Kim Soo Hyun's Best TV Shows: Must-Watch Korean Dramas

Hey guys! If you're looking for some seriously binge-worthy Korean dramas, you absolutely have to check out the TV shows featuring the one and only Kim Soo Hyun. This dude is a legend in the K-drama world, and for good reason. His acting skills are insane, his choices in roles are always interesting, and let's be real, he's super charismatic. So, let's dive into some of his best TV shows that you definitely need to add to your watchlist!

Dream High (2011)

Let's kick things off with a classic! Dream High marked an early milestone in Kim Soo Hyun's career, showcasing his versatility and potential as a leading actor. In this musical drama, he plays Song Sam Dong, a country bumpkin with a hidden musical talent who attends Kirin High School, an institution renowned for nurturing future K-pop idols. Initially, Sam Dong is portrayed as naive and somewhat awkward, completely out of his depth in the competitive world of performing arts. However, as the series progresses, his passion for music ignites, and he undergoes a remarkable transformation. Kim Soo Hyun's portrayal captures the essence of Sam Dong's journey, from his initial struggles and insecurities to his eventual triumph as a gifted musician. The drama follows Sam Dong and his classmates as they navigate the challenges of rigorous training, fierce rivalries, and personal sacrifices in their pursuit of stardom. Along the way, they form deep bonds of friendship, experience heartbreaks, and learn valuable lessons about perseverance and self-discovery. Kim Soo Hyun's performance in Dream High not only highlighted his acting prowess but also showcased his singing and dancing abilities, solidifying his status as a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry. The series' catchy musical numbers, coupled with its engaging storyline and relatable characters, resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a massive hit both domestically and internationally. If you are a fan of dramas that combine music, dance, and personal growth, Dream High is an absolute must-watch. Plus, it’s a great way to see how far Kim Soo Hyun has come since his early days!

Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)

Next up, we have Moon Embracing the Sun, a historical fantasy drama that catapulted Kim Soo Hyun to superstardom. Set in a fictionalized Joseon Dynasty, the series tells the tale of a forbidden romance between King Lee Hwon (played by Kim Soo Hyun) and a female shaman named Wol (Han Ga In). As a young crown prince, Lee Hwon is betrothed to Heo Yeon Woo, a noblewoman whom he deeply loves. However, their happiness is short-lived when Yeon Woo becomes entangled in a treacherous conspiracy orchestrated by rival factions within the royal court. Falsely accused of treason and afflicted with a mysterious illness, Yeon Woo is presumed dead, leaving Lee Hwon heartbroken and scarred. Years later, Lee Hwon ascends to the throne as king, haunted by the memory of his lost love. Fate intervenes when he encounters Wol, a shaman who bears an uncanny resemblance to Yeon Woo. Drawn to her mysterious aura and familiar presence, Lee Hwon becomes increasingly intrigued by Wol, suspecting that she may hold the key to unraveling the secrets of his past. Kim Soo Hyun's portrayal of King Lee Hwon is both captivating and nuanced, capturing the inner turmoil of a ruler torn between duty and desire. He perfectly embodies the character's regal demeanor, unwavering resolve, and underlying vulnerability. The drama's intricate plot, stunning visuals, and compelling performances captivated audiences, earning it widespread acclaim and record-breaking viewership ratings. Moon Embracing the Sun is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and redemption that will leave you spellbound from beginning to end. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions as you immerse yourself in the opulent world of the Joseon Dynasty and witness the unfolding of a timeless romance.

