Highest Paid Korean Actor and Actress in 2025
The Korean entertainment industry continues to rise in global popularity, with Korean dramas dominating Netflix and international platforms. With the soaring success of K-dramas and Hallyu stars becoming household names worldwide, it's no surprise that the earnings of top-tier Korean actors and actresses have skyrocketed. But who currently holds the title of the highest paid Korean actor and actress in 2025? Let’s find out.
Why Their Salaries Are So High
The explosive growth of K-dramas globally has created massive demand for seasoned and charismatic actors. Top streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video are investing heavily in Korean content, pushing production budgets—and star salaries—higher.
High ratings, brand endorsements, and international appeal are key factors behind the million-dollar paychecks of these A-list Korean celebrities. Their ability to draw global audiences justifies their sky-high appearance fees and endorsement deals.
Highest Paid Korean Actor in 2025: Kim Soo-hyun
💰 Estimated Earnings: $1.2 million per episode
Kim Soo-hyun remains the highest paid Korean actor in 2025, setting records with his recent blockbuster series "Queen of Tears."
Why Kim Soo-hyun Tops the List:
-
Massive international fan base: After hits like It's Okay to Not Be Okay and My Love from the Star, Kim continues to attract viewers across Asia, the US, and Europe.
-
Consistent hits: His dramas consistently dominate viewership ratings and online streaming charts.
-
Versatility: From romantic comedies to intense thrillers, Kim Soo-hyun delivers exceptional performances that elevate any production.
Career Highlights:
-
Dream High (2011)
-
Moon Embracing the Sun (2012)
-
My Love from the Star (2013)
-
It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020)
-
Queen of Tears (2024)
Highest Paid Korean Actress in 2025: Jun Ji-hyun
💰 Estimated Earnings: $300,000 per episode
Known globally as the "Queen of K-drama," Jun Ji-hyun is the highest paid Korean actress in 2025, thanks to her leading role in "Kingdom" a horror drama that gained critical acclaim.
Why Jun Ji-hyun Leads the Pack:
-
Global recognition: Known for her roles in My Sassy Girl and Legend of the Blue Sea, Jun Ji-hyun has cemented her place as a top-tier actress.
-
Luxury endorsements: She represents brands like Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, and Piaget, earning millions through brand deals.
-
Acting range: From romantic comedies to high-intensity dramas, her emotional depth and presence command high pay.
Career Highlights:
-
My Sassy Girl (2001)
-
The Thieves (2012)
-
My Love from the Star (2013)
-
Legend of the Blue Sea (2016)
-
Kingdom (2025)
Other Top Earning Korean Actors in 2025
While Kim Soo-hyun tops the list, several others are not far behind. Here's a look at some of the highest paid male actors in Korea this year:
1. Hyun Bin
-
Earnings: $850,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: Crash Landing on You
-
Known For: Crash Landing on You, Secret Garden
2. Lee Jong-suk
-
Earnings: $700,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: Big Mouth
-
Known For: W, While You Were Sleeping
3. Song Joong-ki
-
Earnings: $650,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: Bogota
-
Known For: Descendants of the Sun, Vincenzo
Read Our Recent article - Best Korean Thriller Movies
Other Top Earning Korean Actresses in 2025
Besides Jun Ji-hyun, here are the actresses commanding huge per-episode fees:
1. Song Hye-kyo
-
Earnings: $270,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: The Glory Part 2
-
Known For: Descendants of the Sun, The Glory
2. Park Eun-bin
-
Earnings: $250,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: Hyper Knife
-
Known For: Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Castaway Diva
3. Han So-hee
-
Earnings: $220,000 per episode
-
Recent Hit: Gyeongseong Creature: Season 2
-
Known For: Nevertheless, My Name
How Are These Salaries Calculated?
The per-episode pay is determined by various factors:
-
Years of experience
-
Previous drama ratings
-
Popularity overseas
-
Brand endorsements
-
Social media following
-
Fan engagement and marketability
In some cases, actors also receive a percentage of the production’s profits or international streaming rights.
Read Our Recent Article - 15 Upcoming Netflix Korean Dramas
K-Drama Industry Trends Affecting Actor Salaries
Here’s what’s boosting actor and actress salaries in Korea:
-
Globalization of Korean content via platforms like Netflix, Viki, and Disney+
-
International fan meets and events generating additional revenue
-
Increased investment from global production houses
-
Cross-border endorsements with top global brands
Upcoming Projects to Watch in 2025
Curious about what your favorite high-paid stars are working on?
-
Kim Soo-hyun – Starring in “Knock Off” a black comedy series.
-
Jun Ji-hyun – Lead role in “Tempest” a spy romance drama.
-
Park Eun-bin – Returning in “The Wonder Fools” a comedy action adventure series.
-
Hyun Bin – Shooting a period political K-drama, “Made In Korea”
These projects are expected to break new streaming records and further solidify their positions as the highest paid Korean actors and actresses.
Why Fans Support Their Success
Fans across the world celebrate the success of these actors not just for their talent but also for:
-
Their humility and relatability off-screen
-
Their commitment to craft
-
Their contributions to spreading Korean culture
Conclusion
The titles of the highest paid Korean actor and actress in 2025 go to Kim Soo-hyun and Jun Ji-hyun—both of whom continue to raise the bar for talent and global appeal. Their success is a testament to how far Korean entertainment has come and how beloved K-dramas have become around the world.
As their careers continue to flourish, fans can look forward to more groundbreaking dramas, epic performances, and unforgettable stories. Visit our website Kdrama News for more K-Drama related updates and news.