Kim Soo Hyun was born on February 16, 1988, in Seoul, South Korea. His early life was marked by a shy and introverted personality, which his mother sought to change by encouraging him to take acting classes. This decision sparked his interest in acting, and he pursued it further in high school and university. He enrolled in Chung-Ang University’s Department of Film and Theater, where he honed his skills in stage plays like A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Hamlet. Kim’s father, Kim Chung-hoon, was a singer in the 1980s band “Seven Dolphins,” showcasing a family background in entertainment. Kim’s career began with minor roles in TV sitcoms such as Kimchi Cheese Smile in 2007, but his breakthrough came with Dream High in 2011, where he played Song Sam-dong, a country boy with a musical talent. The success of this drama catapulted him to fame, and he quickly followed up with other hit series, including Moon Embracing the Sun (2012) and My Love from the Star (2013). These performances solidified his reputation as a top Hallyu star. His film debut, The Thieves (2012), also enjoyed commercial success, further establishing him as a versatile actor.
Kim continued his rise with projects like The Producers (2015), It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020), and One Ordinary Day (2021). In addition to acting, he completed his mandatory military service from 2017 to 2019, demonstrating his commitment despite health issues that initially made him ineligible for active duty. Upon his return, Kim picked up right where he left off, starring in high-profile dramas and securing lucrative endorsement deals.
Cars Owned by Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun is known for his love of luxury cars, befitting his status as one of South Korea’s highest-paid actors. Although he tends to keep his personal life and assets private, he has been spotted driving high-end models, such as the Range Rover Vogue and Porsche 911. These vehicles reflect his preference for both comfort and performance.
The actor’s car collection is not particularly extensive compared to some other celebrities, but it aligns with his understated public image. Rather than flaunting an array of vehicles, Kim seems to prefer maintaining a select few that showcase his taste and status without being overly flashy.
Houses Owned by Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun reportedly owns a luxury property in the affluent area of Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Seoul. This area is known for its high real estate value and is popular among South Korea’s elite, including many actors and entertainers. His house is said to reflect modern aesthetics and offers privacy, essential for someone of his status.
Additionally, there have been reports of Kim investing in other real estate projects, although he remains discreet about these holdings. His investment choices indicate a strategic approach to maintaining and growing his wealth outside of the entertainment industry.
How Kim Soo Hyun Made His Money
Kim Soo Hyun’s wealth primarily comes from his work as an actor. Starting with small roles in sitcoms, he quickly rose to fame through lead roles in television dramas. His breakout series, Dream High and Moon Embracing the Sun, not only boosted his acting career but also opened opportunities for brand endorsements. These successful projects made him one of the most sought-after actors in Korea and allowed him to command high fees for his work.
He also started in highly popular movies like Secretly, Greatly (2013) and Real (2017). His talent and box-office appeal led to numerous awards and nominations, including the Grand Prize (Daesang) at various award shows. His successful TV series My Love from the Star and It’s Okay to Not Be Okay brought him global recognition and further opportunities in international markets, enhancing his value as a Hallyu star.
In addition to his acting career, Kim has leveraged his fame through lucrative endorsement deals. In 2014 alone, he endorsed 35 brands, ranging from clothing and cosmetics to electronics. His ability to maintain this level of endorsement power over the years has been a significant contributor to his wealth. Companies value his influence and clean image, which aligns well with various product categories.
Kim has also made strategic investments, particularly in real estate. Given the volatile nature of the entertainment industry, he diversified his assets by purchasing properties in high-value areas. This has not only provided him with a steady income but also increased his overall net worth as the value of these properties appreciate.
Net Worth
As of the latest reports, Kim Soo Hyun’s estimated net worth is around $117 million. However, he is not listed on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks individuals with much higher levels of wealth. His earnings come from his acting fees, brand endorsements, and real estate investments, making him one of the wealthiest actors in South Korea.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kim Soo Hyun |
| Date of Birth | February 16, 1988 |
| Marital Status | Single |
| Number of Siblings | 1 (Half-sister: Kim Ju-na) |
| Number and Name of Children | None |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Net Worth | $117 million |