- By Swati Singh
- Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:18 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
South Korea's Highest Paid Actors Of 2025: Korean dramas have a very loyal fanbase globally. The stars of these shows, such as Lee Jung-jae and Kim Soo-hyun, are making headlines not only for their performances but also for their record-breaking earnings. From Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae to Kim Soo-hyun, among others here is a list of top 5 Highest Paid South Korean actors of 2025.
South Korea's Highest-Paid Actors Of 2025
Lee Jung-jae
Squid Game actor Lee Jung-jae is reportedly the highest paid actor in South Korea. He is considered as one of South Korea's most successful actors, receiving numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Critics' Choice Television Award, six Baeksang Arts Awards, in addition to nominations for a Golden Globe Award and a Gotham Award. Jung-jae earned around $697,000 to $1 million per episode for Squid Game Season 2, according to reports.
Kim Soo-hyun
Kim Soo-hyun, who is currently at the centre of controversy, is cited as one of the highest-paid actors in South Korean industry. According to a report by Tatler Asia, he charged $423,000 per episode for One Ordinary Day, while $231,250 per episode for Queen Of Tears, as reported by The Korea Times.
Hyun-Bin
Hyun-Bin is considered one of the most popular actors in the Korean indusry. Known for his role in Crash Landing on You, the actor has earned around $167,000 per episode for the Kdrama series.
Lee Min Ho
Lee Min Ho's global appeal is undeniable, thanks to his starring roles in hit K-dramas like Boys Over Flowers and The King: Eternal Monarch. This South Korean heartthrob reportedly earns around $167,000 per episode, and his net worth is estimated to be approximately $80 million in 2025, although some sources cite it as $26 million or $30 million. His wealth stems not only from acting but also from endorsement deals and savvy real estate investments.
Lee Young-ae
Known for her popular roles in Dae Jang Geum and Lady Vengeance, Lee Young-ae earns around ₩100 million per episode, equivalent to approximately $90,700. She is one of the most respected figures in the Korean entertainment. Young-ae has donated to various causes, including humanitarian efforts for children hurt in the Israel-Hamas war and victims of the 2022 South Korean floods.