South Korean movie actors born in the year 1928
Here are 7 famous actors from South Korea were born in 1928:
Choi Moo-ryong
Choi Moo-ryong (February 25, 1928 Paju-November 11, 1999 Bucheon) a.k.a. Choe Mu-ryong, Choi Mun-Lyong, Mu-ryong Choi, Choi Mu-ryǒng, Moo-ryong Choi, Choi, Moo-Ryong, Mun-lyong Choi or Choi Mooryong was a South Korean actor, film director and film producer. He had six children, Choi Min-soo, Choi Young-sook, Choi Jin-kyeong, Choi Jung-woo, Choi Hyun-sook and Choi Ye-suk.
Choi Moo-ryong started his career in the film industry in the early 1950s and became known for his roles in films such as "The Flower in Hell" and "A Romantic Papa". He also directed and produced several films throughout his career.
Aside from his contributions to the film industry, Choi Moo-ryong was also a talented athlete. He was a member of the Korean national football team and competed in the 1948 Summer Olympics in London.
Choi Moo-ryong's life was tragically cut short when he passed away in 1999 at the age of 71 due to a heart attack. He is remembered as a beloved actor and filmmaker in South Korea, and his legacy continues to live on through his children who have also pursued careers in the entertainment industry.
Choi Moo-ryong was born as the third son of a wealthy family in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. His father was a politician and his mother was a classical musician. Choi Moo-ryong initially pursued a career in soccer, but his plans changed after he was scouted by a film director. He made his debut in the film "A Flower in Hell" and quickly rose to fame for his good looks and acting skills. Choi Moo-ryong served as a mediator between the government and the Korean Film Industry during the 1970s and became the first president of the Korean Motion Picture Promotion Corporation. Throughout his career, Choi Moo-ryong appeared in more than 200 films and directed 17 films. He was known for his versatility as an actor and his ability to portray both comedic and serious roles. Choi Moo-ryong was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 18th Korean Association of Film Critics Awards in 1999.
Aside from his successful career in the film industry, Choi Moo-ryong was also involved in politics. He was elected as a member of the National Assembly of South Korea in 1963 and served until 1972. During his time in the parliament, he advocated for the film industry and worked to establish policies that would support the growth of Korean cinema. Choi Moo-ryong also showed a great interest in education and established the Choi Moo-ryong Scholarship Foundation to financially assist students in need.
Choi Moo-ryong's impact on Korean cinema was significant and he was considered one of the pioneers of Korean cinema's golden era. He was known for his dedication to creating meaningful and socially relevant films that explored important issues such as poverty and social inequality. Choi Moo-ryong's contributions to Korean cinema as an actor, director, and producer have made him an iconic figure in the history of the Korean film industry.
Throughout his career, Choi Moo-ryong received numerous accolades for his work in the film industry. He won the Best Actor award at the 6th Grand Bell Awards for his role in the film "The Twilight Train" and was nominated for several other awards throughout his career. Choi Moo-ryong was also recognized for his contributions to the development of Korean cinema when he received the Korean National Decoration of Culture in 1973.
Choi Moo-ryong's influence in the film industry extended beyond South Korea. He starred in the American film "Pork Chop Hill" in 1959 and was the first South Korean actor to work in Hollywood. He also collaborated with Japanese filmmakers and starred in several Japanese films.
In addition to his successful career in film and politics, Choi Moo-ryong was also a philanthropist who supported various charitable causes. He was particularly passionate about helping children and established the Choi Moo-ryong Children's Foundation to provide assistance to underprivileged children in South Korea.
Today, Choi Moo-ryong is remembered as one of the most iconic figures in the history of Korean cinema. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of filmmakers in South Korea and beyond.
Choi Moo-ryong was not only a renowned actor and filmmaker but also an accomplished writer. He published several books, including an autobiography titled "My Only Living Hope". In the book, he wrote about his experiences as a soccer player, his journey in the film industry, and his personal life.
