Kim Soo-hyun, the leading star behind some of the most celebrated dramas, is renowned for his ability to deliver outstanding performances with each project. What makes him so captivating?
Here’s a closer look at five of his most charming traits and six must-watch dramas that define his illustrious career.
The Ultimate Korean Drama Heartthrob
Kim Soo-hyun shot to fame with Love from the Star, cementing his status as a top-tier actor. His post-military comeback drama, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay, further solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile performers in the industry. With his recent role in the heartwarming romance series Queen of Tears, Kim has once again proven his star power, earning accolades across Asia. Beyond his striking looks, it’s his multifaceted personality and impeccable script selection that keep him at the forefront of Korean entertainment.
Five Endearing Qualities
Adorably Playful Personality
While his portrayal of the aloof and stoic "Do Min-joon" in Love from the Star is unforgettable, Kim Soo-hyun is far from cold in real life. Known for his quirky humor and playful energy, he’s the life of any set. Actress Gong Hyo-jin once shared that Kim’s lively antics make his presence impossible to ignore. His goofy charm shone through during his appearance on Running Man, where his innocent clumsiness earned him the nickname "the handsome fool."
Bowling Enthusiast
Kim’s bowling skills are nothing short of impressive. He once showcased his talent on Infinite Challenge, effortlessly scoring strikes and captivating audiences with his cool demeanor. For Kim, bowling is more than a hobby—it’s a way to channel focus, a quality that translates into his disciplined approach to acting. His passion even led him to seriously compete for a spot as a professional bowler in 2016.
A Gifted Singer
Kim’s rich, soulful voice adds another layer to his multifaceted talent. From singing drama OSTs like The Moon Embracing the Sun to Dream High and Love from the Star, his musical abilities have charmed fans worldwide. Co-stars have also revealed that Kim frequently hums tunes during breaks, adding a touch of warmth to the set.
Romantic Ideal
Kim Soo-hyun’s almost scandal-free personal life is a testament to his professionalism. He has openly shared his admiration for British actress Kaya Scodelario, naming her as his ideal type. He also revealed his preference for vibrant, cheerful personalities like "Cheon Song-yi" from Love from the Star. While lightheartedly mentioning nine past relationships, he expressed a wish to settle down by the age of 41.
A Master of Script Selection
Kim has an uncanny ability to choose projects that resonate with audiences. From winning the Grand Prize with The Moon Embracing the Sun to portraying a wide array of characters in films like Secretly, Greatly and dramas such as Producer, his choices reflect his versatility and artistic vision.
Six Must-Watch Performances
1. Queen of Tears (2024) – Baek Hyun-woo
In this comedic yet touching romance, Kim Soo-hyun plays Baek Hyun-woo, a lawyer married into a wealthy family. Despite enduring hardships in the relationship, he discovers newfound strength when his wife reveals a terminal illness. The drama explores themes of love and reconciliation, offering a heartfelt performance that’s not to be missed.
2. One Ordinary Day (2021) – Kim Hyun-soo
This gripping remake of BBC’s Criminal Justice pairs Kim Soo-hyun with Cha Seung-won in a legal thriller. Playing a university student wrongfully accused, Kim delivers a raw and vulnerable performance, unraveling the complexities of a flawed justice system.
3. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020) – Moon Gang-tae
Marking his post-military return, this unique drama became an instant hit. Kim portrays Moon Gang-tae, a caregiver entangled in an emotional journey of healing with an eccentric writer. His nuanced portrayal struck a chord with fans, showcasing his ability to navigate complex emotions.
4. Producer (2015) – Baek Seung-chan
Starring alongside IU, Cha Tae-hyun, and Gong Hyo-jin, Kim plays an awkward rookie producer in this slice-of-life drama. His comedic timing and endearing portrayal of Baek Seung-chan earned him critical acclaim and a Grand Prize at the KBS Drama Awards.
5. Secretly, Greatly (2013) – Won Ryu-hwan/Dong-gu
This adaptation of a webtoon showcases Kim as a North Korean spy posing as a bumbling fool in a South Korean neighborhood. His ability to seamlessly shift between humor and drama won him major accolades, cementing this role as one of his career highlights.
6. Love from the Star (2013) – Do Min-joon
Arguably his most iconic role, Kim plays an alien who has lived on Earth for 400 years. His romantic chemistry with Jun Ji-hyun and his portrayal of the cool yet tender Do Min-joon made this drama a cultural phenomenon, solidifying his status as a global star.
An Actor Who Captivates Hearts
From his undeniable charisma to his wide-ranging talents, Kim Soo-hyun continues to dominate the Korean entertainment industry. Whether it’s through his playful off-screen personality or his transformative performances, he remains a beloved figure to fans worldwide. With each project, Kim redefines what it means to be a leading man, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating his next move.