My Love from the Star (2013-2014)

Okay, My Love from the Star is where things get seriously iconic. Kim Soo Hyun plays Do Min Joon, an alien who landed on Earth 400 years ago during the Joseon Dynasty. Stranded and immortal, he's been living among humans, waiting for his chance to return to his home planet. Fast forward to modern-day Korea, and he's just a few months away from finally going home. But, of course, things get complicated when he meets Cheon Song Yi (Jun Ji Hyun), a famous actress who's as glamorous as she is clumsy. Their chemistry is off the charts, and watching their relationship develop is pure gold. Do Min Joon is stoic, intelligent, and a bit of a loner, while Cheon Song Yi is outgoing, sassy, and used to getting her way. Despite their contrasting personalities and backgrounds, they find themselves drawn to each other, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming romance. But with Do Min Joon's impending departure and the ever-present threat of his alien identity being revealed, their love is constantly tested. Kim Soo Hyun's performance in this drama is absolutely phenomenal. He effortlessly portrays the aloofness and wisdom of an alien who has witnessed centuries of human history, while also conveying the vulnerability and longing of a man who yearns for connection. The drama's unique premise, witty writing, and stellar cast made it a massive hit across Asia, solidifying Kim Soo Hyun's status as a global superstar. If you're looking for a K-drama that's funny, romantic, and a little bit out of this world, My Love from the Star is a must-watch!

The Producers (2015)

In The Producers, Kim Soo Hyun takes on a slightly different role as Baek Seung Chan, a rookie producer who joins the entertainment division of a major broadcasting network. Unlike his previous characters, Baek Seung Chan is a bit of a bumbling and naive newbie, struggling to navigate the cutthroat world of television production. He's initially motivated by his crush on a senior colleague, but soon finds himself immersed in the chaotic and demanding environment of the industry. The drama offers a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of producers, writers, and entertainers, showcasing the challenges they face in creating popular TV shows. From dealing with demanding celebrities to managing tight deadlines and navigating office politics, Baek Seung Chan experiences a steep learning curve as he tries to find his footing in the industry. Kim Soo Hyun's portrayal of Baek Seung Chan is endearing and relatable, capturing the character's awkwardness, enthusiasm, and determination to succeed. The drama also features a stellar supporting cast, including Cha Tae Hyun, Gong Hyo Jin, and IU, who bring depth and humor to their respective roles. While The Producers may not be as widely popular as some of Kim Soo Hyun's other dramas, it offers a unique and insightful glimpse into the world of Korean television production. It's a great choice if you're interested in seeing a different side of Kim Soo Hyun and learning more about the inner workings of the entertainment industry.

It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)

Last but definitely not least, we have It's Okay to Not Be Okay, a drama that tackles sensitive issues with grace and empathy. Kim Soo Hyun plays Moon Gang Tae, a caregiver working at a psychiatric hospital. He lives a selfless life, dedicating himself to taking care of his autistic older brother, Moon Sang Tae (Oh Jung Se). Emotionally closed off due to past traumas, Gang Tae avoids forming close relationships and lives a nomadic existence, moving from town to town with his brother. His life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Ko Moon Young (Seo Yea Ji), a popular children's book author with antisocial personality disorder. Moon Young is fierce, independent, and unapologetically herself, but she's also deeply wounded and struggles to connect with others. Despite their contrasting personalities and emotional baggage, Gang Tae and Moon Young find themselves drawn to each other, forming a complicated and unconventional bond. As they navigate their own personal struggles and confront their past traumas, they learn to heal and find solace in each other's company. Kim Soo Hyun's performance in It's Okay to Not Be Okay is simply outstanding. He delivers a nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of a man burdened by responsibility and struggling to cope with his own emotional pain. The drama's sensitive exploration of mental health issues, coupled with its beautiful cinematography and stellar cast, resonated deeply with audiences, earning it critical acclaim and numerous awards. It's Okay to Not Be Okay is a powerful and moving drama that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it. It's a testament to the importance of empathy, acceptance, and the healing power of love.

So there you have it, folks! These are just some of the must-watch TV shows featuring the incredibly talented Kim Soo Hyun. Each drama offers a unique and compelling storyline, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Whether you're a seasoned K-drama veteran or a newbie looking for something to binge-watch, these shows are guaranteed to keep you entertained. Happy watching! Also, don't forget to share your thoughts and favorite Kim Soo Hyun dramas in the comments below. Let's chat about all things K-drama!