Aside from his creative pursuits, Choi Moo-ryong was also involved in promoting cultural exchanges between South Korea and other countries. He served as the president of the Korean-Japanese Cultural Exchange Association and worked to strengthen ties between the two nations.
Choi Moo-ryong's contributions to Korean cinema have been recognized posthumously with the establishment of the Choi Moo-ryong Film Festival, which showcases classic Korean films and celebrates the actor's legacy. His talent and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the film industry, and his contribution to Korean cinema continues to be celebrated today.
Shin Young-kyun
Shin Young-kyun (November 6, 1928 Pyongsan County-) a.k.a. Shin Yeong-gyun, Sin Yeong-gyun, Shin Yeong-kyun, Yeong-gyun Shin, Shin Young-Kyoon, Shin Young-Kyun, Shin Yŏng'gyun or Shin Youngkyun is a South Korean actor, politician, film producer, dentist and entrepreneur. He has two children, Eon-shik Shin and Hye-jin Shin.
Shin Young-kyun started his acting career in 1951 and quickly gained nationwide popularity. He appeared in numerous films and television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Apart from acting, Shin was also a successful film producer, establishing his production company, Shin Film, in 1965. He produced several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, including "Barefooted Youth" and "Aimless Bullet."
In addition to his careers in entertainment and business, Shin also pursued a career in politics. He served as a member of the National Assembly of South Korea from 1978 to 1988.
Shin was a trained and licensed dentist, having studied dentistry at Seoul National University. He also founded a dental clinic and chain of dental supply stores.
Throughout his illustrious career, Shin received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Order of Cultural Merit from the South Korean government. He remains an admired and respected figure in South Korea's entertainment industry and beyond.
Despite his success in acting and business, Shin's political career was not without controversy. He was expelled from the National Assembly in 1988 after being implicated in a bribery scandal. However, he maintained his innocence and continued to be involved in various political and social causes.
Shin was also known for his philanthropy and generosity. He established the Shin Young-Kyun Foundation, which provides scholarships and financial assistance to aspiring artists and students from low-income families. He also donated significant sums of money to various charitable organizations and causes, including disaster relief efforts and the construction of a children's hospital.
In addition to his various accomplishments, Shin was also a talented musician and composer. He wrote and performed several popular songs, including "Older Brother" and "Oriental Flower." He continued to pursue his passion for music and creativity until his passing at the age of 91 in 2020.
Shin's legacy as an accomplished actor, producer, dentist, entrepreneur, politician, and philanthropist continues to inspire and influence generations of South Koreans.
Shin Young-kyun was born in Pyongsan County, North Pyongan Province, which is now part of North Korea. His family moved to Seoul when he was young, where he grew up and attended Kyunggi High School. After graduating from high school, Shin studied dentistry at Seoul National University, where he also participated in the school's drama club. It was during his time at the university that Shin began to develop an interest in acting.
Shin made his film debut in "Crossroads of Youth" in 1956, which led to a string of successful film roles. He became known for his roles in socially conscious films that tackled issues such as poverty and the aftermath of the Korean War. In addition to his films, Shin also appeared in several popular television dramas, including "The Last Match" and "Deep-rooted Tree."
Shin's foray into politics began in the 1970s when he became involved in the Donggyo-dong incident. The incident involved a group of residents protesting against redevelopment plans, which led to a clash with the police. Shin supported the residents and became a vocal advocate for their cause, which eventually led to his election to the National Assembly.
In addition to his political and entertainment careers, Shin was also a successful entrepreneur. He founded Shin Dental Supply and Shinhan Bookstore, among other businesses. Shin was also a strong advocate for environmental protection and was known to participate in various campaigns to preserve the natural landscape of South Korea.
Shin Young-kyun received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Cultural Merit (Gold) from the Korean government. He is remembered as a talented and versatile artist, a successful businessman, and a committed advocate for social justice and environmental protection.
