Jo Jung-suk is a talented South Korean actor who has captivated audiences with his versatile performances in both dramas and movies. Known for his charismatic presence and ability to portray a wide range of characters, Jo has become one of the most sought-after actors in the Korean entertainment industry. As of 2025, he has an impressive list of works that showcase his acting prowess. Let’s take a look at the 10 best Korean dramas and movies starring Jo Jung-suk.
1. Hospital Playlist (2020-2021)
Hospital Playlist is a heartwarming medical drama that follows the lives of five doctors who have been friends since medical school. Jo Jung-suk plays Lee Ik-jun, a charming and skilled general surgeon who is also a single father. The series beautifully portrays the everyday lives of medical professionals, their friendships, and personal struggles.
What makes Hospital Playlist special is its focus on the bonds between the main characters. The show perfectly balances emotional moments with light-hearted humor. Jo Jung-suk’s performance as the cheerful and caring Dr. Lee Ik-jun is a highlight of the series. His natural chemistry with the other cast members and his ability to convey both comedic and serious scenes make this drama a must-watch.
2. Captivating the King (2024)
In this historical drama, Jo Jung-suk takes on the role of King Lee In, a ruler who appears strong on the outside but struggles with inner turmoil. The story revolves around the king’s relationship with Kang Hee-soo, a woman who becomes a spy to seek revenge against him.
Captivating the King showcases Jo Jung-suk’s ability to portray complex characters. His performance as the conflicted king is both powerful and nuanced, allowing viewers to empathize with his character’s struggles. The drama’s mix of political intrigue, romance, and personal growth makes it a compelling watch.
3. Exit (2019)
Exit is an action-comedy film that proves Jo Jung-suk’s versatility as an actor. He plays Yong-nam, an unemployed young man who must use his rock-climbing skills to save people from a mysterious toxic gas spreading through the city.
This movie is a perfect blend of thrilling action sequences and humor. Jo Jung-suk’s portrayal of Yong-nam is both endearing and heroic. His chemistry with co-star Im Yoon-ah adds a delightful romantic element to the story. Exit was a commercial success and showcased Jo’s ability to lead a blockbuster film.
4. Oh My Ghost (2015)
Oh My Ghost is a romantic comedy drama where Jo Jung-suk plays Kang Sun-woo, a talented chef who becomes involved with his shy assistant Na Bong-sun, who is occasionally possessed by a mischievous ghost.
This drama allows Jo to display his comedic timing and romantic lead capabilities. His character’s journey from a strict, no-nonsense chef to a caring and understanding person is beautifully portrayed. The unique premise of the show, combined with Jo’s charming performance, makes Oh My Ghost a delightful watch.
5. My Annoying Brother (2016)
In this heartwarming comedy-drama film, Jo Jung-suk plays Doo-sik, a con man who is released from prison to take care of his younger brother, a former judo athlete who has lost his sight. The movie explores themes of family, forgiveness, and personal growth.
Jo’s performance as the troublemaking but ultimately caring older brother is both funny and touching. His chemistry with co-star Do Kyung-soo (also known as D.O. from EXO) feels genuine and adds depth to their on-screen relationship. My Annoying Brother showcases Jo’s ability to balance comedy with emotional depth.
6. Don’t Dare to Dream (Jealousy Incarnate) (2016)
This romantic comedy drama stars Jo Jung-suk as Lee Hwa-shin, a competitive and arrogant news anchor who finds himself in a love triangle with his best friend and a weather forecaster.
Don’t Dare to Dream allows Jo to showcase his romantic lead abilities while also diving into more complex emotions like jealousy and insecurity. His portrayal of the flawed but lovable Hwa-shin is both entertaining and relatable. The drama’s witty dialogue and Jo’s chemistry with co-star Gong Hyo-jin make it a standout in the romantic comedy genre.
7. The Face Reader (2013)
In this historical film, Jo Jung-suk takes on a supporting role as Jin-hyung, a skilled swordsman. The movie is set during a period of political turmoil in the Joseon Dynasty and follows a face reader who becomes involved in a power struggle.
Although not the lead role, Jo’s performance in The Face Reader demonstrates his ability to hold his own alongside veteran actors. His portrayal of the loyal and skilled Jin-hyung adds depth to the film’s ensemble cast. This movie is a great example of Jo’s range as an actor, showing he can excel in both leading and supporting roles.
8. Nokdu Flower (2019)
Nokdu Flower is a historical drama set during the Donghak Peasant Revolution in the late 19th century. Jo Jung-suk plays Baek Yi-kang, the illegitimate son of a wealthy landowner who joins the peasant army.
This drama showcases Jo’s ability to portray complex historical characters. His performance as the conflicted Yi-kang, torn between his family loyalties and his sense of justice, is powerful and moving. Nokdu Flower allows Jo to demonstrate his dramatic acting skills in a serious historical context.
9. Two Cops (2017)
In this fantasy crime drama, Jo Jung-suk plays two roles: a righteous detective named Cha Dong-tak and the spirit of a con man named Gong Su-chang who possesses Dong-tak’s body.
Two Cops gives Jo the opportunity to showcase his versatility by playing two distinct characters. His ability to switch between the straight-laced detective and the mischievous con man is impressive and entertaining. This drama is a great example of Jo’s range as an actor and his skill in bringing multiple characters to life.
10. The King 2 Hearts (2012)
While Jo Jung-suk plays a supporting role in this drama, his performance as Eun Shi-kyung, a loyal royal guard, left a strong impression on viewers. The King 2 Hearts is a romantic comedy set in an alternate reality where South Korea is a constitutional monarchy.
Even in a supporting role, Jo’s portrayal of the principled and devoted Shi-kyung stands out. His character’s unwavering loyalty and sense of duty provide a strong contrast to the main characters’ more playful dynamics. This drama marks one of Jo’s earlier works and shows the promise that would lead to his future success as a leading actor.
