Gong Yoo is a beloved South Korean actor who has captivated audiences worldwide with his incredible talent and charm. From heart-warming romances to thrilling action films, Gong Yoo has showcased his versatility in a wide range of roles. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best Korean dramas and movies starring Gong Yoo that you simply must watch.
1. Goblin: The Lonely and Great God
A Fantasy Romance Like No Other
“Goblin” is a magical TV show that tells the story of Kim Shin, a 939-year-old immortal goblin played by Gong Yoo. This fantasy romance series became a huge hit when it aired in 2016.
In the show, Kim Shin is searching for his human bride, the only person who can end his immortal life. Along the way, he meets a bright and cheerful high school student named Ji Eun-tak, played by Kim Go-eun. Their story is filled with love, sacrifice, and beautiful moments that will make you laugh and cry.
Gong Yoo’s performance as the charming and sometimes lonely goblin is truly amazing. He perfectly captures the character’s wisdom from living for centuries, as well as his longing for love and a normal life. The show’s stunning visuals, touching story, and great acting make it a must-watch for any K-drama fan.
2. Train to Busan
A Thrilling Zombie Adventure
If you like exciting movies with lots of action, “Train to Busan” is perfect for you. This movie, which came out in 2016, quickly became famous all over the world. It’s not just a regular zombie movie – it’s also a touching story about a father and daughter.
Gong Yoo plays Seok-woo, a busy businessman who is taking his young daughter to visit her mother in Busan. Their train ride turns into a nightmare when a zombie outbreak happens. Seok-woo must protect his daughter and other passengers as they try to survive the journey.
The movie is full of heart-pounding moments and amazing action scenes. But what makes it special is how it shows the characters growing and changing as they face danger. Gong Yoo’s acting as a father who learns to be brave and caring is really powerful. “Train to Busan” is an exciting movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
3. Coffee Prince
A Sweet Romance with a Twist
“Coffee Prince” is a fun and sweet romantic comedy that helped make Gong Yoo famous. The show aired in 2007 and is still loved by many fans today.
In this drama, Gong Yoo plays Choi Han-gyul, the heir to a big food company. To avoid getting married, he pretends to be gay. He hires Go Eun-chan (played by Yoon Eun-hye) to act as his boyfriend, not knowing that Eun-chan is actually a girl disguised as a boy. As they work together at a coffee shop, feelings start to grow between them, leading to funny and touching moments.
Gong Yoo’s charming performance as the confused and eventually love-struck Han-gyul won the hearts of viewers. The show deals with themes of identity and love in a light-hearted way. “Coffee Prince” is a classic K-drama that shows why Gong Yoo became such a popular actor.
4. Silenced
A Powerful Drama Based on True Events
“Silenced” is a more serious movie that shows Gong Yoo’s ability to take on challenging roles. Released in 2011, this film is based on real events and tackles some difficult topics.
Gong Yoo plays Kang In-ho, a new teacher at a school for deaf children. He discovers that the students are being mistreated and abused. In-ho decides to fight for justice for these children who cannot speak for themselves.
This movie is not easy to watch, but it’s very important. Gong Yoo’s performance is deeply moving, showing the determination and compassion of his character. “Silenced” had a big impact in South Korea, even leading to changes in laws to better protect children and people with disabilities.
5. The Age of Shadows
A Thrilling Historical Spy Drama
Set in the 1920s during Japan’s occupation of Korea, “The Age of Shadows” is an exciting spy movie that came out in 2016. Gong Yoo plays Kim Woo-jin, a brave member of the Korean independence movement.
The movie follows a complex cat-and-mouse game between Korean resistance fighters and Japanese police. Gong Yoo’s character must navigate dangerous situations and difficult choices as he works to help his country.
With its mix of action, suspense, and historical drama, “The Age of Shadows” is a thrilling watch. Gong Yoo’s performance adds depth to the movie, showing the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for Korea’s freedom.
6. Big
A Heartwarming Body-Swap Comedy
“Big” is a fun and touching TV series from 2012 that puts a new spin on the body-swap story. Gong Yoo plays Seo Yoon-jae, a doctor whose body is taken over by the spirit of a high school student named Kang Kyung-joon.
The show follows the funny and sometimes awkward situations that arise as Kyung-joon, in Yoon-jae’s adult body, tries to navigate grown-up life. Things get even more complicated when he starts to fall for Yoon-jae’s fiancée, who doesn’t know about the body swap.
Gong Yoo does an amazing job playing two very different characters – the serious doctor and the playful teenager. His ability to switch between these personalities shows just how talented he is as an actor. “Big” is a lighthearted and sweet drama that will make you smile.
7. The Silent Sea
A Sci-Fi Adventure on the Moon
If you like science fiction, “The Silent Sea” is a must-watch. This Netflix series from 2021 takes place in a future where Earth is suffering from a terrible drought. Gong Yoo plays Han Yoon-jae, the leader of a dangerous mission to the moon.
The team must travel to an abandoned lunar base to retrieve a mysterious sample that might save humanity. But as they explore the silent, empty station, they uncover dark secrets and face unexpected dangers.
Gong Yoo’s performance as the calm and determined captain adds weight to this tense sci-fi thriller. “The Silent Sea” combines exciting space adventure with deeper questions about science, survival, and what it means to be human.
8. A Man and a Woman
A Touching Romance in a Winter Wonderland
“A Man and a Woman” is a beautiful and emotional love story set in the snowy landscapes of Finland. Released in 2016, this movie stars Gong Yoo as Ki-hong, a man who forms a deep connection with Sang-min (played by Jeon Do-yeon) while they are both far from home.
The film explores the complex feelings of two people who find unexpected love and comfort in each other, despite having families waiting for them back in Korea. The stunning winter scenery provides a perfect backdrop for this tender and sometimes bittersweet romance.
Gong Yoo’s subtle and heartfelt performance helps make this movie a touching exploration of love, loneliness, and the choices we make in life. “A Man and a Woman” is a more mature and reflective film that showcases Gong Yoo’s range as an actor.
9. The Suspect
An Action-Packed Thriller
For fans of high-energy action movies, “The Suspect” is an exciting ride from start to finish. Released in 2013, this film stars Gong Yoo as Ji Dong-chul, a former North Korean special agent now living in the South.
When Dong-chul is framed for murder, he must use all his skills to clear his name and uncover a dangerous conspiracy. The movie is filled with intense fight scenes and thrilling chases, with Gong Yoo performing many of his own stunts.
Beyond the action, Gong Yoo brings depth to his character, showing the pain and determination of a man fighting for the truth and for a chance at a new life. “The Suspect” proves that Gong Yoo can hold his own as an action star while still delivering a compelling performance.
10. Squid Game
A Small But Memorable Appearance
While not a starring role, Gong Yoo’s appearance in the global hit series “Squid Game” deserves mention. In this dark and gripping show about a deadly competition, Gong Yoo plays a mysterious man who recruits desperate people to join the game.
Even though he’s only in the show for a short time, Gong Yoo makes a big impact. His character is charming but unsettling, leaving viewers with questions about his true role in the sinister game.
This cameo appearance shows Gong Yoo’s star power – even in a brief role, he captures the audience’s attention and adds to the mystery of the show. It also introduced him to a whole new group of international fans who may not have seen his work before.