When we talk about K-drama icons, one name that instantly comes to mind is Kim Soo-hyun.

His signature "eye smile" and charming presence have made him a beloved figure, but there's so much more to him than just good looks.

As one of the most versatile actors of our time, he has continuously delivered outstanding performances, whether portraying a Crown Prince or a mysterious alien stranded on Earth for 400 years.

Acting Talent Runs in the Family

Kim Soo-hyun's passion for entertainment didn't come from nowhere—it runs in his blood. His father, Kim Chung-hoon, was the lead singer of the 80s underground rock band Seven Dolphins, which gained immense popularity during its peak. The band was well-paid, with performance fees reaching KRW 5 million per show.

Kim's half-sister, Kim Ju-na, followed a musical path as well. She gained recognition through the first season of Produce 101 and has contributed her voice to several K-drama OSTs, such as High Society and Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth. In 2021, she even launched a fashion store in Seoul called N.68.

His Mother's Influence Led Him to Acting

Kim was once a shy and introverted child, but his mother saw his potential and encouraged him to take acting classes. His first major role was in a stage adaptation of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream", where he played Puck. The experience was life-changing, making him realize that he could truly transform into different characters on stage.

With newfound confidence, Kim made his television debut in 2007 with the sitcom Kimchi Cheese Smile, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career.

His Best Performances That Won Hearts

Kim Soo-hyun's career skyrocketed in 2011 with the teen drama Dream High. Despite being surrounded by K-pop idols, he trained in singing and dancing for months at JYP Entertainment to perfect his performance. His song "Dreaming", part of the drama's OST, became a fan favorite.

His breakthrough came in 2012 when he starred in Moon Embracing the Sun, a historical drama that gained massive popularity across Asia. His performance as Lee Hwon, the Crown Prince of Joseon, won him the Best New Actor - Television Award at the 48th Baeksang Arts Awards.

His performance alongside Jun Ji-hyun propelled him to global fame, and his OST contributions, "In Front of Your House" and "Promise", became instant hits. He was with the Daesang ("Grand Prize") at the 7th Korea Drama Awards and the Most Popular Actor - Television at the 50th Baeksang Arts Awards.

Other must-watch dramas starring Kim include Secretly, Greatly (2013), The Producers (2015), It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), One Ordinary Day (2021), and Queen of Tears (2024). His latest project, Queen of Tears, has become the second most-watched tvN K-drama, following the success of Crash Landing on You (2019).

A Global Icon in the Advertising World

Kim Soo-hyun is not just a drama superstar—he is also a highly sought-after brand ambassador. From food to electronics, fashion, and even airlines, his face has appeared in more than 30 local and international advertisements, including several aired in China and other Asian countries.

In 2021, he became the brand ambassador for Bench, a well-known retail company in the Philippines. His presence in global marketing campaigns has only solidified his status as one of the most influential Hallyu stars.

The Future of Kim Soo-hyun

With his unparalleled acting skills, versatile roles, and global appeal, Kim Soo-hyun continues to reign as one of the most iconic figures in K-drama history. Whether on the small screen or in blockbuster endorsements, we can't wait to see what he does next!