Happened in Bali' earned him the Best Actor Award at the Baeksang Arts Awards and several other accolades. In 2005, he starred alongside Go Hyun-jung in 'Spring Days.' Jo continued to work with acclaimed director Yoo Ha in two of his films, 'A Dirty Carnival' and 'A Frozen Flower.' After finishing his contract with SidusHQ in February 2012, he joined IOK Company, where his close friend Go Hyun-jung also worked. In October 2012, Jo made his return to television alongside Song Hye-kyo in the drama 'That Winter, the Wind Blows.'