Kim Jung-hyun, born on April 5, 1990, in Busan, South Korea, has become one of the most beloved actors in the Korean entertainment industry. Known for his versatility and captivating performances, Kim has starred in numerous successful dramas and movies throughout his career. As we look at his filmography up to 2025, let’s explore the 10 best Korean dramas and movies featuring this talented actor.
1. Crash Landing on You (2019-2020)
This romantic comedy-drama was a massive hit both in South Korea and internationally. Kim Jung-hyun played the role of Gu Seung-jun, also known as Alberto Gu, a charming con man who adds an interesting twist to the main storyline. His performance in this drama showcased his ability to portray complex characters with depth and charisma.
The story follows a South Korean heiress who accidentally finds herself in North Korea after a paragliding accident. There, she meets a North Korean military officer who tries to help her return home safely. Kim Jung-hyun’s character becomes entangled in their journey, creating both obstacles and unexpected alliances.
2. Mr. Queen (2020-2021)
In this historical fantasy comedy, Kim Jung-hyun took on the challenging role of King Cheoljong. The drama tells the story of a modern-day man whose soul is trapped in the body of a queen from the Joseon Dynasty. Kim’s portrayal of the seemingly weak but secretly clever king was praised by viewers and critics alike.
His chemistry with the lead actress and his ability to balance both comedic and dramatic scenes made this drama a must-watch. The unique plot, combined with Kim’s stellar performance, created a perfect blend of humor, romance, and historical intrigue.
3. School 2017 (2017)
This youth drama was a turning point in Kim Jung-hyun’s career. He played the role of Hyun Tae-woon, a rebellious but misunderstood high school student. The series deals with the pressures and challenges faced by modern-day high school students in South Korea.
Kim’s portrayal of Tae-woon’s growth from a troublemaker to a responsible young adult resonated with many viewers. His performance earned him several award nominations and helped establish him as a rising star in the industry.
4. Welcome to Waikiki (2018)
In this hilarious comedy series, Kim Jung-hyun played Kang Dong-gu, an aspiring film director who runs a guest house with his friends. The show follows the misadventures of the three young men as they try to keep their business afloat while pursuing their dreams.
Kim’s comedic timing and ability to portray the lovable yet often clueless Dong-gu made him a fan favorite. This role demonstrated his versatility as an actor, proving he could excel in light-hearted comedies as well as serious dramas.
5. Time (2018)
Although Kim Jung-hyun had to withdraw from this drama midway due to health issues, his performance as Cheon Soo-ho was still noteworthy. The drama explores themes of redemption and the value of time as Soo-ho, a wealthy man with a terminal illness, tries to make amends for his past mistakes.
Despite its shortened run, Kim’s portrayal of a man racing against time left a lasting impression on viewers. His ability to convey complex emotions and internal struggles shone through in this intense melodrama.
6. A Hundred Memories (2025)
This romantic drama marks Kim Jung-hyun’s return to the small screen in 2025. While details about the plot are still under wraps, early reports suggest that Kim plays a third-generation chaebol attending a prestigious law school in Seoul. The drama is expected to be a heartwarming tale of love and personal growth.
Fans are eagerly anticipating Kim’s chemistry with his co-stars and how he will bring this new character to life. Given his track record of choosing interesting projects, expectations are high for this upcoming drama.
7. Kokdu: Season of Deity (2023)
In this fantasy romance drama, Kim Jung-hyun took on multiple roles as Kokdu, a grim reaper, and his human incarnation, Do Jin-woo. The story revolves around Kokdu, who must live as a human for 49 days every 99 years to punish humans.
Kim’s ability to portray distinct personalities for each of his characters showcased his range as an actor. The drama’s blend of supernatural elements with human emotions provided a perfect platform for Kim to demonstrate his acting prowess.
8. Iron Family (2024)
This drama saw Kim Jung-hyun in the role of Seo Kang-joo. While specific details about the plot and his character are limited, the drama likely explores themes of family bonds and personal growth. Kim’s involvement in the project generated significant buzz among fans and critics alike.
9. Overman (2015)
Although this independent film was one of Kim Jung-hyun’s earlier works, it deserves mention for the recognition it brought him. His performance earned him Best New Actor nominations at prestigious award ceremonies, marking the beginning of his rise in the entertainment industry.
The film likely dealt with coming-of-age themes, allowing Kim to showcase his potential as a leading man early in his career.
10. Rosebud (2019)
In this film, Kim Jung-hyun played the character of Woo-seong. While details about the movie are scarce, it’s included in this list as it represents Kim’s continued efforts to balance his television career with film projects. His willingness to take on diverse roles in both mediums speaks to his dedication to his craft and his desire to grow as an actor.