Shin Young-kyun's impact on the entertainment industry in South Korea cannot be overstated. He is known for his exceptional acting talent, which made him one of the country's most beloved actors. He continued to act in films and television shows until his passing in 2020.
Shin's production company, Shin Film, produced some of South Korea's most critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. These films, such as "Barefooted Youth" and "Aimless Bullet," tackled social issues such as poverty, war, and social inequality. Shin Film was a significant force in the development of South Korean cinema, and its legacy continues to influence the industry.
Shin's philanthropy and generosity were also remarkable. His foundation provided financial assistance to artists and students from low-income families, reflecting his commitment to social justice. He also contributed significant sums to charitable causes and was known to participate in various campaigns to protect the environment.
Shin's legacy continues to inspire and influence people in South Korea and beyond. He was a true renaissance man, whose talent and dedication to various fields of work have left a lasting impact on society.
In addition to his many accomplishments, Shin Young-kyun was also deeply devoted to his family. He was married to his wife, Kim Sook-ja, for over six decades until his passing in 2020. Together, they raised two children, Eon-shik Shin and Hye-jin Shin, both of whom went on to have successful careers in the entertainment industry. Eon-shik Shin worked as a director and producer, while Hye-jin Shin became an actress. Shin was known to be a loving and supportive father, and his children have spoken publicly about their admiration and gratitude for him.
Despite his numerous career achievements, Shin remained humble and grounded throughout his life. He was widely respected for his integrity, kindness, and generosity, and was known to be a role model for future generations. His passing in 2020 was a great loss to the South Korean entertainment industry and society as a whole. Shin's legacy, however, continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
Gwak Gyu-seok
Gwak Gyu-seok (November 22, 1928 Anseong-August 31, 1999 New York City) also known as Kwak Guy-seok, Flyboy or Gyu-seok Kwak was a South Korean actor.
He began his acting career in the 1950s after graduating from Seoul National University. Gwak appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including "The Housemaid" (1960), "The Marines Who Never Returned" (1963) and "The General's Mustache" (1968). He was known for his versatile acting skills, which allowed him to take on a variety of roles from comedic to dramatic.
In addition to his film career, Gwak also worked as a theater director and a professor at Kookmin University. He was an influential figure in the South Korean entertainment industry and was respected for his contribution to Korean cinema.
Later in his career, Gwak moved to New York City and continued to work as an actor in American films such as "Year of the Dragon" (1985) and "The Last Emperor" (1987). He passed away in New York City on August 31, 1999, at the age of 70.
Gwak was born in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, and was the fifth of six siblings. He developed a strong interest in acting during his time at Seoul National University and was involved in various student theater productions. Gwak made his film debut in 1955 in the movie "Piagol", but it wasn't until his role in "The Housemaid" that he gained recognition as a talented actor. He went on to star in over 50 films during his career, including "A Water Mill" (1973), "The Return of the Condor Heroes" (1976), and "The Winter That Year Was Warm" (1984).
Apart from his acting career, Gwak was passionate about teaching and founded the Gwak Gyu-seok Acting Studio in 1969, which produced many successful actors, including Lee Duk-hwa and Kim Gap-soo. He also directed plays and musicals, winning critical acclaim for his productions of "The Threepenny Opera" and "Oh, Dad, Poor Dad, Mamma's Hung You in the Closet and I'm Feelin' So Sad".
Gwak's talents were not limited to acting, directing, and teaching. He was also a prolific translator, and his translations of Arthur Miller's plays, including "Death of a Salesman", remain popular in Korea to this day. Gwak was known for his charismatic personality and was beloved by many in the Korean entertainment industry as a mentor and friend.
Gwak's legacy continues to be celebrated in South Korea, and the Gwak Gyu-seok Memorial Museum was established in his honor in Anseong City in 2018.
