Jung Il-woo has been a beloved actor in the Korean entertainment industry for nearly two decades. Known for his versatile acting skills and charming personality, Jung has starred in numerous popular dramas and movies throughout his career. As of 2025, here are the 10 best Korean dramas and movies featuring Jung Il-woo, showcasing his talent and the impact he has made on Korean television and cinema.
1. The Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)
This historical fantasy romance drama was a massive hit when it aired in 2012. Jung Il-woo played the role of Prince Yang-myung, the half-brother of the king and a rival for the female lead’s affections. The drama achieved incredibly high ratings, with its finale episode reaching an impressive 42.2% nationwide viewership. Jung’s portrayal of the conflicted prince who harbors unrequited love earned him critical acclaim and helped solidify his status as a leading actor in the industry.
2. Haechi (2019)
In this historical drama, Jung Il-woo took on the lead role of Prince Yeoning, who later becomes King Yeongjo of Joseon. The series follows the prince’s journey to become a just ruler while facing political challenges and personal struggles. Haechi was well-received by audiences, with its highest-rated episode reaching 12.7% viewership. Jung’s performance as the complex and determined prince showcased his growth as an actor and his ability to carry a lead role in a historical drama.
3. Bossam: Steal the Fate (2021)
This romantic historical drama features Jung Il-woo as Ba-woo, a man who accidentally kidnaps a princess while performing a “bossam” (a Joseon-era custom of kidnapping widows for remarriage). The series was a huge success for its network, MBN, breaking the channel’s previous rating record with its final episode reaching 9.8% viewership. Jung’s chemistry with his co-star and his portrayal of the roguish yet kindhearted Ba-woo earned him praise from viewers and critics alike.
4. The Return of Iljimae (2009)
Although an earlier work in Jung’s career, this historical action drama showcased his potential as a leading man. Jung played the titular role of Iljimae, a Robin Hood-like character in Joseon-era Korea. While the drama didn’t achieve high ratings, peaking at around 9.4%, it was well-received by critics and helped establish Jung as a versatile actor capable of handling action scenes and emotional depth.
5. Good Job (2022)
In this romantic comedy mystery drama, Jung Il-woo stars as Eun Sun-woo, a chaebol heir who leads a double life as a detective. The series combines elements of romance, comedy, and mystery, allowing Jung to showcase his range as an actor. Good Job maintained steady ratings throughout its run, with its highest-rated episode reaching 3.175% viewership. The drama was praised for its entertaining plot and the chemistry between Jung and his co-star.
6. Sweet Munchies (2020)
This romantic comedy drama features Jung Il-woo as Park Jin-sung, a chef who pretends to be gay to participate in a TV show. The series tackles themes of identity and love with a light-hearted touch. While the drama didn’t achieve high ratings, peaking at 1.3% viewership, it gained a dedicated fanbase and allowed Jung to show a more comedic side to his acting.
7. Cinderella with Four Knights (2016)
In this romantic comedy, Jung plays the role of Kang Ji-woon, one of four wealthy young men living in a mansion with the female lead. The drama was popular among younger viewers and achieved moderate success with ratings peaking at 5.3%. Jung’s portrayal of the rebellious and misunderstood Ji-woon added depth to the typical “bad boy” character often seen in romantic comedies.
8. The Highway Family (2022)
This heartwarming family drama marks one of Jung Il-woo’s more recent works. He plays Ki-woo, a father who takes his family on an unconventional journey living at highway rest stops. While exact viewership numbers are not available, the film received positive reviews for its touching story and Jung’s nuanced performance as a struggling but loving father.
9. 49 Days (2011)
Although Jung played a supporting role in this fantasy romance drama, his portrayal of the Scheduler, a grim reaper-like character, left a lasting impression on viewers. The drama was a moderate success, with ratings peaking at 12.8%. Jung’s charismatic and sometimes comical performance as the otherworldly being showcased his ability to bring unique characters to life.
10. Diary of a Night Watchman (2014)
In this historical fantasy romance, Jung Il-woo stars as Lee Rin, a prince with the ability to see ghosts. The drama combines elements of horror, romance, and historical drama, allowing Jung to display his versatility as an actor. Diary of a Night Watchman achieved moderate success, with its highest-rated episode reaching 12.7% viewership. Jung’s portrayal of the conflicted prince who must balance his royal duties with his supernatural abilities was praised by viewers and critics.
