Choi Woo-shik is a critically acclaimed South Korean actor who skyrocketed to international fame with his performances in the Oscar-winning film Parasite and the zombie thriller Train to Busan. Known for his subtle charisma and emotional depth, Woo-shik has steadily built a versatile career that bridges mainstream cinema and indie projects, earning recognition both in South Korea and globally. With his boyish charm and impressive acting range, he is one of the most respected talents of his generation.

Born on March 26, 1990, in Seoul, South Korea, Choi Woo-shik spent much of his youth in Vancouver, Canada, where he moved with his family at the age of 10. Originally aspiring to become a filmmaker, Woo-shik studied at Simon Fraser University before deciding to pursue acting and returning to South Korea. His bicultural background has made him particularly appealing to international audiences, and he is fluent in both Korean and English.

Choi made his acting debut in 2011 with a role in the period drama The Duo. His breakout came with Set Me Free (2014), an indie drama where he played a troubled teenager. The film was a critical success and won him the Actor of the Year award at the Busan International Film Festival. However, his major rise to global fame came with his role as Ki-woo in Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite (2019), which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and Best Picture at the Oscars.

Choi Woo-shik continues to challenge himself with diverse roles, including the romantic youth drama Our Beloved Summer and action-thrillers like The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion. His grounded presence and emotional vulnerability on screen have made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike.

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Choi Woo-shik has maintained a clean public image with no major controversies to date. His low-key and professional demeanor has contributed to his respected reputation in the entertainment industry.

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Personal quote:

“I believe in showing emotions through silence more than words. That’s what makes acting powerful.”

Early Life and Career:

Choi Woo-shik’s journey into acting was as unexpected as it was inspiring. Growing up in Canada, he was initially more interested in directing than acting. But while studying film at Simon Fraser University, he realized his passion for performing. In 2011, he returned to South Korea and enrolled at Chung-Ang University, a well-known institution for aspiring entertainers.

He began auditioning and landed small TV roles before receiving critical praise for Set Me Free (2014), where he played a young man navigating abandonment and spiritual guilt. His portrayal won him several newcomer awards and made filmmakers take note. He steadily built his filmography with roles in Okja (2017), working again with director Bong Joon-ho.

In 2016, he appeared in Train to Busan, which gained cult status internationally. But it was his role as Ki-woo in Parasite that launched him onto the global stage. His performance as the cunning but naive tutor was both emotionally layered and socially symbolic. The film’s global acclaim, including four Oscars, brought him massive recognition.

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Since Parasite, Choi Woo-shik has balanced between global prestige and Korean storytelling. He starred in the Netflix romantic drama Our Beloved Summer (2021), reuniting with childhood friend Kim Da-mi. The show became a hit, especially among younger audiences.

In 2024, he appeared in Wonderland, a sci-fi fantasy film alongside Bae Suzy and Tang Wei. He continues to be a brand ambassador for several fashion and skincare brands, maintaining his down-to-earth yet stylish persona.

Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Choi Woo-shik

• He moved to Canada when he was 10 and still speaks fluent English.
• Despite his global success, he has never formally studied acting.
• His close circle of friends includes actors Park Seo-joon, BTS’s V, and Peakboy, forming the famous “Wooga Squad.”
• He was once mistaken for a college student while filming due to his youthful appearance.
• Choi originally wanted to become a filmmaker or director.
• He’s a huge fan of the NBA and often watches games late into the night.
• Choi is known for being humble and introverted, avoiding the spotlight off-camera.
• His ideal role is a deep, psychological thriller character—a contrast to his usual charming roles.
• He enjoys writing and journaling in his spare time.
• Despite being a fashion icon, he claims to be indifferent about shopping and styling.

Lee El is a South Korean actress who has carved out a niche for herself in the world of television and film with her captivating screen presence and versatile acting skills. Born Kim Ji-hyun, she is known professionally as Lee El, a stage name that reflects her powerful aura and enigmatic charm. While she was long regarded as one of the industry’s most underrated talents, the tide has turned, and Lee El has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in Korean entertainment.

She began her career with smaller roles in dramas and films but gradually drew attention with her performances in hit productions like Inside Men (2015), Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016), and Black (2017). Her portrayal of emotionally complex characters, especially her chilling yet magnetic role in Inside Men, gained her both critical and popular acclaim.

Lee El’s striking features and low-pitched, sultry voice make her instantly recognizable, but it’s her nuanced performances that have earned her admiration. Over the years, she’s moved from supporting roles to more central ones, notably as the enigmatic Jin Gab-sun in the sleeper hit My Liberation Notes (2022), where her performance was praised for its raw emotional depth.

