As Korean cinema continues to evolve and appeal to global audiences, these rising stars are at the forefront of a new era of storytelling and are undoubtedly ones to watch. By captivating audiences with its remarkable storytelling, innovative cinematography and exceptional performances, Korean cinema has taken the world by storm. As the Hallyu wave continues to spread around the world, a new generation of talented actors are coming to the fore, ready to carry the torch into the future.
These new stars are not only making waves in their home countries, but are also gaining international recognition thanks to their versatility and charisma. We invite you to discover exclusively these new faces who are redefining Korean cinema and are ready to become essential names.
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Kim Tae-ri: The all-rounder
Leading this new wave is Kim Tae-ri, whose meteoric rise to stardom began with her critically well-received debut in Park Chan-wook’s The Handmaiden (2016). It is thanks to her ability to move from one period to another and from one genre to another that Kim has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. Between her role as a pickpocket in 1930s Korea and that of a determined female pilot in Space Sweepers (2021), which also features iconic K-entertainment figure Song Joong-ki, she continues to push back limits and surpassing oneself with each new project.
By starring in the K-drama Mr. Sunshine on tvN, she further cemented her status as a top talent, earning her many accolades and awards. Her upcoming projects, both in cinema and on television, make her a character to follow in the years to come.
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Choi Woo-shik: the ordinary man with an extraordinary record
It was with his role in Parasite (2019), a major international and award-winning success, that Choi Woo-shik broke through and became known around the world. Choi’s talent has been on display for years, however, with notable performances in films like Train to Busan (2016) and the adorable Okja (2017). What sets him apart is his ability to portray ordinary characters with depth and nuance, making them relatable and memorable.
His versatility was on display in his recent performance in the romantic comedy Our Beloved Summer (2021), where he proved he could play both dramatic and light-hearted roles with equal aplomb. As he continued to accept a variety of projects, Choi quickly became one of Korea’s most sought-after leading actors.
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Park So-dam: the independent film star who became a global star
Going from independent film favorite to international star, Park So-dam’s journey is a testament to her raw talent. Sure, she became a global star thanks to her role in Parasite (2019), where she played the cunning Ki-jung, but Park had already made waves in the Korean film industry thanks to her powerful performances in independent films such as The Priests (2015) and The Silenced (2015).
She has become a favorite of directors thanks to her ability to give depth and complexity to her characters, regardless of the size of the role. In her recent projects, including the K-drama Record of Youth (2020), she continues to showcase her range and establish herself as one of the most promising young Korean actresses.
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Ahn Hyo-seop: The romantic main character with dramatic flair
Having started his career in the idol industry, Ahn Hyo-seop quickly proved himself to be a serious actor with considerable range. His success was revealed in the popular K-drama Dr. Romantic 2 (2020), where he demonstrated his ability to master both medical jargon and emotional scenes with ease.
With his charm and good looks, he naturally established himself in the first romantic roles, such as in the hit series Business Proposal (2022). Her recent role in the thriller Lovers of the Red Sky (2021), however, highlighted her ability to play more dramatic and complex characters. With his career on the rise, Ahn is poised to become one of Korea’s leading actors, both on television and in film.
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Kim Da-mi: The power of intensity
Kim Da-mi made a splash in the action film The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018), where her intense portrayal of a genetically enhanced teenager with superhuman abilities amazed audiences and critics. What sets her apart from her peers is her ability to convey complex emotions using subtle facial expressions and body language.
Kim’s versatility was further demonstrated by her later roles in K-dramas like Itaewon Class (2020) and Our Beloved Summer (2021), which allowed her to show her softer side while maintaining her intensity, making her its specificity. By accepting challenging roles, Kim is quickly establishing herself as one of the most exciting young actresses in Korean cinema.
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Lee Do-hyun: The emotion charger
Although Lee Do-hyun is relatively new to the scene, he has already made a significant impact with his emotionally charged performances. Her breakout role in the critically acclaimed drama 18 Again (2020) demonstrated her ability to embody both the exuberance of youth and the introspection of maturity.
He went on to prove himself in Sweet Home (2020), Youth of May (2021) and the thrilling The Glory (2022), cementing his reputation as an actor capable of playing complex and emotionally demanding roles. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising young Korean actors, thanks to his childish charm and his wide range of emotions.
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Wi Ha-joon: The versatile one who steals the show
Known for his dedication to his craft, Korean actor and model Wi Ha-joon quickly rose to prominence thanks to his charismatic on-screen presence, earning national and international acclaim.
Although Wi gained worldwide attention with his role in the global phenomenon, 2021’s gripping dystopian horror “Squid Game,” he has continued to build an impressive career in Korean cinema. His performances in films like Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum (2018) and Midnight (2021) also demonstrate his versatility in all genres, whether horror or thriller.
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Jung Ho-yeon: The model turned actress sensation
Jung Ho-yeon’s seamless transition from fashion runways as an international model to a career as an actress on the big screen has been nothing short of spectacular. Although this dual-talented star’s future is incredibly bright in the modeling field, she has decided to pursue her acting career.
It was while first starring in 2021’s Squid Game that the once-insecure comedian earned critical acclaim and received a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) award, making her one of the most exciting new talents in Korean entertainment. As she continues to explore new roles and opportunities, Jung, with her raw emotional depth and formidable screen presence, is poised to become an enduring and influential figure in both the fashion and entertainment industries. entertainment.
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Lee Jae-wook: The romantic lead on the rise
It is through his compelling performances and charismatic presence that Lee Jae-wook made a leap forward in the Korean entertainment industry. He quickly became recognized as one of the most sought-after actors for his versatility and ability to give depth to his characters.
It was in a small role in the sci-fi thriller Memories of the Alhambra that he made his acting debut in 2018, gaining attention and setting the stage for his later roles. While starring in K-dramas like Extraordinary You (2019) and Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol (2020), he demonstrated his charm and ability to carry romantic lead roles, while his role in Alchemy of Souls (2022 ) has demonstrated the ability to interpret more complex, fantasy-driven narratives.
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Go Min-si: The emergence of a dramatic force
Having always built her career through memorable supporting roles, Korean actress and director Go Min-si made her film debut in the web K-drama 72 Seconds (2016), which gained her initial attention. However, she broke through with the dark and captivating film The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018), which was critically acclaimed.
Go’s ability to portray intense and complex characters, as well as convey vulnerability and strength, has made her a character not to be missed, both in film and television. His performance in the apocalyptic horror series Sweet Home (2020), alongside the big Korean star Song Kang, really revealed his potential.
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Jeon Yeo-been: The critically acclaimed newcomer
Known for her remarkable ability to immerse herself in diverse roles, Jeon Yeo-been has garnered the favor of critics and a community of devoted fans. Having started an acting career with small roles in independent films and television series, she broke through with the film After My Death (2017).
His performance in Night in Paradise (2020) once again established him as a formidable talent. Her starring role in the popular K-drama Vincenzo (2021) propelled her to the status of a rising star, capable of playing both intense dramatic scenes and lighter comedic moments with equal skill.
So, which of these rising K-drama stars do you prefer?