Won Bin is one of South Korea’s most beloved actors, known for his incredible talent and striking good looks. Despite his limited filmography, he has left a lasting impact on the Korean entertainment industry. As of 2025, Won Bin’s work continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Let’s explore the 10 best Korean dramas and movies starring this iconic actor.
1. The Man from Nowhere (2010)
“The Man from Nowhere” is widely regarded as Won Bin’s most impressive performance. In this action-thriller, he plays Cha Tae-sik, a quiet pawnshop owner with a mysterious past. When his young neighbor is kidnapped, Tae-sik embarks on a violent mission to save her.
This movie showcases Won Bin’s versatility as an actor. He portrays Tae-sik with a perfect balance of emotional depth and physical prowess. The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed, while the emotional moments are touching and genuine.
“The Man from Nowhere” was a massive hit in South Korea and gained international recognition. It remains a fan favorite and a must-watch for anyone interested in Korean cinema.
2. Mother (2009)
Directed by the acclaimed Bong Joon-ho, “Mother” is a gripping mystery-thriller that showcases Won Bin in a very different role. He plays Do-joon, a young man with an intellectual disability who becomes the prime suspect in a murder case.
Won Bin’s portrayal of Do-joon is both sensitive and nuanced. He perfectly captures the character’s innocence and vulnerability, making the audience sympathize with him throughout the film. His chemistry with veteran actress Kim Hye-ja, who plays his mother, is particularly noteworthy.
“Mother” received critical acclaim worldwide and is considered one of the best Korean films of all time. Won Bin’s performance in this movie further cemented his status as a versatile and talented actor.
3. Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War (2004)
Set during the Korean War, “Taegukgi” tells the heartbreaking story of two brothers forced to fight. Won Bin plays the younger brother, Lee Jin-seok, opposite Jang Dong-gun as the older brother.
This war epic showcases Won Bin’s ability to portray deep emotions. His character’s journey from an innocent young man to a battle-hardened soldier is both believable and moving. The bond between the brothers forms the emotional core of the film, and Won Bin’s chemistry with Jang Dong-gun is palpable.
“Taegukgi” was a massive box office success and is often cited as one of the best Korean war films ever made. It remains a powerful testament to Won Bin’s acting skills.
4. My Brother (2004)
In “My Brother,” Won Bin plays Kim Jong-hyun, a tough high school student who struggles to get along with his older brother. This coming-of-age drama explores themes of family, rivalry, and personal growth.
Won Bin’s portrayal of Jong-hyun is both charismatic and complex. He effectively conveys the character’s inner turmoil and gradual maturation. The film allows Won Bin to showcase his range as an actor, from intense confrontations to tender moments of reconciliation.
While not as internationally renowned as some of his other works, “My Brother” is a touching drama that highlights Won Bin’s ability to carry a film with his emotional performance.
5. Autumn in My Heart (2000)
This classic Korean drama catapulted Won Bin to stardom. “Autumn in My Heart” tells a tragic love story involving childhood friends separated by fate. Won Bin plays Han Tae-seok, a kind-hearted young man who falls in love with the female lead.
Although Won Bin’s role is supporting, his performance is memorable and impactful. He brings warmth and sincerity to Tae-seok, making him a fan-favorite character. This drama showcases Won Bin’s ability to shine even in a ensemble cast.
“Autumn in My Heart” is considered a pioneer of the Korean Wave and remains beloved by fans of Korean dramas. It’s a must-watch for those interested in Won Bin’s earlier work and the evolution of Korean television.
6. Guns & Talks (2001)
In this quirky action-comedy, Won Bin plays Ha-yoon, the youngest member of a group of professional assassins. “Guns & Talks” allows Won Bin to show off his comedic timing and charm.
As Ha-yoon, Won Bin portrays a tech-savvy, somewhat naive young man caught up in the dangerous world of contract killing. His performance adds lightness and humor to the film, balancing out the more serious moments.
While “Guns & Talks” may not be as well-known as some of Won Bin’s later works, it’s an entertaining film that showcases a different side of his acting abilities.
7. Friends (2002)
“Friends” is a unique entry in Won Bin’s filmography. It’s a Japanese-Korean co-production, where Won Bin plays Kim Ji-hoon, a Korean student who forms a connection with a Japanese tourist in Hong Kong.
This drama allows Won Bin to showcase his romantic lead capabilities. His portrayal of Ji-hoon is charming and relatable, capturing the excitement and uncertainty of a cross-cultural romance.
While “Friends” may be harder to find than some of Won Bin’s other works, it’s worth seeking out for fans interested in seeing him in a pure romance role.
8. Ready Go! (1997)
“Ready Go!” marks one of Won Bin’s earliest appearances on screen. This youth-oriented drama series was one of his first steps into the entertainment industry.
While Won Bin’s role in “Ready Go!” is small, it’s interesting for fans to see where he started. Even in this early work, his natural charisma and screen presence are evident.
For those interested in tracing Won Bin’s career from the beginning, “Ready Go!” offers a glimpse of the star in the making.
9. Propose (1997)
“Propose” is another early work in Won Bin’s career. This romantic drama film features Won Bin in a supporting role, but it marks his official film debut.
While Won Bin’s part in “Propose” is minor, it’s significant as his first appearance in a feature film. It’s a starting point that would lead to his later success in both television and cinema.
For completists and dedicated fans, “Propose” is an interesting look at the very beginning of Won Bin’s journey in the entertainment industry.
10. Jump (1999)
“Jump” is a television series that features Won Bin in one of his early leading roles. While information about this series is limited, it represents an important step in Won Bin’s career as he transitioned from supporting to main roles.
This drama helped establish Won Bin as a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry. It showcases his growing confidence as an actor and his ability to carry a series.
While “Jump” may be difficult to find today, it holds a special place in Won Bin’s filmography as one of his first starring roles on television.