Although she maintains a relatively private personal life, Lee El is admired for her bold personality, intelligence, and wit. She’s vocal about gender issues in the entertainment industry and is known for taking on roles that reflect her principles. Whether on screen or off, Lee El stands out for her elegance and authenticity—qualities that continue to resonate with fans across the globe.

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While Lee El has mostly kept a clean public image, she once made headlines for posting a playful photo of actor Kim Jae-wook sleeping, which stirred unnecessary dating rumors. She responded with humor and clarity, shutting down speculation quickly. She has also been outspoken on feminist issues, which has both earned her praise and stirred debate in conservative circles of Korean media.

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Personal quote:

“I want to act in roles that challenge perceptions—not just of characters, but of women.”

Early Life and Career

Lee El was born Kim Ji-hyun on June 26, 1982, in Seoul, South Korea. From a young age, she harbored dreams of performing, and she pursued them with tenacity. After studying performing arts at the prestigious Sungkyunkwan University, she entered the entertainment industry with small parts in television dramas and films.

Her breakthrough came with the noir political thriller Inside Men (2015), where she played a mistress embroiled in scandal. Despite limited screen time, her performance was unforgettable and earned her industry recognition. This led to roles in high-profile series like Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016), where she played the iconic Samshin grandmother, and the supernatural thriller Black (2017).

Lee El’s choice of roles often veers toward the unconventional. She shines in characters layered with emotional complexity, as seen in A Korean Odyssey (2017) and later in the 2022 hit My Liberation Notes, where her portrayal of a woman seeking peace and identity struck a chord with audiences. Her command of both television and film has established her as a reliable and compelling performer.

Current Life/Events

In recent years, Lee El has continued to push boundaries. In 2024, she starred in the critically acclaimed drama Loverly Runner, followed by a role in the upcoming dark comedy Blood Free, where she plays a high-powered executive navigating the bioengineering industry.

She’s also ventured into theater and scriptwriting, and rumors suggest she’s developing her own independent film project. Known for her integrity and careful role selection, Lee El has cemented her status as one of South Korea’s most respected actresses.

Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Lee El

• Lee El originally dreamed of becoming a singer before choosing acting.
• She adopted the name “Lee El” after consulting with a fortune teller, seeking a stronger stage presence.
• Her deep, husky voice is a signature trait—once considered a limitation, now her trademark.
• She starred in one of South Korea’s most risqué scenes in Inside Men, which made her a household name overnight.
• She is an advocate for gender equality in the Korean entertainment industry.
• Despite her fame, she lives a low-key lifestyle and is rarely seen at high-profile celebrity events.
• She is a devoted cat lover and frequently shares photos of her pets on Instagram.
• Lee El enjoys reading, especially Japanese and feminist literature.
• She once worked as a musical actress in small local productions before entering TV.
• Known for her sharp sense of humor, she often surprises fans with witty, philosophical Instagram captions.

Kim Ji-won is a powerhouse South Korean actress known for her versatility, emotional depth, and magnetic screen presence. From her early days as a supporting character to leading roles in some of Korea’s most acclaimed dramas, Kim Ji-won has steadily built a name for herself as one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry.

Born on October 19, 1992, in Seoul, South Korea, Kim Ji-won initially trained to become a singer and even worked as a background vocalist for Younha. However, fate had different plans. Her fresh-faced charm and innate acting talent caught the attention of casting directors, and she quickly made her debut in commercials, earning her the nickname “Oran C Girl” for a popular orange juice ad. She officially made her acting debut in the drama Mrs. Saigon in 2008.

Kim’s breakout role came with the high school drama The Heirs (2013), where she starred alongside top names like Lee Min-ho and Park Shin-hye. However, it was her role as the tough and endearing army surgeon Yoon Myung-joo in the international hit Descendants of the Sun (2016) that cemented her status as a top-tier actress. She followed this with acclaimed performances in Fight for My Way (2017), Arthdal Chronicles (2019), and most recently, Queen of Tears (2024), which became one of the highest-rated Korean cable dramas of all time.

Known for her refined elegance and ability to portray emotionally complex characters, Kim Ji-won continues to evolve as an artist, taking on roles that challenge both her and her audience. Despite her fame, she keeps a low public profile, adding an air of mystery to her already captivating persona.

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Kim Ji-won has maintained a remarkably clean public image throughout her career. She has avoided major controversies, focusing instead on her acting and personal growth. However, minor rumors about dating fellow actors have occasionally made headlines, though none have been confirmed.

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Personal quote:

“I want to be remembered as an actress who moves people’s hearts.”

