In a recent survey conducted by Gallup Korea to celebrate their 50th anniversary, Kim Soo Hyun has been crowned South Korea’s most beloved actor! This prestigious title showcases his immense popularity and enduring impact on the Korean entertainment scene.
Top Stars Revealed: A Mix of Experience and Rising Talent
The survey, titled “50 Things Koreans Like,” polled over 1,700 individuals aged 13 and above across South Korea (excluding Jeju Island). The results deliver a fascinating glimpse into the hearts of Korean audiences, highlighting a captivating blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars who have captivated viewers with their exceptional talent.
Kim Soo Hyun: A Versatile Powerhouse Takes the Top Spot
Securing a convincing 6.4% of the votes, Kim Soo Hyun reigns supreme. This achievement is a testament to his exceptional acting prowess, which shines brightly across both dramas and films. Kim Soo Hyun rose to prominence as a leading Hallyu star with his iconic roles in the fantasy drama “My Love from the Star” and the variety show-inspired drama “The Producers.”
His phenomenal talent has been recognized with a remarkable three Daesang (Grand Prize) awards. Most recently, his performance in the K-drama “Queen of Tears” further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor who effortlessly embodies a wide range of characters.
Namkoong Min and Kim Ji Won: Tied for Second with Compelling Performances
Following closely behind Kim Soo Hyun in a tie for second place are Namkoong Min and Kim Ji Won, each garnering 2.9% of the votes. Namkoong Min is celebrated for his captivating portrayals, expertly switching between hero and villain with remarkable finesse. His career trajectory boasts a prominent role in the neo-noir film “A Dirty Carnival” in 2006, and a string of consistently noteworthy performances since then. A standout achievement includes his portrayal in the drama “Hot Stove League,” which not only earned him the Grand Prize at the 2020 SBS Drama Awards but also marked his third Best Actor nomination at the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards.
Kim Ji Won, Namkoong Min’s co-star in “Queen of Tears,” shares the second-place position. Renowned for her heartfelt and compelling performances, she has captivated audiences in popular K-dramas like “Fight for My Way.” Originally trained in singing, dancing, and acting, Kim Ji Won ultimately chose to focus on acting, a decision that has undoubtedly paid off. A unique tidbit from her early career: she lent her background vocals to singer Younha, even playing keyboard and appearing in Younha’s music video “Gossip Boy.”
Rounding Out the Top 10: A Diverse Spectrum of Talent
Following the top three are a captivating mix of actors who have each left their mark on Korean entertainment:
- ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo (2.7%): This rising star is rapidly gaining popularity thanks to his striking visuals and burgeoning acting skills, particularly among younger demographics. Beyond his role as a member of the boy band ASTRO, Cha Eun Woo has garnered acclaim for his portrayals in “True Beauty” and more recently, “Wonderful World.”
- Kim Nam Joo (2.7%): A seasoned actress celebrated for her exceptional ability to captivate audiences across various genres. Her powerful performance as a grieving mother alongside Cha Eun Woo in “Wonderful World” exemplifies her captivating screen presence.
- Choi Soo Jong (2.5%): A beloved figure with an enduring career, Choi Soo Jong has graced screens with memorable roles since his debut in 1987 with the TV soap opera “Love Tree.” His versatility spans movies, television series, and even hosting award shows.
The remaining spots in the top ten are secured by:
- Song Joong Ki (2.3%) – Song Joong Ki is Renowned for his versatility and charm.
- Choi Bool Am (2.2%) – A highly respected actor with an extensive career.
- Go Doo Shim (2.0%) – A veteran actress celebrated for her powerful emotional performances.
- Kim Go Eun (1.8%) – Kim Go Eun is Cherished for her relatable and well-done portrayals on both film and television.
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