Gwak Gyu-seok was not just an actor, but an activist as well. He was a vocal critic of the authoritarian government of Park Chung-hee in the 1970s and was even arrested and jailed for his political activism. He was released after a few months and continued to speak out against government censorship and human rights violations. Gwak was a proponent of free expression and believed that artists had a duty to society to use their talents to promote social justice. He was also an advocate for the rights of actors and worked to improve their working conditions, establishing the Korean Actors' Union in 1965. Gwak received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Best Supporting Actor award at the 7th Grand Bell Awards for his role in "The Marines Who Never Returned" and the Best Actor award at the 7th Baeksang Arts Awards for his performance in "A Water Mill." Gwak's contributions to Korean cinema, theater, and activism have left a lasting impact on South Korean culture, and he is remembered as one of the country's most talented and respected artists.
In addition to his activism and cultural contributions, Gwak was also a devout Christian and was actively involved in missionary work. He was a member of the Korean Methodist Church and traveled to various countries, including Cambodia and the Philippines, to spread the word of God. Gwak's faith played an important role in his life and he often discussed the relationship between his faith and his art in interviews. His dedication to both his craft and his spiritual beliefs earned him the respect of many in the Christian community. Despite his passing over 20 years ago, Gwak's impact on Korean cinema and culture continues to be felt and he remains an inspiration to many aspiring actors, activists, and Christians.
Gwak Gyu-seok was born in a small village in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, on November 22, 1928. He belonged to a large family of six siblings, and they were often financially strained. Despite growing up in poverty, Gwak was a gifted student and received a scholarship to attend Seoul National University, where he majored in literature. It was during this time that Gwak discovered his passion for acting and became heavily involved in theater productions. He decided to pursue a career in acting after graduation and made his film debut in 1955.
Gwak's acting career took off after his role in "The Housemaid," which is now considered a classic of Korean cinema. He went on to star in many successful films and television shows, displaying his versatility as an actor. Despite his success, Gwak remained grounded and continued to teach and direct theater productions. He also translated the works of many famous playwrights into Korean, including the plays of Arthur Miller and Tennessee Williams.
Gwak was a vocal critic of the authoritarian government of Park Chung-hee in the 1970s and was known for his political activism. He believed that artists had a duty to use their talents to promote social justice and was arrested and jailed for his beliefs. Gwak's activism extended to improving the working conditions of actors, and he founded the Korean Actors' Union in 1965, which still exists today.
In addition to his religious activities and artistic contributions, Gwak was also a devoted family man. He was married to fellow actress Kim Young-ok, and they had three children together. Despite his busy career and political activities, Gwak made sure to prioritize his family and spent quality time with them whenever possible.
Gwak's passing in 1999 was a great loss to the South Korean entertainment industry and his fans. His legacy as an accomplished actor, director, translator, activist, and devout Christian continues to inspire many to this day. The Gwak Gyu-seok Memorial Museum serves as a reminder of his contributions to Korean culture and his impact on future generations.
Seo Yeong-Chun
Seo Yeong-Chun (August 25, 1928 Korea-November 1, 1986 South Korea) was a South Korean comedian and actor. He had two children, Seo Hyeon-seon and Seo Dong gyun.
Seo Yeong-Chun rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s for his comedic performances in film and television. He appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, including popular titles such as "The General's Mustache," "Singles," and "Pear Blossom." He was known for his quick wit, physical comedy, and ability to imitate various accents and voices.
In addition to his acting work, Seo Yeong-Chun was also a radio DJ and wrote several scripts for television dramas. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Best Actor award at the 5th Blue Dragon Film Awards.
Tragically, Seo Yeong-Chun passed away in 1986 at the age of 58 due to lung cancer. He left behind a legacy as one of South Korea's most beloved comedians and actors.
Seo Yeong-Chun was born in Korea during a time when the country was under Japanese rule. He grew up in poverty and his family struggled to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, Seo Yeong-Chun was determined to become an actor and eventually pursued his dream after graduating from high school.
