While many K-pop idols, including popular idols-turned-actresses like Krystal Jung and Tiffany Young, were born overseas, there are also a handful of K-drama stars who hail from abroad. These actors have not only found success in the highly competitive world of Korean dramas but have also captured the hearts of global audiences with their diverse backgrounds, multilingual skills, and unique charm.
Here are some of the K-Drama stars born overseas who have become major figures in the Korean entertainment industry.
Kim So Hyun [Australia]
Kim So Hyun, known for her roles in popular dramas like “Love Alarm,” “My Lovely Liar,” “Serendipity’s Embrace,” etc., was born in Australia in 1999. At the age of four, she moved to South Korea, and in 2006 she began her career as a child actress in the K-drama industry.
Park Solomon [Uzbekistan]
Park Solomon, who became a heartthrob of K-drama fans with his roles in hit dramas “All of Us Are Dead” and “Revenge of Others,” has a fascinating background. Born in Uzbekistan in 1999 to parents of Koryo-saram descent, he spent his childhood in Russia before relocating to South Korea.
Moon Ga Young [Germany]
Although Moon Ga Young is a household name in the K-drama realm, starring in hits like “True Beauty,” “Welcome to Waikiki 2,” and “The Interest of Love,” many may be surprised to learn that she was born in Karlsruhe, Germany, in 1996 but later moved to South Korea in 2005.
Ko Sung Hee [United States]
Born in Missouri, United States, in 1990, Ko Sung Hee is a talented actress who landed her first leading role in the 2014 fantasy drama “Diary of a Night Watchman.” She went on to star in a range of hit series, including “Miss Korea,” “My Holo Love,” “My Beautiful Bride,” and “Gaus Electronics.”
Han Ye Seul [United States]
Born Leslie Kim in Los Angeles, California, Han Ye Seul grew up in the U.S. and attended Cerritos High School and Cerritos College. She later rose to fame in the K-drama industry, starring in popular series such as “Birth of a Beauty,” “Couple or Trouble,” “Big Issue,” and “Tazza.”
Teo Yoo [Germany]
Born in 1981 in Cologne, Germany, actor Teo Yoo completed his high school education in his hometown. He has showcased his acting prowess through roles in acclaimed films like “Past Lives” and “Vertigo,” as well as popular K-dramas such as “Love to Hate You” and “Vagabond.”
Daniel Henney [United States]
Daniel Phillip Henney, an American actor born in Carson City, Michigan, has made a name for himself in Hollywood. He also became a household name in South Korea with his role in the hit K-drama “My Lovely Sam Soon.”
Lee Philip [United States]
Born in Washington, D.C., United States, in 1981, Lee Philip is a Korean-American actor who is best known for his roles in acclaimed K-drama series such as “The Legend,” “Faith,” and “Secret Garden.”
Do any of your favourite K-drama stars hail from abroad? Comment below!