Cho Jin-woong is a talented South Korean actor known for his versatile performances in both movies and TV shows. With a career spanning over two decades, Cho has become one of the most respected actors in the Korean entertainment industry. Let’s explore 10 of his best works that have captivated audiences worldwide.
1. Signal (2016)
Signal is a thrilling crime drama that showcases Cho Jin-woong’s exceptional acting skills. In this TV series, Cho plays the role of Lee Jae-han, a detective from the past who communicates with a present-day criminal profiler through a mysterious walkie-talkie. Together, they solve cold cases and prevent crimes from happening.
Key points:
- Genre: Crime, Thriller, Fantasy
- Episodes: 16
- Cho’s role: Detective Lee Jae-han
- Awards: Cho won the Top Excellence Award at the 5th APAN Star Awards
Signal received high praise for its gripping storyline and outstanding performances. The show maintained an average viewership rating of 12.5% nationwide, peaking at 14.2% for its final episode. This drama is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and time-travel concepts.
2. The Handmaiden (2016)
The Handmaiden is a critically acclaimed psychological thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook. Cho Jin-woong plays the role of Uncle Kouzuki, a mysterious and sinister character in this intricate tale of deception and forbidden love.
Key points:
- Genre: Psychological Thriller, Romance
- Runtime: 145 minutes
- Cho’s role: Uncle Kouzuki
- Box office: $38.5 million worldwide
This film received international recognition and was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. The Handmaiden showcases Cho’s ability to portray complex and morally ambiguous characters, adding depth to the film’s already rich narrative.
3. A Hard Day (2014)
A Hard Day is an action-packed thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Cho Jin-woong plays the antagonist, Park Chang-min, a corrupt police officer who blackmails the main character. His performance as the villain is both chilling and captivating.
Key points:
- Genre: Action, Thriller
- Runtime: 111 minutes
- Cho’s role: Park Chang-min
- Awards: Cho won Best Supporting Actor at the 35th Blue Dragon Film Awards
The film was a commercial success, selling over 3.4 million tickets in South Korea. Cho’s portrayal of the antagonist received widespread acclaim, cementing his status as a versatile actor capable of taking on challenging roles.
4. Believer (2018)
Believer is a gripping crime action film where Cho Jin-woong takes on the lead role of Won-ho, a determined detective on a mission to bring down a drug cartel. This movie showcases Cho’s ability to carry a film as the main protagonist.
Key points:
- Genre: Crime, Action
- Runtime: 123 minutes
- Cho’s role: Detective Won-ho
- Box office: $33.6 million in South Korea
The film was a commercial success, attracting over 5 million viewers in South Korea. Cho’s performance as the relentless detective Won-ho was praised for its intensity and emotional depth, proving his capability as a leading man in action-packed roles.
5. The Spy Gone North (2018)
In The Spy Gone North, Cho Jin-woong plays Choi Hak-sung, the head of the National Intelligence Service’s overseas division. This espionage thriller is based on real events and showcases Cho’s ability to bring historical figures to life on screen.
Key points:
- Genre: Spy, Drama
- Runtime: 137 minutes
- Cho’s role: Choi Hak-sung
- Box office: $48.1 million worldwide
The film premiered at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival and received positive reviews for its tense storytelling and strong performances. Cho’s portrayal of the intelligence officer adds gravitas to the film, contributing to its critical and commercial success.
6. Intimate Strangers (2018)
Intimate Strangers is a comedy-drama that puts Cho Jin-woong’s versatility on display. In this remake of the Italian film “Perfect Strangers,” Cho plays Seok-ho, one of a group of friends who decide to play a dangerous game at a dinner party.
Key points:
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Runtime: 115 minutes
- Cho’s role: Seok-ho
- Box office: $30.8 million in South Korea
The film was a hit in South Korea, attracting over 5 million viewers. Cho’s performance in this ensemble cast showcases his ability to blend seamlessly into comedic roles while maintaining the depth and complexity his characters are known for.
7. Black Money (2019)
In Black Money, Cho Jin-woong takes on the role of Yang Min-hyuk, a prosecutor investigating a major financial scandal. This crime drama highlights Cho’s talent for portraying determined and principled characters.
Key points:
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Runtime: 113 minutes
- Cho’s role: Prosecutor Yang Min-hyuk
- Box office: $15.6 million in South Korea
The film tackles the complex world of financial crimes and corporate corruption. Cho’s performance as the tenacious prosecutor adds credibility and emotional weight to the story, making it a compelling watch for fans of investigative dramas.
8. Me and Me (2020)
Me and Me is a unique mystery drama that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. Cho Jin-woong plays Park Hyeong-gu, a detective investigating a strange case in a rural village, only to find himself trapped in an inexplicable situation.
Key points:
- Genre: Mystery, Drama
- Runtime: 104 minutes
- Cho’s role: Detective Park Hyeong-gu
- Awards: Cho won Best Actor at the 21st Busan Film Critics Awards
This mind-bending film showcases Cho’s ability to carry a complex narrative almost single-handedly. His nuanced performance brings depth to the character’s confusion and determination, making the film a unique entry in his filmography.
9. The Devil’s Deal (2023)
The Devil’s Deal is a political crime drama that sees Cho Jin-woong in the role of Jeon Hae-woong, an ambitious politician caught in a web of corruption and power struggles. This film highlights Cho’s skill in portraying morally complex characters.
Key points:
- Genre: Crime, Political Drama
- Runtime: 132 minutes
- Cho’s role: Jeon Hae-woong
- Box office: $12.3 million in South Korea
The film offers a gritty look at the world of politics and organized crime. Cho’s performance as the conflicted politician Hae-woong adds layers of complexity to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking watch for audiences.
10. No Way Out: The Roulette (2024)
No Way Out: The Roulette is a thrilling TV series that showcases Cho Jin-woong’s talent in long-form storytelling. In this drama, Cho plays Baek Joong-sik, a character caught in a dangerous game of survival and deception.
Key points:
- Genre: Thriller, Drama
- Episodes: 16
- Cho’s role: Baek Joong-sik
- Viewership rating: Average 11.8% nationwide
This series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its intense plot twists and character developments. Cho’s performance as Joong-sik is praised for its emotional depth and complexity, proving once again his ability to captivate audiences in television dramas.
