The making of Song Joong-ki: six formative film and TV roles that charted the Korean actor’s evolution into a superstar
- Song made his film debut in period action-drama A Frozen Flower in 2008, where he had few lines but appeared throughout the movie
- His leading role in underrated 2011 film Penny Pinchers remains one of his best, while his post-military drama Descendants of the Sun became a huge global hit
Last month was a special one for fans of Korean film and television. One of the country’s biggest stars returned to screens in not just one but two major new projects.
Two years after the drama series Arthdal Chronicles, Song Joong-ki is back with the sci-fi action-drama Space Sweepers and the mafia-infused action-comedy drama Vincenzo, both streaming worldwide on Netflix.
Song has captured the hearts of viewers ever since his debut more than a decade ago. Thanks to his steadily maturing performances, he has won the respect of anyone who wasn’t already enthralled by his clear skin, bright smile and easy charm.
Though he debuted relatively late compared to his famous peers – he was 22 when he appeared in a supporting role in the SBS drama Get Karl! Oh Soo Jung in 2007 – he quickly shot to stardom and has been very selective about his roles ever since.
Here are six formative roles that turned Song into the powerhouse he is today.
A Frozen Flower (2008)
Song made his film debut in director Yoo Ha’s steamy Goryeo era (918–1392) period action-drama, a tale of queer love between a king and his general that reaches a bloody, jealousy-fuelled climax. Song’s role here, as No-tak, one of the loyal soldiers of Hong-lim (Jo In-sung), is one with few lines, but he appears throughout the film.
