
Age: 46
male
Gong Yoo (Hangul: 공유) is a South Korean actor. He started his career in showbiz as a VJ and subsequently debuted with parts in school dramas and films, eventually gaining starring roles in prime time dramas such Hello My Teacher and One Fine Day. His role as a cafe manager who falls in love with a girl disguised as a man in romantic comedy The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince solidified his status as a drama leading man. The popularity of the drama made him a regional star. After serving the 2-year compulsory military service, Gong Yoo made his comeback with romantic comedy Finding Mr Destiny and Silenced, a film project spearheaded by the actor himself upon reading the book based on the real events of deaf students being sexually exploited by the staff in a South Korean special school. Gong took on the role as a North Korean agent in action film the suspect in 2013. His post-military television comeback Big was however, not as well received. While Gong remained popular with Korean audience and brand sponsors, he experienced somewhat of a career renaissance in 2016 with box office hits Train to Busan and Age of Shadows, as well as one of the most-viewed Korean cable television drama, Goblin.

Gong Yoo

Park Jae-sang
for Park Jae-sang in Waves of Change: The Korean Wave Chronicles
Suggested by kamsismith

"Waves of Change" is an exhilarating TV series that delves deep into the captivating journey of the Korean Wave, tracing its origins in the late 1990s to its meteoric rise and global impact in the present day. Each episode of "Waves of Change" will transport viewers through a thrilling exploration of the key milestones, cultural phenomena, and influential figures that have shaped the Korean Wave phenomenon. From the early success of iconic K-pop groups like H.O.T and Seo Taiji and Boys to the groundbreaking dramas such as "Winter Sonata" and "My Love from the Star," audiences will witness the evolution of Korean entertainment and its profound influence on global pop culture. Through expert interviews, archival footage, and immersive storytelling, "Waves of Change" will unravel the complexities of the Korean Wave, examining its economic, social, and political significance both within South Korea and across the world. From the emergence of social media platforms to the role of fan communities in driving international fandom, the series will highlight the power of connectivity in fueling the spread of Korean culture.