He began his career in the theater before transitioning to film and television. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented comedian and became a household name in South Korea. His performances were beloved for their humor and relatability, and he often played characters who were struggling to make ends meet, reflecting his own upbringing.
Seo Yeong-Chun was also known for his charitable work, often donating his time and money to various causes. He was a beloved figure in South Korean society, and his death was deeply mourned by fans and fellow actors alike.
Today, Seo Yeong-Chun is remembered as a trailblazing performer who paved the way for future generations of comedians and actors. His films and television shows continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by audiences around the world.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Seo Yeong-Chun was also involved in politics. He served as a member of the National Assembly of South Korea in the 1960s, advocating for the rights of artists and actors. He was known for his outspokenness and willingness to speak out against injustices he saw in society.
Seo Yeong-Chun's impact on South Korean entertainment continues to be felt to this day. He inspired a generation of performers to pursue careers in comedy and acting, and his legacy lives on through his many films and television shows. He was a true innovator, combining humor and pathos to create performances that resonated deeply with audiences. Even years after his death, he remains a beloved figure in South Korean culture and a symbol of hope for those who aspire to make a career in the entertainment industry.
Seo Yeong-Chun's influence on South Korean entertainment can be seen not only in the performers he inspired but also in the many awards named in his honor. The Seo Yeong-Chun Award for Best Comedian is given out annually at the Korean Broadcasting Awards, and the Seo Yeong-Chun Film Festival celebrates his life and work every year in his hometown of Jeonju.
Despite his immense success, Seo Yeong-Chun remained committed to his roots and often visited his hometown to connect with his community. He also remained dedicated to his family, even during the busiest times of his career. His children continue to carry on his legacy in their own ways, with his son, Seo Dong-gyun, becoming a playwright and his daughter, Seo Hyeon-seon, pursuing a career in the arts.
Seo Yeong-Chun's impact on South Korean entertainment and society as a whole cannot be overstated. He was a true pioneer in his field and his influence continues to inspire generations of performers in South Korea and beyond.
In addition to his work in entertainment and politics, Seo Yeong-Chun was also a devoted husband to his wife, Kim Eun-hye, and a loving father to his two children. He often spoke in interviews about the importance of family and how they gave him the strength to pursue his dreams even during the most challenging times of his career.
Despite facing numerous obstacles throughout his life, Seo Yeong-Chun never gave up on his passion for acting and entertaining others. He remained dedicated to his craft until the very end, even continuing to work while battling cancer. Many of his peers and fans noted his resilience and positive attitude as inspiring, and he became a symbol of hope for those facing difficult challenges.
To this day, Seo Yeong-Chun's films and performances are celebrated not only for their comedic value but also for their social significance. He used his platform to address important issues facing society, including poverty, injustice, and political corruption. His work helped to shine a light on these issues and has been credited with inspiring social change in South Korea.
Overall, Seo Yeong-Chun's life and career serve as a testament to the power of determination, talent, and perseverance. He overcame numerous obstacles to achieve success in his chosen field, and his impact on South Korean entertainment and society continues to be felt today.
Il-min Yang
Il-min Yang (July 29, 1928 Seongsu-dong-) a.k.a. Yang Il-min or Yang Ilmin is a South Korean actor and voice actor.
Il-min Yang is widely recognized as one of the pioneers in the Korean entertainment industry, and he has been active in the field since the 1950s. His talent and contributions to the industry are often praised, and he is considered one of the most respected actors in South Korea. In addition to acting, he has also done voice acting work for animated films and television series, further demonstrating his versatility as a performer. Throughout his career, he has received numerous accolades for his work, including the prestigious Order of Cultural Merit, awarded in 2015 by the South Korean government for his contributions to the arts.
Il-min Yang was born in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, South Korea, on July 29, 1928. He began his career in entertainment in the 1950s as an actor, and quickly gained recognition for his talent and skill. He appeared in numerous films and television dramas, earning critical acclaim for his performances in works such as "The Sorrrow of the Night" (1956) and "The Prodigal Daughter" (1960).
