Jang Dong-gun is one of South Korea’s most famous and talented actors. With a career spanning over three decades, he has starred in many popular dramas and movies. Let’s look at 10 of his best works that you should watch.
1. Arthdal Chronicles (2019-2023)
This epic fantasy drama is set in ancient times. Jang Dong-gun plays Ta-gon, a powerful and ambitious leader. The story is about power struggles and love in a mythical land called Arth.
The show has beautiful scenery and exciting action scenes. It’s like a Korean version of “Game of Thrones.” Jang Dong-gun’s character is complex and interesting. He shows both strength and weakness as he tries to rule Arthdal.
“Arthdal Chronicles” has two seasons. The first one came out in 2019, and the second one in 2023. If you like fantasy stories with politics and romance, you’ll enjoy this show.
2. Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War (2004)
This movie is one of Jang Dong-gun’s most famous works. It’s a war drama set during the Korean War. Jang plays Lee Jin-tae, an older brother who volunteers for dangerous missions to protect his younger brother.
The film shows the sad reality of war and how it affects families. Jang Dong-gun’s acting is very powerful in this movie. He shows the pain and struggle of a man trying to save his brother in a terrible situation.
“Tae Guk Gi” was a big hit in Korea and helped make Jang Dong-gun an even bigger star. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in Korean cinema or war movies.
3. Friend (2001)
“Friend” is a crime drama that was very popular when it came out. Jang Dong-gun plays one of four childhood friends. As they grow up, two become gangsters and two go to college.
The movie shows how their friendships change over time. Jang’s character becomes a powerful gangster. He acts tough but still cares about his old friends.
This film was a big success and helped change Jang Dong-gun’s image. Before this, he was known for romantic roles. “Friend” showed he could play tougher characters too.
4. A Normal Family (2023)
In this recent movie, Jang Dong-gun plays a different kind of role. He’s Jae-gyu, a kind pediatrician who loves his family. But his life changes when he sees his child involved in a crime on CCTV.
The movie looks at how a normal family deals with a big problem. Jang Dong-gun’s acting is very natural in this film. He shows the worry and pain of a father trying to protect his child.
“A Normal Family” is a good choice if you want to see Jang in a more realistic, modern role. It’s different from his action or historical dramas.
5. Suits (2018)
This Korean drama is based on the American TV show of the same name. Jang Dong-gun plays Choi Kang-seok, a talented lawyer who hires a young man with a photographic memory.
In “Suits,” Jang shows his charm and wit. His character is smart, confident, and sometimes funny. The show mixes legal drama with office politics and romance.
If you liked the American “Suits,” you’ll enjoy seeing how the story works in a Korean setting. Jang Dong-gun’s performance is one of the highlights of the show.
6. V.I.P. (2017)
“V.I.P.” is a crime thriller where Jang Dong-gun plays a South Korean intelligence agent. The story is about chasing a North Korean criminal who is protected by his VIP status.
This movie is full of action and suspense. Jang’s character has to deal with complex political situations while trying to catch the bad guy. He shows both toughness and smart thinking in his role.
The film deals with some dark themes and has intense action scenes. It’s a good choice for viewers who like serious, gritty thrillers.
7. The Warrior’s Way (2010)
This movie is special because it’s an international production. Jang Dong-gun plays a skilled Asian warrior who goes to the American West. There, he has to protect a baby and a small town from bad guys.
“The Warrior’s Way” mixes Eastern martial arts with Western cowboy action. Jang Dong-gun speaks English in this movie, which was a new challenge for him. He does a great job showing the quiet strength of his character.
The film has beautiful visuals and exciting fight scenes. It’s interesting to see Jang in a Hollywood-style movie, acting alongside international stars.
8. Typhoon (2005)
In “Typhoon,” Jang Dong-gun plays Sin, a modern-day pirate with a sad past. The movie is about his plan to attack both North and South Korea.
This action thriller shows Jang in a complex role. His character is a bad guy, but we can understand why he became that way. The film has big action scenes and emotional moments.
“Typhoon” was one of the most expensive Korean movies when it was made. It shows Jang Dong-gun’s ability to lead a big-budget action film.
9. Good Morning President (2009)
This movie is different from Jang’s usual action or drama roles. It’s a light-hearted look at three different presidents of South Korea. Jang plays the youngest president in Korean history.
In “Good Morning President,” Jang shows his funny side. His character has to deal with being a new president while also managing his personal life. It’s fun to see him in a more comedic role.
The movie gives an interesting and humorous view of politics. It’s a good choice if you want to see a different side of Jang Dong-gun’s acting.
10. My Way (2011)
“My Way” is a war drama based on a true story. It’s about two men from Korea and Japan who end up fighting in World War II. Jang Dong-gun plays Kim Jun-shik, a Korean man forced to join the Japanese army.
The movie shows how war affects people from different countries. Jang’s character goes through many hardships and changes. His acting helps us understand the pain and confusion of people caught in war.
“My Way” has big battle scenes and emotional moments. It’s a powerful story about survival and unexpected friendships during wartime.