Early Life and Career:

Kim Ji-won originally trained in music and even sang backup vocals for singer Younha before transitioning to acting. Her youthful beauty and charming aura quickly got her noticed in commercials, and her 2010 appearance in the sitcom High Kick: Revenge of the Short Legged marked her true acting breakout.

Although her early roles were modest, Kim was determined to prove herself. Her participation in The Heirs introduced her to a broader international audience, but it was Descendants of the Sun where she truly shined. Playing a military doctor, she stood toe-to-toe with A-list actors like Song Joong-ki and Jin Goo and held her own with grace and emotional power.

She continued to push herself in roles such as the ambitious Choi Ae-ra in Fight for My Way, the fierce warrior Tanya in Arthdal Chronicles, and most recently, the emotionally layered Hong Hae-in in Queen of Tears—a performance that won her widespread acclaim and multiple award nominations.

Current life/Events:

As of 2025, Kim Ji-won is enjoying the massive success of Queen of Tears, which became one of the highest-rated TVN dramas in history. She is currently reviewing new scripts and is rumored to be considering a major film project for the end of 2025. She remains one of the most bankable actresses in South Korea and is recognized for her quiet charisma and ability to completely transform into her characters.

Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Kim Ji-won

• Kim Ji-won once trained to be a K-pop idol and was almost in a girl group.
• She speaks fluent English and has studied abroad.
• Her nickname “Little Kim Tae-hee” came early in her career due to her resemblance to the top actress.
• She debuted in a commercial for a vitamin drink and instantly became known as the “Oran C Girl.”
• She is known for her extremely private lifestyle, rarely giving interviews or appearing on variety shows.
• Kim Ji-won is ambidextrous.
• Despite being shy in real life, she often plays bold, outspoken characters.
• Her dream vacation spot is the Swiss Alps, and she often posts serene mountain photos on her social media.
• She loves cats and owns a Scottish Fold.
• She’s known among crew members for her punctuality and polite demeanor on set.

Lee Jae-wook is a rising South Korean actor known for his magnetic screen presence, deep voice, and effortlessly charismatic performances. Emerging as one of the most versatile talents of his generation, Lee began his acting journey in 2018 and quickly became a fan favorite across K-dramas and films. He gained early recognition for his supporting role in the sci-fi drama Memories of the Alhambra and soon after soared in popularity through projects like Extraordinary You, Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, and the fantasy hit Alchemy of Souls. With his intense acting skills and classic model-like visuals, Lee Jae-wook has carved a unique space in the Korean entertainment industry.

Born in Seoul, South Korea, Lee initially pursued modeling and acting out of passion. He graduated from Chung-Ang University’s Department of Theater, one of Korea’s most prestigious performing arts programs. His refined acting skills were evident from the start and caught the attention of agencies and directors. In 2020, he took on his first lead role in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol, proving that he could command the screen with ease. His breakout came with Alchemy of Souls, where he played the complicated yet lovable Jang Uk—a role that propelled him into international stardom.

Lee Jae-wook’s ability to portray a wide range of emotions and genres, from romantic comedies to fantasy epics, has made him a versatile star. In addition to his acting, he’s known for his calm and intellectual personality, often contrasting with his emotionally dynamic characters. Off-screen, he has become a fashion icon, regularly gracing the covers of top magazines and fronting campaigns for luxury brands.

Let’s dive deeper into the life of this fast-rising Hallyu star.

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In 2024, Lee Jae-wook and AESPA’s Karina confirmed their romantic relationship, which initially sparked mixed reactions among netizens. Some fans expressed surprise, while many supported the couple, appreciating their openness in the usually private world of K-celebrity relationships. The couple briefly split in April 2024 due to scheduling conflicts but reconciled later that year, becoming one of the most followed celebrity pairs in South Korea.

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Personal quote:

“Acting lets me explore emotions I never knew I had.”

Early Life and Career:

Lee Jae-wook was born and raised in Seoul and developed a deep interest in film and storytelling at a young age. After enrolling at Chung-Ang University, he honed his craft in theater while working as a model. He made his acting debut in 2018 with Memories of the Alhambra, playing a mysterious hacker. Despite the limited screen time, his performance drew critical praise and opened up more doors.

In 2019, he gained mass attention for his role in Extraordinary You, portraying Baek Kyung, a brooding second lead who stirred hearts with his layered performance. This role earned him his first major acting award and cemented his place in the industry. He followed up with strong roles in Search: WWW and the romantic comedy Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol.

In 2022, he took on one of his most iconic roles yet in Alchemy of Souls, where he played the complex and emotional Jang Uk. The show became a pan-Asian sensation, further launching him into the international spotlight. His nuanced performance won over critics and audiences alike, proving that Lee Jae-wook is not just a pretty face—he’s a powerhouse actor.

