Basic Information:
Name: Kim Soo-hyun (김수현)
Date of Birth: February 16, 1988
Nationality: South Korean
Profession: Actor
Social media: Instagram:
Biography:
Kim Soo-hyun is a prominent South Korean actor recognized for his versatility and wide-ranging performances in both television dramas and films. Born in Seoul, South Korea, he was initially a shy and introverted child. His mother encouraged him to explore acting classes to overcome his reserved nature. This led him to discover a passion for performance, and he actively participated in school plays. He honed his skills at Chung-Ang University, studying Theater and Film.
Kim's career began with minor roles, including a part in the 2007 sitcom "Kimchi Cheese Smile". He gained early recognition in 2008 for his lead role in the youth drama "Jungle Fish," which tackled sensitive issues of academic pressure. This early success paved the way for his breakthrough role in the 2011 series Dream High, where he played a talented country boy, launching him into stardom.
Major career highlights include his portrayal of King Lee Hwon in the historical drama Moon Embracing the Sun (2012), which garnered national acclaim, and his role as an alien in the widely popular My Love from the Star (2013-2014). These roles cemented his status as a leading actor in South Korea and across Asia. He also achieved success in films, starring in The Thieves (2012) and Secretly, Greatly (2013), both of which were box office hits.
After completing his mandatory military service from 2017 to 2019, Kim Soo-hyun made a comeback with notable roles in It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), "ne Ordinary Day" (2021), and "Queen of Tears" (2024).
In March 2025, his career faced controversy due to allegations involving the late actress Kim Sae-ron, leading to some backlash.
Career Timeline:
2007: Television debut in "Kimchi Cheese Smile"
2008: Lead role in "Jungle Fish."
2011: Breakthrough role in "Dream High"
2012: Starred in "Moon Embracing the Sun" and the film "The Thieves"
2013-2014: Starred in "My Love from the Star."
2017-2019: Mandatory military service.
2020: Returns to acting in "It's Okay to Not Be Okay."
2021: Starred in "One Ordinary Day."
2024: Starred in "Queen of Tears"
Achievements:
Awards & Recognition: Kim Soo-hyun has received numerous awards, including multiple Baeksang Arts Awards (including Best Actor for "Moon Embracing the Sun"), Grand Bell Awards, and Korea Drama Awards. He has also been featured in Forbes' Power Celebrity 40 and 30 Under 30 Asia lists.
Records/Stats: He is one of the highest-paid actors in South Korea. His dramas and films have achieved both critical and commercial success, often topping ratings and box office charts.
Key Quotes / Catchphrases:
"Sin and the sinner both deserve punishment."
"I try to act plainly because I want to look pure."
