Im Joo-hwan has become one of South Korea’s most beloved actors, known for his versatile performances and charming screen presence. As we look back on his career up to 2025, let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies that showcase Im Joo-hwan’s incredible talent and range as an actor.
1. The Haunted Palace (2025)
Im Joo-hwan stars in this highly anticipated fantasy romance drama set in the Joseon era. The story follows a royal inspector who becomes possessed by an evil spirit and the shaman’s granddaughter tasked with saving him. Im Joo-hwan’s portrayal of the conflicted inspector showcases his ability to balance intense emotional scenes with lighter romantic moments. The drama’s stunning period costumes and sets transport viewers to a magical version of historical Korea.
2. Three Bold Siblings (2022-2023)
This heartwarming family drama features Im Joo-hwan as Lee Sang-joon, an A-list actor who is the eldest son of his family. When an unexpected accident brings him back to his hometown, he reunites with his first love and rediscovers the importance of family bonds. Im Joo-hwan’s nuanced performance as a celebrity struggling with personal relationships earned him praise from critics and viewers alike.
3. The Spies Who Loved Me (2020)
In this thrilling romantic comedy, Im Joo-hwan plays Derek Hyun, an industrial spy married to a wedding dress designer who doesn’t know his true identity. The story takes unexpected turns as his wife’s ex-husband, an Interpol agent, becomes involved in their lives. Im Joo-hwan perfectly captures the duality of his character, switching seamlessly between a loving husband and a skilled spy.
4. The Game: Towards Zero (2020)
This gripping mystery thriller stars Im Joo-hwan as Goo Do-kyung, a detective with the ability to see the moment before a person’s death when he looks into their eyes. As he works to solve a series of murders, he uncovers dark secrets from his own past. Im Joo-hwan’s intense and emotional performance keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the series.
5. The Bride of Habaek (2017)
Based on a popular Korean manhwa, this fantasy romance drama features Im Joo-hwan as Shin Hoo-ye, a seemingly kind CEO with a hidden dark side. As the story unfolds, we learn about Hoo-ye’s mysterious past and his connection to the world of gods. Im Joo-hwan’s portrayal of this complex character showcases his ability to play morally ambiguous roles with depth and nuance.
6. Uncontrollably Fond (2016)
In this emotional melodrama, Im Joo-hwan takes on the role of Choi Ji-tae, a prosecutor caught between his sense of justice and his family’s expectations. As the childhood friend of the main characters, Ji-tae becomes entangled in a web of love, betrayal, and hidden truths. Im Joo-hwan’s subtle yet powerful performance adds layers of complexity to the story.
7. Oh My Ghost (2015)
This supernatural romantic comedy features Im Joo-hwan as Choi Sung-jae, a kind-hearted police officer with a dark secret. As the story unfolds, we discover the tragic connection between Sung-jae and the ghost possessing the main character. Im Joo-hwan’s ability to switch between a gentle persona and a menacing presence keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
8. Shine or Go Crazy (2015)
Set in the Goryeo Dynasty, this historical romance drama stars Im Joo-hwan as Wang Wook, a prince caught between his duty to the throne and his growing feelings for a mysterious woman. Im Joo-hwan’s portrayal of the conflicted prince showcases his talent for bringing depth to historical characters, making them relatable to modern audiences.
9. The Con Artists (2014)
In this thrilling heist movie, Im Joo-hwan plays a skilled safe-cracker who teams up with other experts to pull off a daring robbery. The film’s fast-paced action and clever plot twists allow Im Joo-hwan to show off his versatility as an actor, balancing tense moments with touches of humor and charm.
10. Ugly Alert (2013)
This heartwarming family drama stars Im Joo-hwan as Gong Joon-soo, a kind-hearted young man who overcomes a difficult childhood to become a successful pastry chef. As he navigates family relationships and romantic entanglements, Joon-soo learns valuable lessons about love and forgiveness. Im Joo-hwan’s sincere and emotional performance makes this character truly unforgettable.
