K-dramas and Korean movies are taking over Netflix in 2025, and these top Korean actors are the heart of the Hallyu wave. From heart-melting romances to gritty thrillers, they’re stealing the show with their talent and charm. Curious who’s leading the pack? Here’s our list of the top 10 Korean actors you need to know this year, with a sprinkle of cultural insights to explain why they’re so loved—both in Korea and abroad!
Rising Stars of K-Drama
K-dramas are known for their emotional depth and binge-worthy plots, and these actors are the fresh faces lighting up screens in 2025. Unlike fast-paced U.S. series, Korean dramas focus on heart-tugging moments, making these stars global favorites.
- Kim Hye-yoon
Why She Shines: Kim Hye-yoon topped the June 2025 Star Ranking for actresses, thanks to her role in Lovely Runner (tvN, 2024). Her lovable charm and raw emotional acting have fans swooning worldwide.
Example: In Lovely Runner, she plays a fan who time-travels to save her idol, blending comedy and heartbreak perfectly.
Cultural Note: In Korea, actors like Kim often gain fame through youth-oriented dramas, unlike Hollywood’s focus on blockbuster roles. Her relatable vibe resonates with Gen Z fans globally.
Watch This: Check out Lovely Runner on Netflix to see her magic! - Byeon Woo-seok
Why He Shines: Byeon Woo-seok became a global heartthrob after Lovely Runner, topping fan votes in 2025. His tall frame and warm smile make him a K-drama staple.
Example: As a K-pop idol in Lovely Runner, he nails both romantic and tragic scenes, earning tears and cheers.
Cultural Note: Korean actors often play “perfect boyfriends,” a trope less common in Western shows where flawed heroes dominate.
Watch This: Binge Lovely Runner for his swoon-worthy moments! - Park Eun-bin
Why She Shines: Park Eun-bin’s role in Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022, Netflix) made her a global icon, and her 2025 projects keep her in the spotlight.
Example: Her portrayal of an autistic lawyer was both heartwarming and groundbreaking, winning international awards.
Cultural Note: Korean dramas often tackle social issues like disability with sensitivity, unlike many Western shows’ focus on action.
Watch This: Stream Extraordinary Attorney Woo on Netflix for her brilliance!
Movie Powerhouses
Korean movies are famous for their gripping stories and social commentary, and these actors dominate the big screen. Unlike Hollywood’s action-heavy blockbusters, Korean films blend raw emotion with grit, and these stars prove it.
- Choi Min-sik
Why He Shines: Choi Min-sik, a legend, topped Gallup Korea’s 2024 movie actor poll. His intense roles in Oldboy and I Saw the Devil are global classics.
Example: In Oldboy (2003), his raw, unhinged performance shocked audiences, making it a cult favorite in the West.
Cultural Note: Korean actors like Choi often take on darker, complex roles, unlike Hollywood’s preference for clear-cut heroes.
Watch This: Watch Oldboy to feel his intensity! - Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee)
Why He Shines: Ma Dong-seok’s action-packed roles in Train to Busan and The Outlaws make him Korea’s answer to Dwayne Johnson.
Example: In Train to Busan (2016), he’s a tough dad with a heart of gold, stealing scenes in the zombie thriller.
Cultural Note: Korea loves “tough but soft” characters, a contrast to Hollywood’s stoic action stars.
Watch This: Stream Train to Busan on Netflix for his epic fights! - Song Kang-ho
Why He Shines: Song Kang-ho, a Parasite (2019) star, ranked third in Gallup Korea’s 2024 poll. His versatility shines in every role.
Example: In Parasite, he plays a cunning yet relatable father, earning global praise.
Cultural Note: Korean films often mix humor and tragedy, unlike Western films that lean into one genre.
Watch This: Revisit Parasite for his masterful acting!
Global Hallyu Icons
Thanks to Netflix and the Hallyu wave, these actors are household names worldwide. They juggle dramas, movies, and global ads, a multitasking feat rare in Western entertainment.
- Song Hye-kyo
Why She Shines: Song Hye-kyo’s The Glory (2023, Netflix) cemented her as a global star. A first-generation Hallyu icon, she’s still a fan favorite.
Example: Her chilling role as a revenge-driven woman in The Glory gripped audiences worldwide.
Cultural Note: Korean actresses often play strong, emotional leads, unlike Western roles that may prioritize glamour.
Watch This: Binge The Glory on Netflix to see her power! - Lee Jung-jae
Why He Shines: Squid Game (2021, Netflix) made Lee Jung-jae a global name, and Squid Game 2 (2025) keeps him trending.
Example: As Seong Gi-hun, he portrays desperation and hope, resonating with fans everywhere.
Cultural Note: Korean actors often star in high-stakes thrillers, unlike Hollywood’s focus on superhero epics.
Watch This: Catch Squid Game for his gripping performance! - Shin Hye-sun
Why She Shines: Shin Hye-sun topped 2024 brand reputation rankings with her versatile roles in Welcome to Samdal-ri.
Example: Her natural, heartfelt acting in Welcome to Samdal-ri (2023) won over global viewers.
Cultural Note: Korean actresses like Shin excel in “slice-of-life” stories, less common in Western TV’s plot-heavy format.
Watch This: Stream Welcome to Samdal-ri on Netflix! - YoonA
Why She Shines: As a Girls’ Generation member and actress, YoonA balances idol and acting careers, a rare feat. Her role in King the Land (2023) was a hit.
Example: In King the Land, her bubbly charm made her a fan favorite.
Cultural Note: Korea’s idol-actors, unlike Western pop stars, often seamlessly transition to acting.
Watch This: Check out King the Land for her infectious energy!
Why These Actors Rule 2025
These 10 stars dominate K-dramas and Korean movies because they blend talent, charisma, and cultural impact. In Korea, actors often rise through fan-driven rankings and brand reputation, unlike Hollywood’s focus on box-office numbers. Their global appeal, fueled by Netflix and Hallyu, makes 2025 their year to shine. Want to dive deeper? Follow them on Instagram or binge their latest projects!
Who’s your favorite Korean actor in 2025? Drop their name in the comments and tell us why you love them!