Gong Yoo, also known as Gong Ji-cheol, has played numerous iconic roles in both movies and TV shows, including the action-packed zombie thriller Train To Busan and the hugely successful Squid Game on Netflix. As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for almost 20 years, Gong’s first major role was in Hello My Teacher in 2005, with his breakthrough coming in the form of the 2007 hit drama Coffee Prince. Since then, he has become one of South Korea’s most respected and well-known actors.
Gong’s international fame skyrocketed after his appearances in Train to Busan and Squid Game, which is widely regarded as one of the best K-dramas of all time. He then took on the lead role of Han Yoon-jae in Netflix’s The Silent Sea, a gripping sci-fi series that quickly climbed to the top of Netflix’s global charts. Forbes even hailed it as one of Netflix’s best sci-fi series to date. Gong’s reputation for starring in some of the most popular Korean TV shows and movies is a testament to his exceptional acting talent.
The Silent Sea
Han Yoon-jae
The Silent Sea is a miniseries on Netflix, directed by Choi Hang-yong and based on his 2014 short film. The show delves into a global drought crisis that takes place in the late 2060s. It follows the journey of Dr. Song Ji-an (played by Bae Doona), an astrobiologist, and Captain Han Yoon-jae (played by Gong Yoo) as they lead a team to a lunar base to uncover a mysterious substance that could potentially end the drought. While Gong Yoo’s acting performance is commendable, the series suffers from pacing issues. The ending of The Silent Sea explains information too straightforwardly to the audience, which detracts from the more thrilling aspects of the show.
Silenced
Kang In-ho
Gong Yoo delivers a compelling portrayal of Kang In Ho, a teacher who exposes abuse at a Korean school for deaf children, in the film Silenced. The movie is divided into two parts, skillfully balancing a disturbing atmosphere with a courtroom thriller. Silenced gained widespread attention for its depiction of a true story involving sexual abuse at a school for deaf children. While the film’s graphic depiction of sexual violence drew criticism, Gong Yoo’s performance is captivating and effectively engages the audience’s empathy for the victims of these heinous crimes.
Hello My Teacher
Park Tae In
Gong Yoo’s debut lead role was in the 2005 K-drama Hello My Teacher, where he portrayed Park Tae In, the school’s top fighter who falls for the protagonist, Na Bo Ri (Gong Hyo Jin). Bo Ri returns to the school as a teacher due to her unrequited love for her former teacher, Ji Hyun Woo (Kim Da Hyun). However, Tae In’s feelings for Bo Ri complicate matters, and he refuses to behave until she becomes their classroom teacher. The romantic melodrama showcased Gong Yoo’s exceptional acting abilities, which would later be further demonstrated in his future projects.
Coffee Prince
Choi Han-gyeol
Gong Yoo rose to fame with his breakout role in the Korean drama Coffee Prince. He played Choi Han Gyul, who inherits a struggling coffee shop from his grandmother and hires Go Eun Chan (Yoon Eun Hye), a girl he initially mistakes for a boy. The show’s plot revolves around Han Gyul’s confusion and growing attraction to Eun Chan, resulting in a perfect blend of drama and humor. Coffee Prince has been widely acclaimed for its sensitive portrayal of sexuality, gender issues, and female empowerment. The drama catapulted Gong Yoo to hallyu stardom.
Squid Game
The Salesman/Recruiter
Squid Game is a Korean Netflix series that follows contestants facing financial difficulties as they participate in lethal versions of traditional Korean children’s games in hopes of winning a substantial cash prize. Gong Yoo’s captivating cameo as the enigmatic recruiter sets the ominous tone for the show. Despite his brief appearance, his role is crucial in introducing the protagonist, Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), to the deadly games. Gong Yoo’s portrayal of the recruiter is both charming and sinister, expertly concealing the dark truth behind the seemingly harmless game of ddakji in Squid Game.
The Suspect
Ji Dong-cheol
Gong Yoo delivers a captivating performance in The Suspect as a defector from North Korea, marking his first foray into action roles. The movie follows Ji Dong-Chul (Gong Yoo) as he sets out to clear his name and find the killer of his family, after being falsely accused of assassinating a prominent company’s chairman. Gong Yoo’s portrayal of a man driven by a burning desire for revenge, despite being a man of few words, is both intense and haunting. The Suspect is filled with fast-paced chase scenes and action sequences, paving the way for Gong Yoo to take on more action-centered roles in the future.
The Age of Shadows
Kim Woo-Jin
Gong Yoo delivers a captivating performance as Kim Woo-jin, the leader of the Korean resistance against Japanese occupation in the 1920s, in The Age of Shadows. Despite the intricate plot involving loyalty, espionage, and resistance, Gong Yoo shines with his portrayal of a character struggling between his love for Yun Gye-Soon (Han Ji-min), a resistance heroine, and his dedication to the cause. The Age of Shadows is an exhilarating spy thriller with gripping action scenes, showcasing Gong Yoo’s talent as an action hero.
A Man and a Woman
Ki-Hong
The on-screen chemistry between Gong Yoo and Jeon Do Yeon is a standout feature of A Man and A Woman. The film’s storyline revolves around Sang Min and Ki Hong, who meet in a park in Helsinki and spend a passionate night together in a deserted cabin. Despite being married to other people, their intense connection leads to a forbidden love. A Man and A Woman is a poignant exploration of human desire and the search for comfort. Gong Yoo delivers a powerful performance, portraying his character’s deep loneliness and vulnerability, which only adds to the heart-wrenching nature of the couple’s doomed future. Gong Yoo and Jeon Do Yeon’s undeniable chemistry makes for a wonderful on-screen pairing.
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God
Kim Shin/Goblin
Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, also known as Goblin, is a remarkable Korean drama that stands out from the rest. It tells the story of Kim Shin, an immortal goblin played by Gong Yoo, and Ji Eun-Tak, the girl who is destined to end his eternal life, portrayed by Kim Go-eun. The drama is a beautiful blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy, with a richly layered plot. Gong Yoo’s performance as Kim Shin is outstanding, and the chemistry between the cast is undeniable. With its emotional depth, humor, and stunning visuals, Goblin is a must-watch and is considered one of the most popular K-dramas of recent years.
Train to Busan
Seok-woo
Train to Busan is an action-packed South Korean zombie film that combines social satire, melodrama, and thrilling suspense. Gong Yoo plays Seok-woo, a divorced fund manager who reluctantly takes his daughter on a train ride to Busan. However, a deadly virus outbreak quickly turns the train into a nightmare of flesh-eating zombies. With its fast-paced action, impressive cinematography, and haunting soundtrack, Train to Busan is a non-stop thrill ride in the zombie genre. Gong Yoo delivers a standout performance, showcasing his emotional depth and complexity as an action star.