Korean Actor Brand Reputation Rankings: Insights on Star Power Shifts from Netflix Icons to K-Drama Luminaries This Month

Understanding the current rankings offers valuable insights for both fans and producers, highlighting trends that deserve attention.

Netflix Remains on Top

The Importance of K-Drama Chemistry

This month’s ranking serves as a nostalgic tribute to some of the most beloved on-screen partnerships and ensemble performances in Korean dramas.

Song Joong Ki and Jeon Yeo Been, who captivated audiences in the hit series Vincenzo, are again featured prominently in this month’s list. Their drama, a blend of mafia intrigue and romance released during the pandemic, continues to resonate with fans and drive significant online engagement — a testament to its enduring popularity.

Additionally, acclaimed actors Kim Tae Ri and Kim Da Mi appear separately in this month’s rankings. Despite not sharing the screen together, their impressive stylistic choices and nuanced performances in Twenty-Five Twenty-One and Our Beloved Summer respectively, often lead them to be discussed in the same breath, showcasing their impact on contemporary K-drama culture.

The Return of Cinema Icons

Notably, the current rankings highlight an increasing trend of established film actors transitioning into the digital drama landscape.

Lee Byung Hun, celebrated for his roles in films like I Saw the Devil and Mr. Sunshine, is now part of the Squid Game universe. His evolving career in K-dramas has generated immense anticipation among his fanbase for future projects.

Gong Yoo, another multi-talented star, continues to gain acclaim with performances in The Silent Sea and Train to Busan. His charm and selective project choices keep him relevant and beloved, proving his versatility across genres.

Ma Dong Seok, known as a box office sensation, is rumored to be making a comeback to K-dramas, which has sparked excitement even without a current hit show, underscoring his lasting appeal in the industry.

The Influence of Agencies

Delving deeper reveals the significant role that entertainment agencies play in bolstering star power within the industry. Many of these prominent figures are represented by a few major labels, effectively positioning these agencies as key players in shaping the Hallyu wave.

For instance, BH Entertainment manages both Lee Byung Hun and Ma Dong Seok, whereas Management mmm represents rising talents like Kim Da Mi and Kim Tae Ri. Their strategic placements in high-profile dramas and streaming content keep these actors in the public eye, ensuring sustained buzz throughout the year.

The frequency of actors from the same agency or collaborative platforms appearing on this list suggests an interconnected creative ecosystem that is likely to influence casting decisions in the coming years.

Genre Trends that Capture Audience Interest

This month’s rankings also highlight the evolving tastes of viewers, embracing a broader range of genres beyond the traditional romantic comedy.

Audiences are increasingly drawn to narratives featuring thrillers, survival dramas, legal dramas, and psychological mysteries. For instance, Son Suk Ku delivers a compelling performance in My Liberation Notes, while Lee Je Hoon showcases his action-hero prowess in Taxi Driver. Meanwhile, actors like Kim Hye Soo in Juvenile Justice and Park Seo Joon, soon to appear in The Marvels, demonstrate the strong demand for socially conscious storytelling.

Emerging stars such as Lee Jae In and Gong Myoung signal the bright future of the industry. However, many of July’s most recognized names are seasoned veterans, indicating a cultural appreciation for continuity alongside innovation. This equilibrium of established talent and fresh voices continues to solidify Korea’s entertainment industry as a global powerhouse.

Top 30 K-Drama Actors with High Brand Reputation – July 2025

1. Lee Jung Jae 2. Lee Byung Hun 3. Yim Si Wan 4. Lee Sun Bin 5. Son Suk Ku 6. So Ji Sub 7. Kang Ha Neul 8. Gong Myoung 9. Lee Jun Hyuk 10. Song Joong Ki 11. Go Youn Jung 12. Gong Yong 14 Kim Dong Wokye 13.16. Jung Hae In 17. Han Ji Min 18. Lee Jae In 19. Yoo Hae Jin 20. Ma Dong Seok 21. Shim Eun Kyung 22. Lee Jong Suk 23. Jeon Yeo Been 24. Cha Seung Won 25. Go Soo Ye 26. Lee 8 Park Joo Seon 27. Jin 30. Kim Da Mi

This article was originally published on Kdrama Stars

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