Kim Soo Hyun's Best Dramas: A Must-Watch List

Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you're probably obsessed with Korean dramas, or K-dramas, and when it comes to K-drama royalty, Kim Soo Hyun definitely reigns supreme. This dude has been killing it on screen for years, and his performances are always captivating. So, if you're new to his work or just looking for a reason to re-watch some classics, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into some of Kim Soo Hyun's best dramas that you absolutely need to check out!

Dream High (2011): The Birth of a Star

Let's kick things off with Dream High. This drama is like a time capsule back to 2011, but it's a classic for a reason. Kim Soo Hyun plays Song Sam Dong, a country bumpkin with a hidden musical talent. Seriously, his transformation throughout the series is amazing. At first, he's this naive kid who's head-over-heels for Go Hye Mi (played by Suzy), and he follows her to Kirin High School, which is basically a performing arts school. The whole drama is about these students chasing their dreams of becoming stars, and it's filled with singing, dancing, and, of course, plenty of drama. What makes Dream High so special is the underdog story. Sam Dong starts off as a total newbie, but he works his butt off and slowly starts to realize his potential. Watching him grow as a person and as a musician is seriously inspiring. Plus, the soundtrack is ridiculously catchy. You'll be humming these tunes for days, trust me. And let's not forget the amazing cast! Besides Kim Soo Hyun and Suzy, you've got Taecyeon from 2PM, IU, and Wooyoung from 2PM. It's like a K-pop dream team. If you're looking for a feel-good drama with a lot of heart and some killer musical numbers, Dream High is definitely worth checking out. It's a classic for a reason, and it's a great way to see Kim Soo Hyun before he became the mega-star he is today.

Moon Embracing the Sun (2012): A Historical Romance

Okay, next up, we have Moon Embracing the Sun. Get ready to dive into a world of historical intrigue, romance, and a whole lot of beautiful traditional clothing. In this drama, Kim Soo Hyun plays King Lee Hwon, and let me tell you, he nails the role of a tormented and powerful monarch. The story is set in the Joseon Dynasty and revolves around the love story between the King and a female shaman named Wol (played by Han Ga In). But, of course, it's not that simple. There are political conspiracies, betrayals, and a whole lot of obstacles in their way. What makes Moon Embracing the Sun so captivating is the way it blends romance with political drama. You're constantly on the edge of your seat, wondering who's going to betray who and whether the King and Wol will ever get their happy ending. Kim Soo Hyun's performance is particularly noteworthy. He perfectly captures the King's internal struggles, his loneliness, and his unwavering love for Wol. You can really feel his pain and his determination, and it's impossible not to root for him. The drama also boasts stunning visuals, from the elaborate costumes to the breathtaking scenery. It's a feast for the eyes, and it really transports you to another time and place. If you're a fan of historical dramas with a touch of romance and a whole lot of intrigue, Moon Embracing the Sun is a must-watch. Just be prepared to shed a few tears along the way. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, but it's definitely worth the ride.

My Love from the Star (2013-2014): The Alien Romance

Alright, guys, buckle up because we're about to enter the realm of the extraordinary with My Love from the Star. This drama is iconic, and for good reason. Kim Soo Hyun plays Do Min Joon, an alien who landed on Earth 400 years ago and has been living among humans ever since. He's got superpowers, a cold exterior, and a serious aversion to getting too close to anyone. But then he meets Cheon Song Yi (played by Jun Ji Hyun), a famous actress who's as bubbly and outgoing as he is reserved. Of course, sparks fly, and they embark on a romance that's out of this world (pun intended!). What makes My Love from the Star so unique is its blend of sci-fi, romance, and comedy. You've got the whole alien-living-among-us thing, but you also have these hilarious moments between Do Min Joon and Cheon Song Yi as they navigate their relationship. Kim Soo Hyun and Jun Ji Hyun have incredible chemistry, and their scenes together are always entertaining. The drama also explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the importance of human connection. Do Min Joon has been living on Earth for centuries, but he's always felt like an outsider. Through his relationship with Cheon Song Yi, he learns to open up and embrace his humanity. My Love from the Star is a drama that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in the power of love. It's a must-watch for any K-drama fan, and it's a testament to Kim Soo Hyun's versatility as an actor.

The Producers (2015): A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Next on our list is The Producers. This drama gives you a peek behind the curtain of the Korean television industry, and it's fascinating. Kim Soo Hyun plays Baek Seung Chan, a rookie producer who joins a broadcasting station. He's awkward, clumsy, and totally clueless about the world of entertainment, but he's also earnest and determined to succeed. The drama follows Seung Chan as he learns the ropes and navigates the complex relationships between producers, writers, and celebrities. What makes The Producers so interesting is its realistic portrayal of the television industry. You see the long hours, the intense competition, and the constant pressure to deliver ratings. But you also see the camaraderie, the creativity, and the passion that drives these people to create amazing content. Kim Soo Hyun's performance as Baek Seung Chan is endearing and relatable. You can't help but root for him as he stumbles his way through his first job. The drama also features a stellar cast, including Cha Tae Hyun, Gong Hyo Jin, and IU. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, and their interactions are always entertaining. If you're curious about what goes on behind the scenes of your favorite TV shows, The Producers is definitely worth checking out. It's a witty, insightful, and ultimately heartwarming drama that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the people who work tirelessly to bring you entertainment.

It's Okay to Not Be Okay (2020): A Healing Journey

Last but definitely not least, we have It's Okay to Not Be Okay. This drama is a masterpiece, plain and simple. Kim Soo Hyun plays Moon Gang Tae, a caregiver working at a psychiatric hospital. He's burdened by a difficult past and is constantly sacrificing his own happiness for the sake of his autistic older brother, Moon Sang Tae (played by Oh Jung Se). One day, he meets Go Moon Young (played by Seo Yea Ji), a children's book author with antisocial personality disorder. Their relationship is unconventional and often turbulent, but it's also incredibly healing for both of them. What makes It's Okay to Not Be Okay so special is its exploration of mental health. The drama tackles difficult topics like trauma, anxiety, and depression with sensitivity and nuance. It shows that it's okay to not be perfect, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Kim Soo Hyun's performance is nothing short of brilliant. He perfectly captures Gang Tae's quiet strength, his vulnerability, and his deep-seated pain. Seo Yea Ji is equally captivating as Moon Young, portraying her character's darkness and vulnerability with equal measure. It's Okay to Not Be Okay is a drama that will stay with you long after you've finished watching it. It's a powerful reminder that everyone has their own struggles, and that healing is possible with love, support, and self-acceptance. If you're looking for a drama that will challenge you, move you, and ultimately leave you feeling hopeful, this is it. It's Okay to Not Be Okay is a tour de force, and it's a testament to Kim Soo Hyun's incredible talent.

So, there you have it, folks! A list of Kim Soo Hyun's best dramas that you absolutely need to watch. From musical dreams to historical romance, alien encounters to behind-the-scenes glimpses, and healing journeys, Kim Soo Hyun has proven time and time again that he's one of the most talented and versatile actors in the industry. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be captivated by his incredible performances. Happy watching!