In addition to his work as an actor, Il-min Yang also became well-known for his voice acting work. He lent his voice to a number of animated films and television series, including the popular children's show "Pororo the Little Penguin" (2003-present).
Throughout his long and illustrious career, Il-min Yang has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the arts. In addition to the Order of Cultural Merit, he has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Korean Broadcasting Grand Prize and the Actor of the Year Award.
Despite his many achievements, Il-min Yang remains humble and dedicated to his craft, and his continued presence in the entertainment industry is a testament to his enduring talent and influence.
Il-min Yang's impact on South Korean entertainment industry has been immense, and he is considered a pioneer in the field. In addition to his on-screen work, he also served as the chairman of the Korea Media Rating Board, where he advocated for fair and accurate rating systems for films and television programs.
Furthermore, Il-min Yang was also involved in charity work and has been a strong advocate for the welfare of children. He has been a spokesperson for organizations such as the Korean National Committee for UNICEF and the Korea Association of Child Abuse Prevention, using his platform to raise awareness about important issues affecting children in society.
Il-min Yang's contributions to the arts have been recognized not only in his home country but also on the international stage. He was awarded the Best Male Actor award at the Asia-Pacific Film Festival in 1962 for his performance in the film "A Coachman," and he was also honored with the Achievement in Acting Award at the 2016 New York Asian Film Festival.
Il-min Yang's lasting legacy in the entertainment industry continues to inspire new generations of South Korean actors and performers, and his impact on the arts in the country will always be remembered.
Il-min Yang is still active in the entertainment industry, and he continues to work on new projects. In recent years, he has appeared in the hit television dramas "Doctors" (2016) and "The Third Charm" (2018). Despite being in his nineties, he remains as dedicated to his craft as ever, and his passion and energy for acting continue to inspire others. In recognition of his many years of service, Il-min Yang was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the 2019 KBS Drama Awards. He is a true legend of South Korean entertainment, and his contributions to the industry will always be remembered with respect and admiration.
Il-min Yang has also been involved in teaching and mentoring younger actors in South Korea. He taught acting at the Seoul Institute of the Arts and served as a mentor to many aspiring actors in the country, helping to shape the next generation of talent in the industry. His dedication to his craft and willingness to help others has made him a beloved figure in the South Korean entertainment world.
In addition to his work in the arts, Il-min Yang has also been active in politics. He was a member of the National Assembly in the 1970s, where he advocated for the rights of actors and performers in the country. His efforts helped to improve the working conditions and treatment of actors in South Korea, and he was widely respected for his contributions in this regard.
Il-min Yang's achievements and contributions to the arts have made him one of the most revered figures in South Korean entertainment. He has inspired countless actors and performers with his talent and dedication, and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Choi Seong
Choi Seong (October 17, 1928 Uiryeong County-August 24, 2009 Seodaemun District) also known as Choe Seong, Choi Sung, Seong Choi or Sung Choi was a South Korean actor. He had two children, Choi Jung-won and Choi Dae-won.
Choi Seong started his acting career in the 1950s and appeared in over 200 films throughout his career. He was known for his versatility and range, playing a variety of roles in dramas, thrillers, and comedies. Some of his notable works include the films "The General's Son" (1990), "Sopyonje" (1993), and "Peppermint Candy" (1999). In addition to his film work, Choi Seong also appeared in several popular TV dramas, such as "The Odd Family" (1997) and "Country Diaries" (2004). He was awarded the Korean Film Actors' Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006 for his contributions to the film industry. Choi Seong passed away in 2009 at the age of 80.
Choi Seong was born as the youngest of six children to a wealthy family in Uiryeong County, South Gyeongsang Province in Korea. He was interested in acting from a young age and attended the prestigious Seoul National University to pursue his passion. He started his career in the entertainment industry as a radio and stage actor in the 1950s, and soon moved on to work in film and television.
