The 10 Most Beloved K-drama Actors of 2025 (Men)

K-dramas have taken the world by storm with engaging stories, memorable characters, and emotionally powerful performances. Much of this success comes from the charisma and talent of their male leads, who move effortlessly between romance, action, historical drama, and comedy.

In this list, we gathered 10 K-drama actors who are extremely beloved by the public, not only for their looks, but also for their careers, dedication, and hard work.

10 - Lee Joon Gi

Lee Joon Gi is a South Korean actor, singer, and model, currently represented by Namoo Actors. His passion for acting began in high school after watching a performance of Hamlet, an experience that completely changed his life plans. Determined to pursue an artistic career, he moved to Seoul and endured years of hardship, working temporary jobs until he was accepted into the Seoul Institute of the Arts.

Known for his physical and emotional commitment to his roles, Lee Joon Gi has built a solid career, especially in historical and action K-dramas. He completed his mandatory military service in February 2012 and continues to be admired for his discipline, versatility, and strong connection with fans.

9 - Park Hyung Sik

Park Hyung Sik is a singer, actor, and producer, and a very beloved figure among K-drama fans. He debuted in 2010 as the main vocalist and visual of the group ZE:A before fully transitioning into acting. With a degree in Performing Arts, he has always shown a strong commitment to artistic growth.

After ZE:A entered an indefinite hiatus, Hyung Sik solidified his acting career by starring in several hit dramas. He completed his military service between 2019 and 2021 and later co-founded P&Studio with his longtime managers. In July 2025, he signed an exclusive contract with the agency RÊVE, marking a new professional chapter.

8 - Nam Joo Hyuk

Nam Joo Hyuk originally dreamed of becoming a professional basketball player. However, an injury ended that path early and opened the door to a new future. Born in Busan, he entered the entertainment industry as a model, making his runway debut in 2013.

He made his acting debut in 2014 and quickly stood out for portraying sensitive and emotionally rich characters, winning over audiences with sincere performances. In March 2023, Nam Joo Hyuk enlisted for mandatory military service, serving in the military police. Although this temporarily paused his career, it further strengthened public respect for his sense of responsibility.

7 - Lee Min Ho

Lee Min Ho is without a doubt one of the most recognizable faces in K-dramas worldwide. He began acting while still in high school and faced one of the most difficult moments of his life in 2006, when he survived a serious car accident that nearly ended both his career and his life.

After months of recovery and perseverance, he returned to the screen stronger than ever, securing leading roles that turned him into a global icon. He completed his military service in 2019, and his story of resilience is admired as much as his talent and on-screen charisma.

6 - Lee Dong Wook

Lee Dong Wook is known for his elegance, commanding presence, and remarkable versatility. With a background in media arts and broadcasting, he has built a consistent career over the years, moving seamlessly between romance, thrillers, and fantasy genres.

His role as the Grim Reaper in Goblin earned him widespread recognition, including major awards for supporting actor. He completed his military service between 2009 and 2011 and remains one of the most respected and reliable actors in the K-drama industry.

5 - Song Joong Ki

Before becoming an actor, Song Joong Ki was a competitive speed skater who reached the national level. An injury forced him to leave the sport, but it paved the way for academic success and eventually for a career in acting.

Known for his intelligence, charisma, and carefully chosen roles, he achieved global fame with Descendants of the Sun. His personal life has also drawn public attention over the years, including his marriages and the birth of his son in 2023, marking a more mature and stable phase of his life.

4 - Kim Soo Hyun

Kim Soo Hyun is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. Since his debut in 2007, he has accumulated numerous awards, including multiple Daesang honors, solidifying his status as a true industry phenomenon.

Beyond acting, he became known as the “CF King,” dominating advertising campaigns for years. After completing his military service, he returned to the spotlight with the hit K-drama It’s Okay to Not Be Okay. Despite recent controversies surrounding his personal and professional life, his artistic impact and popularity remain undeniable.

3 - Park Seo Joon

Park Seo Joon began his career after completing military service, which gave him a sense of maturity early in his artistic journey. He officially debuted in 2011 and quickly stood out for his strong screen presence and natural acting style.

In addition to acting, he has also contributed vocals to the soundtracks of his own dramas, creating an even stronger bond with audiences. His steady growth has made him one of the most trusted and beloved actors on Korean television.

2 - Ji Chang Wook

Ji Chang Wook began his career in musical theater, which explains his expressiveness and emotional control on screen. Since his film debut in 2006, he has built a career defined by intense and versatile roles.

Awarded multiple times over the years, he stands out in both historical and contemporary K-dramas. After completing his military service, he returned stronger than ever, earning recent awards and signing with Spring Company, an agency founded by his longtime manager.

1 - Lee Jong Suk

At the top of the list is Lee Jong Suk, one of the most beloved and respected K-drama actors. He began his career as a model and made his acting debut at a very young age, showing clear talent from his earliest roles.

Known for portraying emotionally complex characters, he gained definitive recognition with School 2013. After completing his military service in 2021, he continued his successful trajectory, including in his personal life, publicly confirming his relationship with IU. In 2024, he signed with Ace Factory, marking a new stage in his career.

These actors have won over audiences not just because of their appearance, but because of their dedication, talent, and personal stories of perseverance beyond the screen. Each of them, in their own way, has helped turn K-dramas into a global phenomenon.

Who is your favorite K-drama actor? Let us know in the comments, and see you next time!