Kim Yoon-seok is one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile actors. With a career spanning over three decades, he has delivered many memorable performances in both films and TV dramas. As of 2025, Kim Yoon-seok continues to captivate audiences with his powerful acting skills and charismatic screen presence. Let’s take a look at 10 of the best Korean dramas and movies starring this incredible actor.
1. The Chaser (2008)
“The Chaser” is the film that catapulted Kim Yoon-seok to stardom. In this gripping thriller, he plays Eom Joong-ho, a former detective turned pimp who is trying to track down a serial killer targeting his call girls. Kim’s portrayal of the morally ambiguous yet determined protagonist earned him widespread acclaim and multiple awards. The film’s intense cat-and-mouse game and Kim’s powerful performance make it a must-watch for any fan of Korean cinema.
2. The Yellow Sea (2010)
In “The Yellow Sea,” Kim Yoon-seok reunites with his “The Chaser” co-star Ha Jung-woo for another thrilling crime drama. Kim plays Myun Jung-hak, a ruthless gangster involved in a complex web of violence and betrayal. The film showcases Kim’s ability to portray menacing characters with depth and nuance. With its gritty action sequences and compelling storyline, “The Yellow Sea” is a testament to Kim’s versatility as an actor.
3. The Thieves (2012)
“The Thieves” is a star-studded heist film that became one of the highest-grossing Korean movies of all time. Kim Yoon-seok plays Macao Park, the mastermind behind an elaborate plan to steal a valuable diamond. His charismatic performance as the cunning and mysterious leader of the thieves adds depth to this entertaining and action-packed movie. The film’s success further cemented Kim’s status as a leading actor in the Korean film industry.
4. Sea Fog (2014)
In this intense maritime thriller, Kim Yoon-seok takes on the role of Captain Cheol-joo, the leader of a fishing boat crew involved in smuggling illegal immigrants. “Sea Fog” showcases Kim’s ability to portray complex characters faced with moral dilemmas. His nuanced performance as a man torn between duty and conscience adds emotional weight to this gripping story based on true events.
5. The Priests (2015)
“The Priests” marks Kim Yoon-seok’s foray into the supernatural thriller genre. He plays Father Kim, an experienced exorcist who teams up with a younger priest to save a possessed girl. Kim’s portrayal of the world-weary but determined exorcist brings gravitas to this chilling and atmospheric film. His chemistry with co-star Gang Dong-won helps make “The Priests” a standout entry in Korean horror cinema.
6. 1987: When the Day Comes (2017)
This powerful historical drama focuses on the events leading up to South Korea’s June Democratic Uprising in 1987. Kim Yoon-seok plays Park Cheo-won, a high-ranking government official involved in covering up the death of a student activist. Kim’s nuanced portrayal of a conflicted antagonist adds depth to this important film about a crucial moment in Korean history. His performance helps bring this turbulent period to life for modern audiences.
7. Dark Figure of Crime (2018)
In “Dark Figure of Crime,” Kim Yoon-seok plays detective Kim Hyung-min, who becomes obsessed with solving a series of unreported murders. Based on true events, this crime thriller showcases Kim’s ability to carry a film as the lead protagonist. His portrayal of the determined detective’s psychological struggle as he delves deeper into the case is both compelling and emotionally resonant.
8. Another Child (2019)
“Another Child” marks Kim Yoon-seok’s directorial debut, in which he also plays a supporting role as Dae-won. This family drama explores the complex relationships between two families after an affair is discovered. Kim’s sensitive direction and understated performance demonstrate his growth as an artist beyond acting. The film’s success shows Kim’s potential as a filmmaker in addition to his acting prowess.
9. Escape from Mogadishu (2021)
Set during the Somali Civil War in 1991, “Escape from Mogadishu” tells the true story of South and North Korean diplomats working together to escape the conflict. Kim Yoon-seok plays Han Sin-seong, the South Korean ambassador to Somalia. His portrayal of a man trying to navigate a dangerous political situation while protecting his staff adds tension and emotional depth to this thrilling historical drama.
10. The Frog (2024)
In this recent TV drama, Kim Yoon-seok takes on the role of Jeon Young-ha, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences on the small screen as well as in films. While details about the series are limited, Kim’s involvement alone makes it a noteworthy addition to his impressive body of work. “The Frog” demonstrates Kim’s continued relevance and popularity in the Korean entertainment industry well into 2025.
