The rise of Korean television has transformed its actors into global sensations. As the popularity of K-dramas continues to surge, these performers have amassed a devoted following that spans across various cultures and countries.
The increase in viewership and the immense success of shows like Squid Game on Netflix highlight this phenomenon, showcasing the widespread appeal of Korean entertainment and its ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
With this growing demand, many K-drama stars have seen their earning potential soar, solidifying their status as some of the highest-paid actors in the industry.
This trend not only reflects the success of their projects but also emphasizes the significant cultural impact these shows have made, enticing viewers to binge-watch and explore more of what Korean television offers.
Key Takeaways
- K-drama actors have gained immense popularity globally.
- The success of series like Squid Game marks a new era for Korean entertainment.
- Many K-drama stars are now among the highest earners in acting.
Actors Making More Money as K-Drama Surges in Popularity
The remarkable rise of Korean dramas has not only captivated audiences but also paved the way for actors to achieve immense financial success. With the global appeal of these shows, the actors leading them are increasingly finding themselves in lucrative positions, commanding impressive per-episode salaries.
Kim Soo-hyun
Celebrated for his outstanding performances, Kim Soo-hyun has firmly established himself as a significant figure in the Korean entertainment scene. His journey began with the drama Kimchi Cheese Smile in 2007, and he quickly gained recognition through notable series such as Dream High and Moon Embracing the Sun. His acting prowess extends to films, including The Thieves and Secretly, Greatly.
After completing his military service, Kim returned to television with a bang, making memorable appearances in dramas like Hotel del Luna and Crash Landing on You. His leading role in It’s Okay to Not Be Okay earned him considerable acclaim, along with a reported salary of approximately KRW 500 million per episode.
In a shift during 2024, Kim took a lower salary for his role in Queen of Tears, which became a monumental success, achieving the highest ratings in its network’s history. For this show, he was compensated around KRW 300 million per episode, leading to total earnings of KRW 5 billion for the series.
Prior to this, his performance in One Ordinary Day made him the highest-paid K-drama actor, with earnings around USD 423,000 per episode.
Lee Jung-jae
Lee Jung-jae’s emergence as a global star was catalyzed by his performance in Netflix’s groundbreaking series, Squid Game. This role not only showcased his talent but also earned him prestigious awards, marking him as the first Korean actor to win at the Critics Choice and Emmy Awards.
Reportedly earning USD 248,000 per episode for Squid Game, his total for the nine-episode run reached USD 2.2 million. With a confirmed return for the second season, it’s speculated that his salary could dramatically increase, with reports suggesting a demand of around USD 1 million per episode.
In addition to his success on television, Lee has a long-standing career in film, with celebrated roles in movies like Il Mare and Deliver Us from Evil. As he branches out into international projects, including his role in The Acolyte, his earning potential continues to rise, further cementing him as one of the industry’s top talents.
Song Joong-ki
Song Joong-ki has become a household name, especially known for his captivating role in Descendants of the Sun. Over the years, he has built a strong fan base and received widespread acclaim, particularly for his appearances in dramas such as Vincenzo and Reborn Rich.
He was reportedly compensated around USD 170,000 per episode for Vincenzo. In 2023, his starring role in Reborn Rich saw him earning approximately USD 228,500 per episode, accumulating about USD 3.65 million across the series. This drama highlighted his versatility and solidified his position as one of the highest earners in the K-drama sphere.
Beyond television, Song has ventured into film, recently starring in Hopeless, which received attention at the Cannes Film Festival. His dynamic performances across various genres showcase his talent and contribute to his increasing popularity and financial success.
Song Hye-kyo
Recognized as one of the premier actresses in Korean drama, Song Hye-kyo recently clinched the Baeksang Arts Award for her impressive performance in Glory. Her acclaim was further echoed in various nominations, solidifying her status in the entertainment industry.
In reports from early 2023, it was indicated that Song Hye-kyo was earning around USD 163,000 per episode for The Glory, aligning her pay with that of other top actresses like Jun Ji-hyun. Her extensive experience in the industry dates back to the 1990s with notable roles in classics such as Autumn in My Heart and Full House.
Through her enduring appeal and capability to connect with audiences, Song remains one of the leading figures in K-drama, continuously earning and achieving recognition for her work.