Choi Seong was a prolific actor, appearing in numerous films and TV shows. His performances were acclaimed for their depth and nuance, and he was particularly respected for his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. He was also known for his dedication to his craft, and was admired by his peers for his professionalism and work ethic.
Throughout his career, Choi Seong worked with many of Korea's most respected directors and actors, and was instrumental in shaping the country's film industry. He was regarded as a trailblazer for his innovative approach to acting, and paved the way for many of Korea's most successful actors and actresses.
Despite his success, Choi Seong remained humble and down-to-earth throughout his life. He was deeply committed to his family, and was a loving father and husband. He will always be remembered as one of Korea's greatest actors, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Choi Seong was also known for his philanthropy and dedication to social causes. He was involved in various charitable organizations and was particularly passionate about supporting educational initiatives for underprivileged children. He established the Choi Seong Scholarship Foundation, which provided financial assistance to students in need.In addition to his acting career, Choi Seong was also a respected professor at his alma mater, Seoul National University. He taught drama and film, and was widely regarded as an insightful and inspiring educator. Many of his former students went on to become successful actors and directors in their own right.Choi Seong's contributions to Korean cinema were recognized both in Korea and internationally. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the Best Actor award at the 1992 Taiwan Golden Horse Film Festival for his role in "Sopyonje". He was also a regular participant in international film festivals and served on the jury for several prestigious events, including the Busan International Film Festival in 2000.Truly a multifaceted talent, Choi Seong was not only an outstanding actor but also a devoted family man, respected educator, and advocate for social change. His enduring legacy continues to inspire the Korean film industry and the broader community as a whole.
Choi Seong was also known for his love of music and his mastery of traditional Korean instruments. He was a skilled player of the gayageum, a zither-like stringed instrument, and often incorporated music into his performances. He even composed and performed the music for some of his films, such as "Seopyeonje" (1993) and "The Harmonium in My Memory" (1999). His passion for music extended beyond his acting career, and he collaborated with other musicians to promote traditional Korean music both within Korea and abroad.
Despite his fame and success, Choi Seong remained deeply connected to his roots and was proud of his upbringing in the rural countryside. He often spoke about the importance of preserving traditional Korean culture and promoting the talents of local artists. He was actively involved in cultural exchange programs, and traveled extensively to share Korean arts and culture with other countries.
Choi Seong's impact on Korean cinema and culture is immeasurable, and his legacy lives on today through the many actors and filmmakers who continue to be inspired by his work. He will always be remembered as one of Korea's greatest actors and a true cultural ambassador for his country.
In addition to his impressive acting career, Choi Seong was also a respected voice dubbing actor, lending his voice to many foreign films and TV shows that were dubbed into Korean. He was particularly well-known for his work as the Korean voice of James Bond in several of the franchise's films. His voice talents also extended to animation, where he voiced several characters in Korean-dubbed versions of popular animated movies.
Choi Seong's dedication to improving Korean cinema went beyond his own work; he served on the executive committee of several film organizations and was a mentor to many young actors and filmmakers. He believed in the importance of fostering new talent and passing on his knowledge and experience to future generations.
Despite his impressive resume and widespread acclaim, Choi Seong always remained grounded and focused on the importance of human connection. He was known for his warmth and generosity towards everyone he encountered, from fans to colleagues to strangers. He once said, "Acting is a way of communicating with people. It's not about being prettier, more handsome, or more talented than others. It's about how deeply you can reach out to others and touch their hearts." This philosophy was evident in his work both on and off screen, and remains a testament to his enduring legacy.
Park Gi-Su
Park Gi-Su (March 6, 1928 Korea under Japanese rule-) also known as Park Gi-soo or Ki-su Park is a South Korean actor.
