They Carried the Whole Drama on Their Backs – 11 Korean Actors Who Deserve All the Awards!

K-dramas find their own niche of bringing the viewer in, and while unbelievable writing and direction have their say, there are times when the actors themselves carry the entire show. They breathe life into the characters, leaving us in stitches, tears, and everything else in between. These actors do not merely portray a role – they become the heart and soul of the drama, rendering it irreplaceable. Here are 11 Korean actors who actually stole the shows of their respective dramas, garnering all the accolades they are worth.

1. Lee Min Ho – The King: Eternal Monarch

Well-liked for being one of the teen heartthrobs, Lee Min Ho acted dual roles in The King: Eternal Monarch to reveal his ability to perform differently in both worlds, modern day and a separate universe. His take on conflicted emperor faced with love vs. duty was emotive and captivating. Equally well balanced action, love, and drama, he could carry the responsibility of the show on his sole shoulder.

2. Kim Soo Hyun – It's Okay to Not Be Okay

Kim Soo Hyun's acting of Moon Gang Tae, the caretaker of his autistic brother, was one of the best last year. His ability to convey raw emotional vulnerability, yet never losing the rough persona, was dizzying. Kim Soo Hyun's chemistry on-screen with his co-stars, especially Seo Ye Ji, elevated the drama, which turned out to be an instant classic.

3. IU – Hotel Del Luna

As the charismatic and poignant owner of a ghost hotel, IU delivered a masterclass performance as Jang Man Wol. With her impeccable combination of humor, pathos, and grit, IU owned the role. Her emotional depth resonated with audiences, and Hotel Del Luna became an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience.

4. Park Seo Joon – What's Wrong with Secretary Kim

Park Seo Joon's characterization of the narcissistic, but lovable Lee Young Joon was absolutely on target. His comedic delivery and timing, paired with real romantic chemistry with Park Min Young, made this show one of the best romantic comedies. Park Seo Joon possesses a great skill in making even the most ridiculous seconds believable, and that is why he's adored so much.

5. Son Ye Jin – Crash Landing on You

Son Ye Jin's acting as Yoon Se Ri, a South Korean heiress who is in North Korea, was pure perfection. Her elegance, toughness, and vulnerability made her one of the most lovable female characters in recent history of K-drama. Together with Hyun Bin, their chemistry was spot on, and Son Ye Jin totally dominated this drama with her range of emotions.

6. Hyun Bin – Crash Landing on You

Hyun Bin once more proved why he's one of the biggest K-drama stars by acting as Ri Jeong Hyeok, the North Korean soldier who falls for a South Korean woman. His stoic but extremely emotional performance captivated audiences around the globe. His ability to show weakness amidst toughness rendered his character unforgettable.

7. Lee Jung Suk – While You Were Sleeping

Lee Jung Suk's performance in While You Were Sleeping was enthralling. As a prosecutor with the gift of foresight, Lee Jung Suk performed an emotional roller coaster. He portrayed a character stuck in the war between justice and destiny, and his performance played a crucial role in making this drama so compelling. His nuanced performance, rich in depth, made this show a must-see.

8. Gong Yoo – Goblin

Gong Yoo's acting as Kim Shin, the immortal goblin, in Goblin was nothing short of iconic. His brooding, melancholic acting, combined with his natural charisma, made him the heart and soul of the show. Gong Yoo brought a sense of quiet melancholy to the character, and his ability to convey complex emotions through silence made his acting unforgettable.

9. Jung Hae In – One Spring Night

Jung Hae In's performance as Lee Jeok, a pharmacist who falls for a single mother, was poignant and heartrending. He had undeniable chemistry with Han Ji Min, and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his character made him one of the brightest young actors of his generation. One Spring Night was a poignant, tear-inducing experience, and Jung Hae In's performance was at the heart of its success.

10. Kim Ji Won – Descendants of the Sun

Kim Ji Won's acting in Descendants of the Sun as the feisty and independent doctor, Dr. Kang Mo Yeon, was career best. She displayed incredible range, fluctuating between tough determination and vulnerability. Her chemistry with Song Joong Ki was hot, and she carried the show on her shoulders with her strength and poise, and thus became one of the top K-drama actresses.

11. Ji Chang Wook – Healer

Ji Chang Wook's acting in Healer as the mysterious, flirtatious, and gifted "night courier" was a defining role in his career. His ability to play a character so complex, from a rough street fighter to a man seeking love, was absolutely flawless. Ji Chang Wook's emotional depth and his non-beatable chemistry with Park Min Young made this drama an unforgettable watch.

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