Korean Actors Who Snagged Big Roles in Big Hollywood Releases
The Korean invasion has made it to Hollywood! Not only are K-pop acts infiltrating American music charts, but even Korean stars are also lighting up the silver screens! Here's a list of some of the Korean actors and actresses that made it big in Hollywood!
Lee Byung Hun
Most popular appearances: G.I Joe: The Rise of Cobra, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, RED 2
Lee Byung Hun is perhaps one of the most recognizable Korean actors that made it to the big time in Hollywood. Lee Byung Hun was born and raised in South Korea where he first started his career as an actor. Lee Byung Hun became a household name when he took on the role of Storm Shadow in the hit "G.I. Joe" franchise. His next big Hollywood project is set to hit the big screen, and that's "Terminator Genisys".
Bae Doo Na
Most popular appearances: Cloud Atlas, Jupiter Ascending
Bae Doona received praise for her amazing performance in the critically acclaimed film "Cloud Atlas". She has received multiple nominations from several award winning bodies, and ranked 3rd place in the Best Support Actress category at the International Online Cinema Awards for her role in "Cloud Atlas".
Rain
Most popular appearances: Ninja Assassin, Speed Racer
Rain made his Hollywood breakthrough in "Speed Racer" where he starred alongside Emile Hirsch, Susan Sarandon, and more. He took on his first lead role in "Ninja Assassin", for which he won the "Biggest Badass" award at the MTV Movie Awards. (He edged out big stars Channing Tatum, Chris Pine, Sam Worthington, and Angelina Jolie for this award!)
Choi Min Sik
Most popular appearances: Lucy
Veteran actor Choi Min Sik, best known for his acclaimed performance in the Korean thriller "Oldboy", appeared in the movie sci-fi movie "Lucy" which stars Scarlett Johansson and Morgan Freeman. Although Choi Min Sik's character gets killed off in the first half of the film, it's undeniable that his great acting made for a very intimidating and forceful bad guy.
Kim Soo Hyun (Claudia Kim)
Most popular appearances: The Avengers: Age of Ultron
Not to be confused with "Man From The Stars" actor Kim Soo Hyun, Claudia Kim snagged the coveted role in the second movie of "The Avengers" franchise. She stars as geneticist Helen Cho, who works very closely with the team of superheroes. Her acting has earned her praise from her colleagues, particularly the witty and charming Robert Downey Jr.
