Most Popular Korean Male Actors Among American Audiences
These actors have gained major attention in the U.S. through Netflix hits, Hollywood appearances, or international awards. Here's a curated list:
Lee Jung-jae
Famous for: Squid GameWhy Americans love him:
Became a global sensation after starring in Squid Game.
Award: Won the Emmy for Best Actor – the first Korean actor to do so.
Hollywood move: Starring in Disney+’s Star Wars: The Acolyte.
Gong Yoo
Famous for: Train to Busan, Goblin (Guardian)Why Americans love him:
His performances in Train to Busan and Goblin made him a fan favorite on Netflix.
Had a cameo in Squid Game, which intrigued global fans.
Known for both romantic and action roles.
Song Kang-ho
Famous for: Parasite, The Host, Secret SunshineWhy Americans love him:
Lead actor in Parasite, which won Best Picture at the Oscars.
Critically acclaimed and often compared to legendary actors for his range and depth.
Won Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival.
Park Seo-jun
Famous for: Itaewon Class, Fight for My WayWhy Americans love him:
Became popular through Itaewon Class on Netflix, especially among millennials.
Appeared in Marvel’s The Marvels (2023) – gaining U.S. attention.
Has a strong female fanbase overseas.
Hyun Bin
Famous for: Crash Landing on YouWhy Americans love him:
Crash Landing on You was a huge hit on Netflix in the U.S.
Known as the face of Korean romance dramas.
One of the most requested actors for U.S. fan events.
Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee)
Famous for: Train to Busan, The OutlawsWhy Americans love him:
Starred as Gilgamesh in Marvel’s Eternals.
Known for his strong, tough-guy roles and charming personality.
Actively promotes in the U.S. under the name "Don Lee".
Choi Woo-shik
Famous for: Parasite, Our Beloved SummerWhy Americans love him:
Gained recognition through Parasite and became popular on Netflix with Our Beloved Summer.
His soft-spoken, relatable charm resonates with Gen Z audiences.
🏆 Most Mentioned Korean Male Actors in the U.S.
Lee Jung-jae: Squid Game, Star Wars series on Disney+
Gong Yoo: Train to Busan, Goblin, iconic image
Song Kang-ho: Parasite, acclaimed veteran actor
Park Seo-jun: Netflix fame + Marvel debut
Hyun Bin: Romantic icon from Crash Landing on You
Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee): Marvel’s Eternals, action appeal
Choi Woo-shik: Parasite + Netflix rom-com charm
Gong Yoo: Train to Busan, Goblin, iconic image
Song Kang-ho: Parasite, acclaimed veteran actor
Park Seo-jun: Netflix fame + Marvel debut
Hyun Bin: Romantic icon from Crash Landing on You
Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee): Marvel’s Eternals, action appeal
Choi Woo-shik: Parasite + Netflix rom-com charm