The Wealthiest Actors in South Korea 2021
South Korea's entertainment industry has seen a surge in talent and demand, leading to significant disparities in pay among the country's most renowned actors. As of 2021, several actors have managed to break the million-dollar mark in earnings per episode. This article delves into the top four richest actors in South Korea, focusing on their prominent roles and major achievements.
Topping the List: Kim Soo Hyun
Leading the list is Kim Soo Hyun, a 32-year-old actor who gained international acclaim for his role in It's Okay to Not Be Okay. His earlier works, including Dream High, Moon Embracing the Sun, and My Love from the Star, have solidified his reputation as a versatile and marketable talent. Kim Soo Hyun grosses approximately SGD240,000 per episode, making him not just a high-profile actor but a highly lucrative one. This significant earning reflects his immense popularity, not only in South Korea but also on the world stage.
Jun Ji Hyun: A Legendary Star
Jun Ji Hyun is one of the most iconic figures in Korean cinema, known for her roles in films such as My Sassy Girl, Windstruck, and Il Mare. Her recent appearances in shows like My Love from the Star have led to her earning about SGD120,000 per episode. Additionally, in 2017, she made a substantial real estate investment by purchasing an entire building in Gangnam, a lavish neighborhood in Seoul. This purchase further illustrates her financial success and status as an influential celebrity.
Hyun Bin: Worldwide Renowned
Hyun Bin, a familiar face in Korean media, has seen a surge in popularity due to his leading role in the highly-rated drama Crash Landing on You. This series, which ranks as the third highest-rated South Korean TV drama in cable television history, propelled Hyun Bin to international stardom. His impressive earnings of approximately SGD112,000 per episode highlight the exceptional quality and market demand for his performances.
Lee Young-Ae: A Veteran of Distinction
Lee Young-Ae, a veteran actress, has earned a reputation for her talent and performances. Although she hasn't starred in as many shows as her contemporaries, she consistently earns SGD100,000 per episode thanks to the quality of her roles. Her breakthrough performance came when she won the Best New Actress Award at the 1994 SBS Drama Awards for her role in Jewel in the Palace. After taking a hiatus to focus on family, she made a successful return in 2017 with Saimdang Memoir of Colors. Her success demonstrates that in the competitive world of entertainment, quality always outshines quantity.
In conclusion, the top four richest actors in South Korea are earning staggering amounts, leading them to be recognized not just for their talents on screen but also for their significant financial success. These recent figures underscore the immense demand for top-tier talent in the Korean entertainment industry.