In the wild and wonderful world of K-drama, some actors have really stood out with their amazing skills, pulling viewers in with every role they take on. Think of stars like Kim Soo Hyun, Ji Chang Wook, Park Bo Gum, and more. They’ve left their mark on viewers’ hearts all around the globe with their unforgettable performances.
A great actor has the ability to stir deep feelings in viewers as they showcase the various colours of their character. From bringing the waterworks to conveying the anguish of their struggles, here are the top 10 actors who’ve totally nailed the art of showing emotional depth, earning them the crown of “Kings of Tears” in Korean entertainment.
1. Kim Soo Hyun (김수현)
Kim Soo Hyun’s emotional performances often move viewers to tears, with his portrayal of sadness being particularly convincing and natural. Notable sad scenes include his character Moon Kang-tae’s breakdown after confronting his traumatic past in “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” and the tearful goodbye in “My Love from the Star” where Do Min-joon must leave his love forever.
2. Ji Soo (김지수)
In “Scarlet Heart: Ryeo,” Ji Soo’s character Wang Jung experiences unrequited love and the burden of royal expectations, resulting in heartbreaking vulnerability. Similarly, in “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon,” his portrayal of a sensitive character facing familial pressures and unrequited love resonated deeply with viewers, evoking empathy and emotion.
3. Kim Seon Ho (김선호)
Kim Seon Ho’s performances are profoundly moving, especially his heart-wrenching crying scenes in “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” that vividly convey his character’s pain and heartache. Notable among these is the scene where Hong Du-sik breaks down at the memory of his tragic past. Additionally, in “Start-Up,” his character Han Ji-pyeong’s heartbreaking realisation of his unrequited love adds another layer of sadness to his performances, showcasing Kim Seon Ho’s exceptional ability to evoke deep emotions.
4. Ji Sung (지성)
Ji Sung’s mastery at portraying a wide range of emotions shines through in dramas like “Kill Me, Heal Me” and “Defendant.” In “Kill Me, Heal Me,” his portrayal of a character with multiple personalities facing their own traumas left viewers deeply moved. Similarly, in “Defendant,” his depiction of a man wrongfully accused of murder while trying to protect his family showcased his exceptional talent in conveying raw emotion and vulnerability.
5. Ji Chang Wook (지창욱)
Ji Chang Wook excels at expressing a wide range of emotions, often through his eyes, particularly in his crying scenes. Some of the saddest moments include his character Seo Jung-hoo mourning the loss of a loved one in “Healer” and the emotional description of betrayal and death in “Empress Ki.” In “Suspicious Partner,” his character Noh Ji-wook’s emotional breakdowns add depth to his performances, showcasing his remarkable ability to convey sorrow and vulnerability.
6. Park Bo Gum (박보검)
Park Bo Gum, known for his emotional performances, often sheds tears with his big, puppy eyes both on and off-screen. K-drama enthusiasts will remember the poignant moment in “Encounter” where viewers couldn’t move their eyes from his face as tears filled his eyes, portraying Kim Jin Hyuk bidding farewell to Cha Soo Hyun, played by Song Hye Kyo. Other sad scenes include his tearful parting with his first love in “Reply 1988” and Crown Prince Lee Young’s emotional breakdown in “Love in the Moonlight” as he confronts the harsh realities of his responsibilities and love.
7. Park Seo Joon (박서준)
Park Seo Joon masterfully portrays emotional depth, even in silent scenes. His exceptional ability to convey the intensity of a crying scene shines through in roles like Park Sae-ro-yi in “Itaewon Class,” where he breaks down after his father’s death. Additionally, his portrayal of deeply emotional moments, such as confronting traumatic memories in “What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim” and Go Dong-man’s tearful realization of his limitations in “Fight for My Way,” adds another layer of sadness to his performances.
8. Hyun Bin (현빈)
Hyun Bin, known for “Crash Landing on You,” delivers memorable crying scenes that deeply resonate. One iconic moment is when he runs towards Son Ye Jin, tears streaming down their faces, capturing the intensity of their love. Other sad scenes include his heart-wrenching breakdown in “Secret Garden,” where his character grapples with losing his love, and the emotional farewell in “Memories of the Alhambra,” where grief overwhelms him.
9. Lee Dong Wook (이동욱)
Lee Dong Wook, as the Grim Reaper in “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,” deeply moved viewers with his ill-fated love for Sunny, played by Yoo In Na. The scene where he recalls their past and tears fill his eyes remains one of the most emotional moments in K-drama history. Additionally, his tearful goodbye in “Scent of a Woman,” as Kang Ji Wook faces the impending loss of his terminally ill love, and his emotional breakdown in “Life,” confronting overwhelming pressures as a doctor, further showcase his exceptional acting prowess.
10. Rowoon (김석우)
Although primarily recognised as a singer, Rowoon has shown a natural aptitude for acting. His performance in “Destined With You” stands out, particularly in the scene where he rushes Hong Joo to the hospital, showcasing his emotional range.
Additionally, in “Extraordinary You,” his tearful confrontation with Haru deeply resonated with audiences. Furthermore, his moving breakdown in “The King’s Affection” showcases Rowoon’s exceptional ability to convey complex emotions on screen.
Sources: Allkpop, Koreaboo, The Singapore Women’s Weekly.
Sabrina Azahar contributed to this article.
