Korean actors have achieved unprecedented popularity worldwide, fueled by the ever-expanding audience for K-dramas. This surge in global viewership has elevated the status and earning potential of numerous K-drama stars, positioning them as some of the highest-paid actors in the industry.
The immense popularity of Korean dramas is exemplified by hits like Netflix’s “Squid Game”, which shattered streaming records and captivated millions of viewers worldwide. This widespread appeal has propelled K-drama actors into the spotlight. Thus, solidifying their position as major players in the entertainment industry, with many achieving success both on television and in blockbuster films.
Let’s take a look at these top 10 highest-paid Korean actors:
1. Kim Soo-Hyun (김수현)
Kim Soo-hyun, a two-time Grand Bell Awards winner, rose to fame with “Kimchi Cheese Smile” in 2007. With hits like “Dream High” and “My Love from the Star,” and successful films including “The Thieves,” he’s a big name in Korean dramas. In 2021, he earned USD423,000 (RM2,018,979) per episode for “One Ordinary Day,” making him K-drama’s top earner. Post-military service, he charmed in “It’s Okay To Not Be Okay,” reportedly earning USD155,000 (RM739,815) per episode.
2. Lee Jung-Jae (이정재)
Lee Jung-Jae rose to global fame in 2021 with “Squid Game”, continuing to act in shows like “Star Wars’ The Acolyte.” Winning Best Actor at prestigious awards like the Critics Choice, Screen Actors Guild, and Primetime Emmy; he made history as the first Korean to do so.
With a hefty paycheck of USD 248,000 (RM1,183,704) per episode for “Squid Game,” he’s returning for its highly anticipated second season. The actor’s illustrious three-decade career includes hits like “Il Mare,” “New World,” and “Deliver Us from Evil,” with a venture into directing in 2022’s “Hunt” alongside Jung Woo-sung (정우성). As his fame continues to rise, he solidifies his position as one of K-drama’s highest-paid stars in 2024.
3. Song Joong-ki (송중기)
In just over a decade, this South Korean heartthrob has captured global K-drama fans’ hearts, skyrocketing to fame with “Descendants of the Sun” (2016). Recent hits like “Vincenzo” (2021) and “Space Sweepers” (2021) showcase his talent, with earnings of USD170,000 (RM811,410) per episode boosting his status as one of K-drama’s top earners. With notable roles in other hits and ongoing success, Song Joong-ki’s star continues to shine brightly in the entertainment world.
4. Hyun Bin (현빈)
Hyun Bin is also one of the top earners in the Korean entertainment industry. He is celebrated for his standout performances in hit K-dramas like “Crash Landing on You” (2019-2020) and classics such as “My Lovely Sam-Soon” (2005) and “Secret Garden” (2010-2011). At 38, he earned USD113,000 (RM539,349) per episode, a significant jump from his earlier earnings.
In addition to his TV success, he’s made a mark in Korean cinema with hits like “A Millionaire’s First Love” (2006) and “Confidential Assignment” (2017) including its sequel, “Confidential Assignment 2: International” (2022). It was a box office hit grossing over USD53 million (RM252,968,999).
5. Lee Min-Ho (이민호)
In “Boys Over Flowers” (2009), Lee MIn-ho captured the hearts of audiences through Gu Ju-pyo, becoming an icon of the Hallyu wave with over 31 million Instagram followers. His acclaimed dramas include “City Hunter” (2011), “Faith” (2012), “The Heir” (2013), “Legend of the Blue Sea” (2016), and “The King: Eternal Monarch” (2020).
Though he’s rare in films, he earned the Grand Bell Award for “Gangnam Blues” (2015). In 2022, The actor starred in Apple TV+’s “Pachinko,” a highly anticipated series with a budget rivalling “The Crown.” While his previous per-episode salary was around USD80,000 (RM381,840), his earnings for “Pachinko” remain undisclosed.
6. Jo In Sung (조인성)
Jo In Sung’s journey from the MBC sitcom “Jump” in 1999 to lead roles in hit K-dramas like “That Winter, What Happened in Bali,” “It’s Okay, That’s Love,” and “The Wild Blows” catapulted him into stardom. Born on 28th July 1981, he’s now 41 and boasts a massive global fanbase. With an estimated net worth of USD12 million (RM57,234,000), largely from acting and endorsements, he’s one of Korea’s highest-paid actors. He earns around USD67,100 (RM320,033) per scene and his talent and dedication solidify his status as a powerhouse in Korean entertainment.
7. Gong Yoo (공지철)
Gong Yoo, famed for “Goblin (2016)”, captivates with both talent and looks. As an ambassador for brands like Tom Ford Beauty and Chanel Korea, his charm solidifies his status as a heartthrob. With a net worth of USD14 million (RM66,773,000) and over 4 million Instagram followers, his popularity soars. Reportedly earning USD20 million (RM95,390,000) from “Squid Game (2021)” and lucrative endorsements, he enjoys a lavish lifestyle, owning luxury properties and a sleek Kia Cadenza.
8. Park Seo-joon ( 박서준)
Park Seo-Joon’s net worth is at USD21 million (RM100,159,500) in 2021, primarily from his acting career. He earned USD25,000 (RM119,237) per episode for “She Was Pretty (2015)” and starred in hits like “Midnight Runners (2017)” and “Parasite (2019).” With a YouTube following of over a million, he earns up to USD60,000 (RM286,170) annually. Despite lavish purchases, he’s known for generosity, donating USD83,000 (RM395,868) to flood victims and matching that to support COVID-19 efforts in Daegu.
9. Lee Jong Suk (이종석)
Lee Jong-suk’s net worth is at USD32 million (RM151,648,000), boosted by his lucrative fees, endorsements, and successful projects. With IU, his combined wealth is speculated to be around USD78.7 million (RM372,959,300). With 26.3 million followers, he’s a sought-after brand ambassador for luxury names like Prada and Burberry, as well as for CJ ENM’s fashion brand and Semir. Notably, he’s made successful real estate investments, including properties in Hannam-dong and Yongsan, and a profitable venture turning an abandoned building into a cafe-restaurant called 89Mansion.
10. Ji Chang Wook (지창욱)
Ji Chang Wook, with estimated earnings of USD12.5 million (RM59,237,500), has left a significant mark on Korean dramas with standout performances in series like “Smile Again” (2010-2011) and “Healer” (2014-2015). His talent has earned him widespread recognition and a devoted fanbase.
With lucrative endorsements in fashion and skincare, he’s amassed a net worth of USD70 million by 2023. Additionally, he reportedly earns over USD67,000 (RM317,513) per episode for his TV roles, showcasing his substantial earnings from acting and brand collaborations.
Sources: India Today, Prestige, Lifestyle Asia (1)(2)(3), NUBIA MAGAZINE!.
Sabrina Azahar and Justin contributed to this article.
