Kim Nam-gil is a talented South Korean actor who has captured the hearts of viewers with his diverse roles in both dramas and movies. As of 2025, he has built an impressive career spanning over two decades. Let’s explore the 10 best Korean dramas and movies starring Kim Nam-gil that showcase his acting prowess and versatility.
1. The Great Queen Seondeok (2009)
This historical drama marked Kim Nam-gil’s breakthrough role. Set in the Silla dynasty, the story follows the life of Queen Seondeok, the first female ruler of Korea. Kim Nam-gil plays Bidam, a complex character who starts as an ally to the queen but later leads a rebellion against her.
The drama is known for its beautiful costumes, intricate plot, and strong performances. Kim Nam-gil’s portrayal of Bidam earned him critical acclaim and several awards, including the Best New Actor at the 2010 Baeksang Arts Awards.
2. The Fiery Priest (2019)
In this action-comedy drama, Kim Nam-gil takes on the role of Kim Hae-il, a Catholic priest with anger management issues. The story follows Hae-il as he teams up with a detective and a prosecutor to solve crimes and fight corruption.
Kim Nam-gil’s performance in this drama was widely praised, earning him the prestigious Daesang (Grand Prize) at the 2019 SBS Drama Awards. The show’s blend of humor, action, and social commentary made it a hit with viewers.
3. Through the Darkness (2022)
This crime thriller drama sees Kim Nam-gil in the role of Song Ha-young, a criminal profiler working for the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency. Set in the late 1990s, the series explores the early days of criminal profiling in South Korea.
Kim Nam-gil’s nuanced portrayal of a profiler trying to understand the minds of serial killers while dealing with his own inner struggles received high praise from critics and viewers alike.
4. Island (2022-2023)
In this fantasy action series, Kim Nam-gil plays Van, a mysterious character who is half-human and half-demon. The story is set on Jeju Island and follows three individuals fighting against evil forces threatening to destroy the world.
The drama showcases Kim Nam-gil’s ability to take on fantastical roles, blending action sequences with emotional depth. His chemistry with co-stars Lee Da-hee and Cha Eun-woo added to the show’s appeal.
5. Memoir of a Murderer (2017)
This psychological thriller film features Kim Nam-gil as Tae-joo, a local policeman who becomes entangled with a former serial killer suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. The movie explores themes of memory, morality, and the nature of evil.
Kim Nam-gil’s portrayal of the complex and morally ambiguous Tae-joo demonstrated his ability to hold his own against veteran actor Sol Kyung-gu, further cementing his status as a versatile actor.
6. The Pirates (2014)
This swashbuckling adventure film sees Kim Nam-gil as Jang Sa-jung, a skilled swordsman and bandit leader who teams up with a female pirate captain to find a royal seal. The movie combines action, comedy, and romance in an entertaining package.
Kim Nam-gil’s charismatic performance as the roguish Jang Sa-jung showcased his ability to lead a big-budget blockbuster and his talent for action scenes.
7. One the Woman (2021)
In this comedy-drama, Kim Nam-gil plays Han Seung-wook, a chaebol heir who becomes involved with a prosecutor who has lost her memory. While Kim Nam-gil is not the lead in this series, his supporting role adds depth and charm to the story.
The drama allowed Kim Nam-gil to show a softer, more romantic side, proving his ability to adapt to different genres and character types.
8. Live Up to Your Name (2017)
This time-travel medical drama features Kim Nam-gil as Heo Im, a talented acupuncturist from the Joseon era who finds himself transported to modern-day Seoul. The series blends historical and contemporary elements, allowing Kim Nam-gil to showcase both his period drama skills and his comedic timing.
Kim Nam-gil’s portrayal of a man out of time, struggling to adapt to modern medicine while holding onto his traditional skills, was both humorous and touching.
9. The Shameless (2015)
This noir crime film sees Kim Nam-gil as Jung Jae-gon, a detective who becomes romantically involved with the girlfriend of the criminal he’s pursuing. The movie explores themes of morality, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.
Kim Nam-gil’s performance in this gritty, morally ambiguous role further demonstrated his range as an actor, earning him several award nominations.
10. Song of the Bandits (2023)
Set in the 1920s during the Japanese occupation of Korea, this action drama features Kim Nam-gil as Lee Yoon, a former military officer who becomes involved with a group of bandits fighting for Korean independence.
The series allowed Kim Nam-gil to return to the historical genre while also showcasing his action skills. His portrayal of a conflicted hero fighting for his country’s freedom resonated with viewers and critics alike.