Current Life/Events:

As of 2025, Lee Jae-wook continues to dominate both the small and big screens. He’s filming new dramas and is rumored to be in talks for a major Netflix original. His relationship with Karina of AESPA has kept him in the public eye, though he remains focused on his acting career. Known for his quiet, introspective personality, Lee has also become a frequent face at global fashion events and brand campaigns, balancing his time between Seoul and overseas appearances.

Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Lee Jae-wook

• He made his acting debut without prior experience in front of the camera and nailed his audition at first try.
• Lee Jae-wook initially aspired to be a screenwriter before pursuing acting.
• He’s a certified fashion enthusiast and often styles his own looks during shoots.
• He’s allergic to cats but adores them.
• He practiced piano for over 6 months for his role in Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol.
• He is fluent in both Korean and conversational English.
• Despite his confident screen presence, he’s known to be quite shy in real life.
• He was named “Best New Actor” at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards.
• He loves collecting vintage cameras and often photographs during travel.
• Lee is close friends with actor Song Kang, and the two often hang out off-screen.

Yoo Ah-in is one of South Korea’s most compelling and versatile actors, known for his intense performances, magnetic screen presence, and unapologetic individuality. Born Uhm Hong-sik, he has gained international acclaim through his work in both commercial hits and art-house cinema. From emotionally charged dramas like Secret Affair to political thrillers like The Throne and boundary-pushing roles in Burning (2018), his ability to inhabit complex characters has made him a standout star in Korean entertainment. Yoo is not only an actor but also an artist, fashion influencer, and cultural critic, celebrated for pushing boundaries in both his work and personal expression.

His fearless artistic choices have earned him major accolades, including Best Actor awards from the Blue Dragon Film Awards, Baeksang Arts Awards, and Korean Association of Film Critics. But beyond the spotlight, Yoo Ah-in is known for his enigmatic persona, deep love for art, and candid voice in social issues, often making headlines for his outspoken views. However, his recent career has also been clouded by controversy, adding new layers of public intrigue to his complex image.

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Yoo Ah-in has faced several controversies, the most recent and serious being his alleged illegal use of propofol and other controlled substances. In 2023, he was investigated by South Korean authorities and later indicted. His career took a temporary halt with projects such as The Match being postponed. This scandal shocked fans and industry insiders due to Yoo’s previously clean image and commitment to artistry.

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Personal Quote:

“I want to be someone who continues to question and confront the world, not just someone who fits into it.”

Early Life and Career:

Born in Daegu, South Korea, Yoo Ah-in grew up in a modest household and showed an early interest in art and performance. At just 17, he was scouted by a casting agent and moved to Seoul alone to pursue a career in entertainment. He made his acting debut in the teen drama Sharp in 2003 and quickly garnered attention for his good looks and charisma.

Though he started with roles in youth-centric dramas, Yoo broke away from the mold by choosing diverse, often risky roles in films such as Boys of Tomorrow and Antique. His breakthrough came in the form of the TV drama Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010), which earned him massive popularity across Asia.

In the 2010s, he solidified his status as a powerhouse actor with his work in The Throne (2015), Veteran (2015), and Lee Chang-dong’s Burning (2018), which was South Korea’s official submission for the Oscars and gained global acclaim.

Current life/Events:

Despite facing legal controversies, Yoo Ah-in remains one of Korea’s most influential cultural figures. He starred in Hellbound (2021), a Netflix hit that introduced him to a wider global audience. His postponed projects like The Match and Goodbye Earth are still anticipated by fans and critics alike. He continues to be active in the art scene through his studio “Studio Concrete,” promoting emerging artists and social discussions.

Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser-known facts about Yoo Ah-in

• His stage name “Ah-in” is derived from the German word “ein,” meaning “one” or “unique.”
• He owns an art collective called “Studio Concrete,” which merges art, fashion, and social commentary.
• Yoo is one of the few Korean male celebrities to openly challenge traditional masculinity norms.
• He’s a passionate art collector and once curated an exhibition himself.
• Yoo is known for writing thoughtful essays and social media posts critiquing politics, celebrity culture, and society.
• He has collaborated with luxury brands like Cartier and Balenciaga.
• Despite being a fashion icon, he often shops at thrift stores.
• He’s never publicly confirmed a relationship, maintaining an air of mystery around his dating life.
• Yoo’s role in Burning earned him praise from international critics, including in The New York Times.
• He once played the youngest king in Korean history (Jang Ok-jung, Living by Love) and received high praise for his regal yet vulnerable performance.