Kim Soo Hyun is a highly acclaimed and one of the highest-paid South Korean actors. Born on February 16, 1988, he has established himself as a leading figure in the Korean entertainment industry through his exceptional talent and captivating performances in both television dramas and films.
Early Career and Breakthrough: Kim Soo Hyun began his acting career in the late 2000s, gaining initial recognition in television dramas such as “Kimchi Cheese Smile” (2007) and “Jungle Fish” (2008). However, his breakthrough role came in 2011 with the teen musical drama “Dream High,” where he played a talented country boy who dreams of becoming a pop star. This role not only showcased his acting abilities but also his singing talent.
Rising Stardom: His popularity soared in 2012 with the historical fantasy drama “Moon Embracing the Sun,” where he portrayed the young King Lee Hwon. The drama was a massive success, achieving “national drama” status and solidifying Kim Soo Hyun’s position as a top actor.
International Fame: Kim Soo Hyun achieved widespread international fame with the romantic fantasy drama “My Love from the Star” (2013-2014). He played Do Min Joon, an alien who has lived on Earth for centuries and falls in love with a famous actress. The drama was a pan-Asian hit, making him a highly sought-after star across the continent.
Versatile Roles and Critical Acclaim: Throughout his career, Kim Soo Hyun has taken on diverse roles, proving his versatility as an actor. He has starred in dramas such as “The Producers” (2015), “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” (2020), and “One Ordinary Day” (2021), receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards for his performances. He has also starred in successful films like “The Thieves” (2012) and “Secretly, Greatly” (2013).
Recent Work: In 2024, he starred in the highly successful drama “Queen of Tears,” which became the highest-rated tvN series of all time, surpassing “Crash Landing on You.” He is also set to star in the upcoming black comedy series “Knock Off” on Disney+ in 2025.
Brand Endorsements and Net Worth: Kim Soo Hyun is also known as the “King of Commercials” due to his numerous lucrative brand endorsements with top international and local brands. His estimated net worth is around $117 million as of early 2025, making him one of the wealthiest actors in South Korea.
Recent Controversy: Recently, Kim Soo Hyun has been embroiled in controversy following allegations of a past relationship with the late actress Kim Sae Ron, including claims that the relationship began when she was a minor. This has led to some brands reconsidering their partnerships with him. However, he has denied the underage relationship claims and is taking legal action against those spreading false information.
Despite the recent controversy, Kim Soo Hyun remains a highly talented and popular actor with a strong fanbase. His impressive body of work and significant contributions to the Korean entertainment industry have solidified his status as a major star