Want to know which K-drama actors are most-loved this year? We have the results from a major survey on the best Korean drama actors of 2025. Let’s honor the talent that has moved, thrilled, and captivated us all this year. See if your favorite made the list!
Best Korean Drama Actors of 2025 Named by Industry Insiders
Joynews24, a leading entertainment news, gathered 110 industry experts—from producers to reporters—to name the year’s shining stars. They highlighted the dramas, variety shows, films, actors, and singers who made a real impact. Who did they pick as the absolute best in K-drama acting?
IU (23 Votes)
This year, IU didn’t just act; she became a sensation. Her dual roles in Netflix’s “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” set on Jeju Island, captured hearts worldwide. She brought us to tears, made us laugh, and truly showed what an all-around talent she is.
You might know her as a singer, but IU proved she is a master of acting, too. Playing both the strong-willed literary girl Aesoon and her shrewd eldest daughter, Yang Geum-myeong, she became the characters. It was more than just a performance. It was a deep, emotional journey for us all.
Critics agreed. IU won Best Actress at the Blue Dragon Series Awards and took home top honors from the Brand of the Year Awards and Seoul Drama Awards. What’s next for her? She returns in 2026 with “Perfect Crown,” playing a chaebol heiress with a commoner status. Imagine her chemistry with Byun Woo-seok! We surely can’t wait.
Yeom Hye Ran (19 Votes)
Coming in second, Yeom Hye-ran proved that even a short appearance can leave a powerful mark. In “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” she played IU’s mother, Jeon Gwang-rye. She stole every scene with raw emotion.
Her portrayal of a diving woman (Haenyeo) facing a harsh reality resonated deeply. Her character’s final words to her daughter hit hard: “Even if both parents die first, the children will live. You just live. You’ll live. There will be tougher days as you live.”
It was a moment that stayed with us long after. Viewers poured out praise, calling her performance “truly amazing” and saying, “Now, just seeing Yeom Hye-ran’s face makes me cry.” She rightfully earned Best Supporting Actress awards at the Baeksang Arts Awards, Blue Dragon Series Awards, and Global OTT Awards.
YoonA (11 Votes)
YoonA secures her spot as a consistent hit-maker in K-dramas. After “Big Mouth” and “King the Land,” her role in tvN’s “Bon Appétit, Your Majesty” sealed her success. She played a French chef who time-slips into the Joseon era, mixing comedy, romance, and a chef’s passionate growth.
Her fantastic chemistry with co-star Lee Chae-min also earned high praise. “Bon Appétit, Your Majesty” became tvN’s highest-rated drama of 2025 after only four episodes. It even topped Netflix’s Global TOP 10 TV (Non-English) list. YoonA just keeps shining!
Park Bo Young (9 Votes)
Fourth place goes to Park Bo-young. She showcased an eclectic, engaging performance in her dual role on tvN’s “Unwritten Seoul.” She consistently brings a special charm to every role.
Han Suk Kyu (6 Votes)
Veteran actor Han Suk-kyu earned fifth place. His memorable work in tvN’s “Shin’s Project.’ His steady presence always makes a drama better. Right now, the second season of the series is in discussion. Who’s excited?
Other Stars We Loved
Other brilliant actors also received votes, showing the depth of talent in K-drama today. These include Ju Ji-hoon and Choo Young-woo from Netflix’s “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call,” Lee Chae-min from “Bon Appétit, Your Majesty,” and Park Bo-gum, who also appeared in “When Life Gives You Tangerines.” Their contributions make every K-drama offer a richer viewing experience and a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
This year, these talented artists made a big impact. Their performances touched our hearts as we really felt their hard work and skill through their portrayals.
Who do you think are the best Korean drama actors this year? Who are you excited to see next? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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