Jun Ji-hyun
Jun Ji-hyun, renowned for her beauty and talent, has left an indelible mark on Korean cinema and television. With hit dramas like My Love from the Star and films such as The Thieves, she has amassed both a loyal fan base and significant wealth. Reports peg her earnings at approximately USD 160,000 per episode for her various projects.
Her work is marked by versatility, moving gracefully between different genres and roles. Jun’s ability to capture audiences’ hearts has helped maintain her status as one of the top-paid actresses in Korea.
Hyun Bin
Hyun Bin rose to prominence through roles in beloved dramas including Secret Garden and Crash Landing on You. His fairytale romance with co-star Son Ye-jin garnered media attention and continuously fueled his fame. Notably, Hyun Bin’s salary reportedly reached USD 200,000 per episode for Crash Landing on You, further enhancing his reputation as one of the industry giants.
With a wealth of experience in both films and television, Hyun Bin is celebrated for his charm and ability to portray complex emotions powerfully. He is a consistent favorite among fans and remains a dominant figure in the K-drama landscape.
Go Hyun-jung
Go Hyun-jung is a notable figure in the world of Korean television, known for her performances that blend depth and nuance. She gained popularity through series such as Queen Seondeok and My Lawyer, Mr. Jo. Her salary is estimated to be around USD 120,000 per episode.
Her sustained success across different projects showcases her artistic range, and her contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed, placing her among the top earners.
Lee Min-ho
With a career spanning over a decade, Lee Min-ho has become one of the most bankable stars in South Korea. Gaining fame through Boys Over Flowers, he has continued to secure leading roles in various successful dramas, including The King: Eternal Monarch and Pachinko.
Reportedly, Lee Min-ho’s earnings average around $30 million annually, with his per-episode salary being approximately USD 250,000. His international appeal, particularly in Asian markets, has solidified his status as a phenomenon in both television and film.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average earnings for top K-drama actors?
Top K-drama actors usually earn substantial salaries, often ranging from USD 160,000 to over USD 1 million per episode, depending on the show and their level of fame.
Who is the highest-paid K-drama actor currently?
As of now, Kim Soo-hyun is recognized as one of the highest-paid K-drama actors, particularly following his leading role in One Ordinary Day where he earned around USD 423,000 per episode.
What factors contribute to the high salaries of K-drama actors?
The popularity of Korean dramas globally, the influence of streaming platforms, and the growing fanbase contribute to the increasing salaries of actors in the industry.
Are these actors earning significantly more than they did years ago?
Yes, as K-dramas have surged in popularity, actors’ salaries have increased dramatically as a result of rising viewership and international success.
How does the K-drama industry compare to other entertainment industries in terms of actor salaries?
While exact comparisons can be complex, K-drama actors often earn competitive salaries comparable to top actresses and actors in Hollywood, particularly with the increasing globalization of content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the highest earning actors in Korean television dramas?
In the realm of Korean television, Kim Soo-hyun often stands out as one of the top earners. His impressive per-episode fees have set records, making him a prominent figure in the industry. Other notable actors also include Lee Min-ho and Hyun Bin, who have consistently delivered hit dramas and garnered substantial earnings.
Which female Korean drama stars have the highest earnings?
Among female actors, Song Hye-kyo and Jun Ji-hyun frequently rank as the highest earners. Their strong performances and popularity in major dramas have significantly elevated their salaries, making them leading figures in the industry.
Who have been the all-time highest earning Korean drama actors?
Historically, Kim Soo-hyun holds the title for all-time high earnings thanks to several successful projects. Actors like Lee Min-ho and Hyun Bin also enjoy a place among the highest earners, reflecting their long-standing impact on Korean drama.
Can you list the highest earning Korean drama actors from the past year?
In the last year, Kim Soo-hyun again emerged as the highest-paid actor, particularly notable for his role in “One Ordinary Day.” Other actors who made significant earnings include Song Hye-kyo and Lee Jung-jae, thanks to their roles in popular dramas.
What are the current earnings of top-ranked Korean drama actors?
Currently, top-ranked actors like Kim Soo-hyun earn around 500 million won (approximately $400,000) per episode. This figure highlights the considerable financial rewards for leading roles in successful series.
Which Korean actors have secured the lead in terms of salary in recent drama productions?
Leading the salary charts recently are Kim Soo-hyun and Lee Jung-jae. Their recent projects have not only showcased their talent but also fetched them record-breaking compensation, emphasizing their status within the industry.
