As the new year begins, let’s take a moment to celebrate the lucky stars born in the Year of the Snake! Many of our favorite Korean celebrities share this zodiac sign, and we’ve compiled a list of these talented individuals along with their must-watch shows available on KOCOWA+.
Year of the Snake Korean Celebrities
Kim Hye Ja
Born in 1941, Kim Hye Ja is one of Korea’s most respected veteran actresses, with a career spanning several decades. She is known for her heartwarming and impactful performances like in the classic drama “Princess Hours.” She also starred in “The Light In Your Eyes,” where she portrayed a woman grappling with the challenges of aging. This unforgettable role earned her the prestigious Daesang (Grand Prize) at the Baeksang Arts Awards!
Kim Hee Seon
Kim Hee Seon who was born in 1977, is one of the most iconic actresses in Korean drama celebrated for her timeless beauty and exceptional acting skills. In “Alice,” she played a brilliant scientist involved in a time-traveling mystery, highlighting her range and action skills. She also shone in “The Lady in Dignity,” portraying an elegant and ambitious woman in a gripping tale of betrayal and power, which became a massive hit!
Park Hae Il
The critically acclaimed actor Park Hae Il, born in 1977, is renowned for his powerful performances in films. In “Eungyo,” he delivered a deeply emotional portrayal of an aging poet entangled in a bittersweet, complex relationship. His role in “The King’s Letters” as a Buddhist monk brought history to life with a detailed and moving performance.
Kim Woo Bin
Born in 1989, Kim Woo Bin is a powerhouse in the K-drama world, known for his magnetic presence and deep acting skills. He became a household name with his role as the rebellious yet vulnerable Choi Young Do in “The Heirs.” His performance in “School 2013” further showcased his emotional depth as he played a troubled student searching for redemption.
Lee Jong Suk
Lee Jong Suk, also born in 1989, is one of South Korea’s most beloved Hallyu stars. Known for his ability to bring heartfelt and relatable characters to life, he has charmed fans worldwide. In “While You Were Sleeping,” he portrayed a prosecutor who dreams of preventing tragedies, while in “Pinocchio,” he played a reporter determined to uncover the truth. His acting and charm made him a fan favorite!
Jung Yong Hwa
Born in 1989, Jung Yong Hwa is a true multi-talented star who has made his mark as both an actor and a K-pop idol. He displayed his comedic charm and sharp wit in “Brain Works,” where he played a quirky neuroscientist, earning plenty of laughs. He also impressed everyone with his dramatic range in “Sell Your Haunted House,” portraying a fraud-turned-psychic.
SNSD Taeyeon, Tiffany, Hyoyeon
SNSD’s iconic members Taeyeon, Tiffany, and Hyoyeon were all born in 1989, and their influence as part of Girls’ Generation (SNSD) has cemented their status as legends in the K-pop world. Often called the “Nation’s Girl Group.” Now flourishing as solo artists, Taeyeon and Hyoyeon continue to captivate audiences with their talent, frequently seen performing on music shows like “Show! Music Core.” Meanwhile, Tiffany recently appeared in the variety show “The Dog I Encountered.”
aespa Winter
The ace member of the group, Winter, was born in 2001 and is known for her mesmerizing vocals and captivating stage presence. Beyond music, she’s shown her relatable and cheerful personality in variety shows like “Country Life of Gen-Z” and in the group’s reality travel show “aespa’s Synk Road.” With her charm, down-to-earth attitude, and undeniable talent, Winter continues to win hearts on and off stage.
TXT Beomgyu
Beomgyu, also born in 2001, is a key member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), whose performances leave us in awe. He’s showcased his playful charisma on variety shows like “Weekly Idol,” where fans got to see his fun and energetic side. Alongside his group, Beomgyu has captivated everyone on music programs such as “Music Bank K-Chart,” showing his talent as a K-pop idol.
RIIIZE Sungchan
Sungchan, born in 2001, is a rising star in the K-pop scene with his confident stage presence and multifaceted talent. He showed his humor and playful side on the group’s reality show “BOSS RIIZE.” Additionally, as an MC on “SBS Inkigayo” alongside IVE’s An Yu Jin and TREASURE’s Jihoon, Sungchan has earned praise for his professionalism and infectious energy.
Kim Jae Won
Rising star Kim Jae Won, also born in 2001, is already turning heads as a promising K-drama male lead. His role in the ongoing historical drama “The Tale of Lady Ok” has made him a fan favorite, making it one of the most talked-about K-dramas at the moment. With his nuanced portrayal of complex emotions, Kim Jae Won’s future in acting looks incredibly bright.
Who’s your favorite celebrity from this list? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re missing them already, check out their dramas, movies, variety shows, and more on KOCOWA+—available with multiple subtitle options!
