Choi Jin-hyuk is a talented South Korean actor who has captured the hearts of many fans with his charming smile and impressive acting skills. With a career spanning over a decade, he has starred in numerous popular Korean dramas and movies. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best Korean dramas and movies featuring Choi Jin-hyuk that you shouldn’t miss!
1. Gu Family Book (2013)
Gu Family Book is a fantasy historical drama that helped Choi Jin-hyuk gain widespread recognition. In this series, he plays Gu Wol-ryung, a mythical creature known as a gumiho (nine-tailed fox) who falls in love with a human woman. The story is filled with romance, action, and supernatural elements that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Choi Jin-hyuk’s portrayal of Gu Wol-ryung is both captivating and heartbreaking. His character goes through a rollercoaster of emotions, from a loving husband to a vengeful spirit. The actor’s ability to convey these complex feelings earned him critical acclaim and several awards.
2. The Heirs (2013)
The Heirs is a popular high school romance drama that features an all-star cast. Choi Jin-hyuk plays Kim Won, the older half-brother of the main character. Although his role is supporting, Choi Jin-hyuk’s performance adds depth to the story and creates an interesting family dynamic.
This drama is perfect for those who enjoy stories about young love, family conflicts, and the struggles of wealthy heirs. Choi Jin-hyuk’s character brings a mature and sometimes conflicted perspective to the youthful drama.
3. Emergency Couple (2014)
In Emergency Couple, Choi Jin-hyuk takes on his first leading role in a miniseries. He plays Oh Chang-min, a doctor who ends up working in the same hospital as his ex-wife. This romantic comedy explores themes of second chances and personal growth.
Choi Jin-hyuk’s chemistry with his co-star Song Ji-hyo is a highlight of the drama. Their bickering and eventual reconciliation make for an entertaining and heartwarming watch. The medical setting also adds an element of excitement to the story.
4. Tunnel (2017)
Tunnel is a thrilling crime drama with a time-travel twist. Choi Jin-hyuk stars as Park Gwang-ho, a detective from 1986 who finds himself transported to 2017 while chasing a serial killer. The actor’s portrayal of a man out of time is both humorous and touching.
This drama combines elements of crime, science fiction, and mystery to create a gripping narrative. Choi Jin-hyuk’s performance as the determined and sometimes bewildered detective is a standout feature of the show.
5. The Last Empress (2018-2019)
The Last Empress is a modern historical drama set in an alternate reality where Korea is a constitutional monarchy. Choi Jin-hyuk plays Na Wang-sik, a bodyguard seeking revenge against the royal family. His character goes undercover as Chun Woo-bin, becoming the emperor’s most trusted guard.
This drama is full of twists, turns, and political intrigue. Choi Jin-hyuk’s portrayal of a man with a hidden agenda adds an extra layer of excitement to the already dramatic plot. His action scenes and emotional moments are equally impressive.
6. Zombie Detective (2020)
In Zombie Detective, Choi Jin-hyuk takes on a unique role as Kim Moo-young, a zombie who becomes a private detective. This comedy-horror series blends humor with mystery as the zombie detective tries to solve cases while hiding his true nature.
Choi Jin-hyuk’s deadpan delivery and physical comedy shine in this role. The actor manages to make a zombie character both funny and oddly endearing. This drama is a must-watch for those who enjoy quirky and unconventional storylines.
7. Mr. Queen (2020-2021)
Although Choi Jin-hyuk only makes a special appearance in Mr. Queen, his role is memorable and crucial to the plot. He plays Jang Bong-hwan, a modern-day chef whose soul becomes trapped in the body of a queen in the Joseon era.
Choi Jin-hyuk’s portrayal of the sassy and confused chef sets the tone for the entire series. His voice acting, as he narrates the thoughts of the queen, adds humor and depth to the main character’s journey. Even in this brief role, Choi Jin-hyuk leaves a lasting impression.
8. Rugal (2020)
Rugal is a science fiction action drama that showcases Choi Jin-hyuk’s versatility as an actor. He plays Kang Ki-beom, a police officer who loses his eyes and family to a criminal organization. After receiving artificial eyes with special abilities, he joins a special team to seek revenge.
This drama allows Choi Jin-hyuk to display his action skills and emotional range. The futuristic setting and high-stakes plot make for an exciting watch, with the actor’s performance driving the story forward.
9. Devilish Joy (2018)
Devilish Joy is a romantic comedy that features Choi Jin-hyuk as Gong Ma-sung, a genius doctor with a unique form of amnesia. His character loses his memory at the end of each day, only to start fresh the next morning. Despite this condition, he falls in love with a former actress played by Song Ha-yoon.
This drama allows Choi Jin-hyuk to show off his romantic side and comedic timing. The unique premise of the show provides plenty of heartwarming and funny moments, with the actor’s charming performance at the center of it all.
10. Pride and Prejudice (2014-2015)
Not to be confused with the Jane Austen novel, this Pride and Prejudice is a legal drama starring Choi Jin-hyuk as Gu Dong-chi, an experienced prosecutor. The story follows a team of prosecutors as they fight against corruption and injustice.
In this drama, Choi Jin-hyuk portrays a more serious and professional character compared to some of his other roles. His performance adds gravitas to the legal proceedings and interpersonal drama that unfolds throughout the series.