[FEATURE] Looking Back at So Ji Sub’s Five Phenomenal Dramas

With the global popularity of Korean dramas, it’s needless to say that the roster of actors is growing really fast. From a plethora of rising stars, idol-actors, and veterans, the top-notch star So Ji Sub has definitely made a phenomenal name in the industry.

So Ji Sub identified himself as an introverted teenager whose interests lie in hip hop music and swimming alone, but it seemed like the odds were in his favor when his desire to just pose alongside hip hop artist Kim Sung Jae actually landed him his first modelling stint. This then became the gateway to yet another door of success for him – from sitcoms to historical dramas, playing supporting and lead roles, So Ji Sub has become South Korea’s sought-after actor in his now 24-year-old career.

What made him the versatile actor that he is today? Let’s look back at the five most memorable hits in his filmography!

What Happened in Bali (2004)

Although So Ji Sub began his career in 1996, it was his 2004 drama ‘What Happened in Bali’ that made him rise to fame. He plays the second-lead role of Kang In Wook, a cold-hearted man who works in Indonesia and is also tangled in a complicated marriage of his ex-girlfriend Young Joo. He acted alongside Jo In Sung, Ha Ji Won, and Park Ye-Jin.

I’m Sorry, I Love You (2004)

This critically acclaimed melodrama has created an impact all over Asia and has established him as Korea’s top star. So Ji Sub plays Cha Moo Hyuk — a scam artist in Melbourne, Australia who meets a fashion coordinator named Song Eun-Chae. They later develop feelings for each other, but due to unfortunate circumstances involving their families, he kills himself in a motorcycle accident, making his last phone call and saying “I’m Sorry, I Love You” as his tragic bid of farewell to the love of his life.

Rough Cut (2008)

Soon after serving in the military, So Ji Sub starred in Jang Hoon’s directorial debut ‘Rough Cut’ as ‘Gang-pae’. He meets ‘Soo-ta’, a gangster plays by Kang Ji-hwan, who also shares the same life-long dream of becoming an actor. Exhilarating and eclectic, this action-packed film had garnered numerous recognition and nominations. One of these was his ‘Best Actor’ award in the 2008 Korean Association of Film Critics Awards.

Master’s Sun (2013)

So Ji Sub mostly portrayed characters in melodramas, so transforming his image in this horror-romantic comedy series had again proven his versatile talent. Cold and distant, his character Joo Joong Won meets Tae Gong Shil, played by Gong Hyo Jin, who sees ghosts and can only be stopped with Joong-won’s touch. His undeniable chemistry with the actress was a huge hit and has indeed redeemed his fame all over Asia.

Oh My Venus (2015)

This romantic comedy series revolves around So Ji Sub as a fitness trainer, John Kim, who helps a woman named Kang Joo Eun (as played by Shin Min Ah) to reach her goals to lose weight as a revenge to her ex-boyfriend. In the series of events, they both unravel their past traumas and realise each other’s worth in healing their emotional wounds. This feel-good, light drama warmed all viewers’ heart and had definitely added numbers in the list of his unwavering fans.

We are glad to see this shy guy transform into one of the finest Korean actors of his generation today. As a way of gratitude, he will meet fans from all over Asia to gather and celebrate his artistry!

For his Filipino fans, they can catch him live on March 16, 2019, Saturday, at 7 PM and will be held at New Frontier Theatre. Hurry up and buy your tickets now!