The 1990s were a remarkable era for the South Korean entertainment industry, laying the foundation for what would later become the global phenomenon we know today. It was during this decade that many of today’s veteran actors took their first steps into the spotlight. From modest television roles to breakout film performances, these stars have now become icons.
Here’s a look back at some of the popular veteran actors who began their acting journey in the 1990s.
Lee Jung Jae
Lee Jung Jae, the star from the global hit series ’Squid Game,’ first began his career not on screen but as a fashion model. His transition into acting came in 1995 with the television drama ‘Sandglass.’ Lee quickly impressed both viewers and critics alike, marking the beginning of his successful and enduring acting career.
Won Bin
Won Bin’s acting debut came with a supporting role in the 1997 television series ‘Propose’ and later skyrocketed to fame through the Hallyu drama ‘Autumn in My Heart’ in 2000. Despite his prolonged hiatus, he is still very popular, and even today fans are longing for his return.
Lee Byung Hun
A household name in both Korea and Hollywood, Lee Byung Hun started his acting career through a KBS talent audition, landing a role in the 1991 drama ‘Asphalt My Hometown’ He has earned acclaim for his dynamic performances in both dramas and blockbuster films, including his role as the Front Man in ‘Squid Game.’
Choi Min Soo
Choi Min Soo debuted as an actor in the 1986 film ‘Son of God,’ and his small-screen journey began with the 1987 KBS drama ‘Skewers.’ He remains the only actor, alongside Lee Byung Hun, to have won in all categories of the Best Actor Award at all three of South Korea’s most prestigious awards ceremonies.
Bae Yong Joon
Often credited as one of the pioneers of the Hallyu Wave, Bae Yong Joon achieved unprecedented fame through ‘Winter Sonata,’ which became a cultural touchstone across Asia. His acting journey began in 1994 with the drama ‘Salut D’Amour,’ followed by a breakout performance in ‘Our Sunny Days of Youth,’ which earned him a ‘Best New Actor’ award.
So Ji Sub
So Ji Sub started his career modelling for a jeans brand before moving into acting with roles in the sitcom ‘Three Guys and Three Girls’ and the drama ‘Model.’ His quiet charisma and steady growth turned him into one of Korea’s most notable leading men.
Song Kang Ho
Song Kang Ho first made his theatre debut in 1991 in the play ‘Dongseung (A Little Monk)’ before transitioning to film in 1996 with a small role in ‘The Day a Pig Fell into the Well.’ He would go on to dominate the silver screen, culminating in international recognition for his lead role in the Oscar-winning ‘Parasite.’
Yoo Ji Tae
Veteran South Korean actor Yoo Ji Tae, who began his career as a fashion model, made his acting debut in 1998 in the film ‘Bye June.’ He followed it up with an appearance in the 1999 drama ‘8 Love Stories,’ setting the stage for a career full of layered, emotionally resonant performances.
Park Sung Woong
Following his debut in the 1997 movie ‘No. 3,’ Park Sung Woong has starred in numerous films and dramas. He is a popular face among K-drama fans, particularly known for his works in hits like ‘Bloodhounds,’ ‘Life on Mars,’ and ‘Unlock My Boss,’ among others.
Jung Woo Sung
Popular veteran face of the South Korean entertainment industry, Jung Woo Sung, was selected as an actor through street casting. He made his film debut in a leading role in 1994 with ‘The Fox with Nine Tails’ and rose to stardom with the 1997 gangster movie ‘Beat.’
Song Seung Heon
Song Seung Heon, who rose to fame through the Hallyu drama ’Autumn in My Heart,’ first began his career as a model for a jeans brand in 1995. The following year, he appeared in the popular sitcom ‘Three Guys, Three Girls’ and debuted as an actor in 1997.
Ji Sung
Ji Sung’s first acting job came through a successful audition for the 1999 drama ‘KAIST,’ while he was still a university student. Since then, he has built a career defined by intense roles in critically acclaimed series like ‘Kill Me, Heal Me’ and ‘Defendant.’
Lee Dong Wook
Lee Dong Wook, the Grim Reaper from the super hit K-drama ‘Goblin,’ made his acting debut in 1999 in an MBC single episode drama after winning the grand prize in the V-NESS model contest. Later he acted in the KBS series ‘School 2’ and ‘School 3,’ laying the groundwork for his acting career.
These veteran actors who began their journeys in the 1990s have not only shaped the foundation of Korean entertainment but also helped propel it onto the global stage. Their lasting impact continues to inspire new generations of talent.
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