He began his acting career in 1956 with the film "The Hand of Destiny" and went on to star in numerous films and television dramas throughout his career, including "Mother and a Guest", "The Members of the Funeral", and "The Age of Success". He is known for his versatile acting skills and has played a wide range of roles, from comical to dramatic. In addition to his acting career, Park was also a professor of acting at Chung-Ang University. He received many accolades throughout his career, including the Best Actor award at the 1985 Korea Drama Awards. Despite retiring from acting in 2007, he remains a respected figure in the Korean entertainment industry.
Park Gi-Su was born in Hwangju, near present-day Sinan-ri, Paju-si, Gyeonggi Province, Korea during the era of Japanese occupation. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Law but pursued his passion for acting instead. In the 1950s, he joined the Mokhwa Drama Company, who were popular for making films with melodramatic and didactic themes. Park appeared in many films by director Kim Ki-young, including "The Housemaid" (1960), which was later remade internationally.
Park is also known for his contributions to Korean theater. He was the founder of the National Theater Company of Korea and participated in various productions throughout the years. He was also a prolific translator of Western plays, having translated more than 40 plays throughout his lifetime.
In 2006, Park published his memoir titled "Acting, My Life," which details his decades-long career in the Korean entertainment industry, as well as his experiences as an educator. Despite retiring from acting in 2007, Park continued to give lectures on acting and the performing arts, making him an important figure in the training of aspiring actors in South Korea until his passing in 2013 at the age of 85.
Park Gi-Su's contributions to the entertainment industry and the arts were recognized by the South Korean government. In 2000, he received the prestigious Order of Cultural Merit for his cultural achievements. Park was also actively involved in promoting Korean culture abroad. He was a member of the Korea Foundation for International Culture Exchange, which aimed to introduce Korean culture to the international community. In 1993, Park was appointed as an honorary ambassador for cultural exchange by the South Korean government.
Aside from his career in entertainment and the arts, Park was also involved in various social causes. He was vocal about environmental issues and served as the chairman of the Korea Green Foundation, which aimed to promote sustainability and protect the environment. Park was also a devout Buddhist and contributed to the renovation of Buddhist temples in Korea. He was a member of the Jogye Order, one of the largest Buddhist orders in South Korea.
Park Gi-Su's legacy in the Korean entertainment industry and the arts continues to inspire and influence aspiring actors and artists in South Korea. His contributions to promoting Korean culture and environmental awareness also leave a lasting impact on Korean society.
Park Gi-Su's versatility as an actor did not go unnoticed, as he won several awards throughout his career. In addition to the 1985 Korea Drama Awards, he also won the Best Actor award at the 1986 Baeksang Arts Awards and the 1993 KBS Drama Awards. Park continued his prolific acting career well into his 70s and starred in his last film, "Mapado 2: Back to the Island" in 2007, before retiring from acting.
Park's impact on the Korean entertainment industry has been recognized by his peers and successors. In 2003, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the SBS Drama Awards, which he dedicated to his fellow actors and those who worked with him throughout his career.
In addition to his achievements in acting and theater, Park's contributions to education and cultural exchange have also been widely acknowledged. He served as the president of the Korean Association of Film Art Education and was an active member of the Korean Association of Theater Education. He was also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Korea Institute of Culture and Tourism and participated in various activities promoting Korean culture abroad.
Despite his passing, Park continues to be remembered and celebrated by his fans and colleagues in the Korean entertainment industry. In 2014, the 1st Park Gi-Su Film Festival was held in his honor, featuring several of his films and commemorating his outstanding contributions to Korean cinema.
Park Gi-Su was not only a talented actor and educator, but also a devoted family man. In 1955, he married actress Kim Ji-Mi, whom he had met while working as a stage actor. They remained married until Kim's passing in 2004. Together, they had one daughter named Park Mi-kyung, who followed in her parents' footsteps and became an actress herself. Park Gi-Su was deeply proud of his daughter's achievements, and supported her throughout her acting career. He once stated that he hoped his daughter would have more success in the entertainment industry than he did, and expressed great admiration for her talent and dedication.