Oh Dal-su is a talented South Korean actor known for his versatile performances in both movies and TV shows. With a career spanning over 35 years, Oh has become a familiar face in Korean entertainment. Let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies featuring Oh Dal-su, showcasing his impressive acting skills and the variety of roles he has played.
1. Squid Game (Season 2 and 3)
Oh Dal-su joined the cast of the globally popular series “Squid Game” in its second season, which aired in 2024. He played the role of Captain Park, a supporting character that added depth to the thrilling story. The show’s success continued into its third season in 2025, with Oh reprising his role. “Squid Game” is a must-watch for anyone interested in intense, suspenseful dramas with social commentary.
2. Oldboy (2003)
Although released over two decades ago, “Oldboy” remains a classic in Korean cinema. Oh Dal-su played Park Cheol-woong, the owner of a private prison. His performance in this dark and twisted tale of revenge helped establish him as a notable character actor. The film’s unique story and striking visuals make it a standout in Oh’s career.
3. The Thieves (2012)
In this high-stakes heist movie, Oh Dal-su took on the role of Andrew, a Chinese-Korean conman. “The Thieves” is an exciting action-comedy that showcases Oh’s ability to blend humor with tension. The film’s international setting and star-studded cast make it an entertaining watch for audiences of all backgrounds.
4. Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2013)
Oh Dal-su played So Yang-ho, a sympathetic inmate, in this heartwarming and emotional film. “Miracle in Cell No. 7” tells the story of a mentally challenged man wrongfully imprisoned for murder, and the relationships he forms with his fellow inmates. Oh’s performance adds depth and humor to this touching tale that balances comedy and drama.
5. Ode to My Father (2014)
This historical drama follows the life of an ordinary man against the backdrop of modern Korean history. Oh Dal-su portrayed Chin Dal-gu, delivering a performance that earned him both a Grand Bell Award and a Blue Dragon Film Award. “Ode to My Father” offers viewers a glimpse into Korea’s past through a personal and emotional story.
6. The Host (2006)
While Oh Dal-su doesn’t appear on screen in “The Host,” his voice acting as the monster adds a unique element to this creature feature. The film blends horror, comedy, and family drama as it follows a family’s struggle against a mysterious river monster. Oh’s voice work contributes to the creature’s menacing presence throughout the movie.
7. Detective K: Secret of the Living Dead (2018)
Oh Dal-su reprised his role as Han Seo-pil in this third installment of the “Detective K” series. These period mystery comedies follow the adventures of a Joseon-era detective. Oh’s character adds humor and support to the main detective’s investigations. The film offers a fun mix of historical setting, comedy, and mystery-solving.
8. Assassination (2015)
Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea, “Assassination” is an action-packed period drama. Oh Dal-su had a supporting role as an old man, demonstrating his ability to portray characters of various ages. The film’s blend of history, action, and drama makes it an engaging watch for those interested in Korean historical films.
9. Tunnel (2016)
In this disaster thriller, Oh Dal-su played Kim Dae-kyung, one of the main characters. “Tunnel” tells the story of a man trapped in a collapsed tunnel and the rescue efforts to save him. Oh’s performance adds emotional depth to this tense and claustrophobic film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
10. Big Bet (2022-2023)
Oh Dal-su appeared in both seasons of the TV series “Big Bet,” playing Lee Joon-goo. The show revolves around a man who becomes a casino mogul in the Philippines but faces numerous challenges. Oh’s character, the president of the Korean club, adds intrigue to this crime drama series that explores the world of high-stakes gambling.
