Kim Myung-min is one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile actors. With a career spanning over two decades, he has impressed audiences with his powerful performances in both TV dramas and films. As we look back at his impressive body of work in 2025, let’s explore 10 of the best Korean dramas and movies starring Kim Myung-min that have captivated viewers around the world.
1. Six Flying Dragons (2015-2016)
This epic historical drama is widely considered one of Kim Myung-min’s greatest performances. Set in the late Goryeo dynasty and early Joseon dynasty, the series tells the story of six ambitious figures who helped establish the Joseon dynasty. Kim Myung-min plays the role of Jeong Do-jeon, a real-life historical figure who was instrumental in founding Joseon.
The drama showcases Kim’s ability to portray complex historical characters with depth and nuance. His portrayal of Jeong Do-jeon as a brilliant strategist and visionary leader earned him critical acclaim. The series is known for its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and stellar performances from the entire cast.
2. Beethoven Virus (2008)
In this popular musical drama, Kim Myung-min stars as Kang Mae, a world-renowned orchestra conductor with a prickly personality. When he returns to Korea to lead a local orchestra, he must work with a group of amateur musicians to keep the orchestra together.
Kim’s portrayal of the temperamental but passionate conductor was a career-defining role. He learned to conduct and mime playing instruments for the part, showcasing his dedication to his craft. The drama explores themes of music, ambition, and personal growth, with Kim’s character at the center of it all.
3. White Tower (2007)
This medical drama was a turning point in Kim Myung-min’s career, cementing his status as a top actor in Korea. He plays Jang Joon-hyuk, an ambitious surgeon vying for the position of chief surgeon at a prestigious hospital.
The drama offers a gritty, realistic look at hospital politics and the ethical dilemmas faced by doctors. Kim’s nuanced performance as the complex and morally ambiguous Jang Joon-hyuk earned him multiple awards and critical praise.
4. Closer to Heaven (2009)
In this touching film, Kim Myung-min plays Baek Jong-woo, a man suffering from Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). The movie follows his relationship with Lee Ji-soo (played by Ha Ji-won), a funeral director who becomes his caregiver and eventually his wife.
Kim’s portrayal of a man slowly losing control of his body is both heartbreaking and inspiring. He underwent a dramatic physical transformation for the role, losing a significant amount of weight to accurately depict the effects of the disease. The film is a poignant exploration of love, mortality, and the human spirit.
5. Law School (2021)
This legal drama sees Kim Myung-min in the role of Yang Jong-hoon, a tough but brilliant criminal law professor at a prestigious law school. When a murder occurs on campus, Professor Yang and his students become entangled in the investigation.
Kim brings gravitas and intensity to his role as the stern professor with a mysterious past. The drama is known for its intricate plot, exploration of legal ethics, and the dynamic between Kim’s character and his students.
6. The King of Dramas (2012-2013)
In this satirical look at the Korean entertainment industry, Kim Myung-min plays Anthony Kim, a ruthless drama production company CEO. The series follows his attempts to create a hit drama while navigating the cutthroat world of television production.
Kim’s portrayal of the arrogant but charismatic Anthony is both funny and compelling. The drama offers an insider’s view of the Korean drama industry, with plenty of humor and heart. Kim’s chemistry with his co-stars and his character’s gradual transformation make this a must-watch for fans of behind-the-scenes stories.
7. Monstrum (2018)
This period action film combines historical drama with monster movie thrills. Set in the Joseon era, Kim Myung-min plays Yoon-gyeom, a loyal subject of King Jungjong who is tasked with hunting down a mysterious creature terrorizing the capital.
The movie showcases Kim’s action chops as well as his dramatic skills. As Yoon-gyeom uncovers a conspiracy behind the monster attacks, Kim delivers a performance that balances intensity with emotional depth. The film is praised for its exciting action sequences and its exploration of political intrigue in historical Korea.
8. Detective K: Secret of the Living Dead (2018)
In this third installment of the popular Detective K film series, Kim Myung-min reprises his role as Kim Min, the brilliant but eccentric detective in Joseon-era Korea. This time, Detective K investigates a series of mysterious deaths that may be linked to vampires.
The film combines historical mystery with comedy and supernatural elements. Kim’s portrayal of the quirky detective is both funny and charismatic. His comic timing and chemistry with his co-stars make this an entertaining romp through historical Korea with a supernatural twist.
9. Miracle That We Met (2018)
This fantasy drama features Kim Myung-min in a dual role as two men named Song Hyun-chul who were born on the same day. When their souls are switched after an accident, Kim must portray both characters as they navigate each other’s lives.
The drama allows Kim to showcase his versatility as an actor, playing two distinct personalities. It’s a heartwarming story about family, identity, and second chances, with Kim’s performances at the center of the emotional journey.
10. The Haunted Palace (2025)
In this new fantasy romance drama set to air in April 2025, Kim Myung-min plays Yoon Gap, a royal inspector in Joseon-era Korea. The story follows Yoon Gap’s reunion with his first love, Yeo-ri, the granddaughter of a shaman. When Yoon Gap becomes possessed by an evil spirit, Yeo-ri must find a way to save him.
While the drama hasn’t aired yet, early buzz suggests that Kim’s portrayal of the conflicted Yoon Gap will be another standout performance in his career. The combination of historical setting, supernatural elements, and romance promises to be an exciting new chapter in Kim Myung-min’s filmography.
