As we step into 2026, it’s time to celebrate the Lunar New Year and all the excitement it brings. This year, the spotlight is on those born in the Year of the Horse! Known for their energy, charm, and independence, these individuals are often the life of the party and the ones who inspire others to chase their dreams.
The Year of the Horse is associated with qualities like energy, independence, determination, and a free-spirited nature. People born under this sign are often ambitious, adventurous, and have a strong drive to succeed, which makes them natural leaders and go-getters. They are also known for their charisma, creativity, and optimism, which often draws others to them.
Did you know that a surprising number of Korean celebrities were born in the Year of the Horse? Many of them fall into the birth years 1978, 1990, and 2002, representing multiple generations of talent. These stars have starred in popular K-Dramas, while others are more known as a K-Pop idol. Now, let’s take a look at their shows you can stream on KOCOWA+!
K-Drama Stars Born In The Year of The Horse
Lim Yoon A
Lim Yoon A, born in the Year of the Horse, is a true all-rounder who has successfully made her mark in both K-pop and K-dramas. As a member of Girls’ Generation, she is widely recognized as one of the original visual icons of K-pop. Now, she is more known in K-Dramas as all of her projects are a hit. One of our favorite roles from her is when she starred in the slice-of-life comedy film “Miracle: Letters to the President,” where she showcased her bright charm and natural chemistry.
Lee Jun Ho
Born in the year of the horse, Lee Jun Ho is one of the most-loved K-Drama actors of today. As a member of the K-Pop boy group 2PM, he is known for his powerful stage presence and charismatic performances, but his acting career has been just as impressive! He earned praise for his emotional depth in “Rain or Shine,” where he portrayed a man healing from past trauma.
Park Shin Hye
Park Shin Hye is one of the most beloved K-drama actresses born in the Year of the Horse, known for her long-standing career and impressive versatility. She became our favorite with her emotional acting and has since become a trusted name in romantic and melodramatic series. In “Pinocchio,” she stars as a rookie reporter with a unique condition that makes her hiccup whenever she lies. The drama became a massive hit and is still considered one of her most iconic works!
Namkoong Min
Another favorite actor born in the year of the horse is Namkoong Min, who is one of South Korea’s most respected and versatile actors today. He is known for his powerful acting and ability to completely transform for every role. Every year, we witness him in a different character, and one of our favorite performances from him is when he portrayed Lee Jang Hyun of “My Dearest,” showing us a beautiful romance historical melodrama!
Choi Soo Young
Choi Soo Young is another Year of the Horse star who shines both as a K-pop idol and a K-drama actress. Best known as a member of Girls’ Generation, she has also built a steady acting career by taking on diverse and meaningful roles. In “Fanletter, Please,” she delivers a heartfelt performance as a top actress who gets entangled with her first love, who is now a single father, showing her emotional maturity and natural warmth on screen.
Lim Ji Yeon
A recent underrated K-Drama actress who has now become a household name, Lim Ji Yeon, was also born in the year of the horse. She has steadily built a strong reputation through her powerful and memorable performances. One of her notable recent projects is “The Tale of Lady Ok,” where she showcases her ability to lead a historical drama as a runaway slave turned noblewoman!
Lee Sung Kyoung
Lee Sung Kyoung, also born in the Year of the Horse, has made a name for herself in the K-Drama world with memorable roles like her performance in “Dr. Romantic 2.” She is known for her warm and relatable screen presence, which made her a fan-favorite all over the world!
Choi Hyun Wook
Choi Hyun Wook is a rising Year of the Horse star who is capturing our hearts with his compelling performance. In “Weak Hero Class 1,” he was able to convey complex emotions and has quickly become a favorite among fans of youth and action dramas! This drama showcased his versatility, showing he’s the next big thing!
K-Pop Stars Born In The Year of The Horse
aespa Ningning
aespa’s Ningning is a Year of the Horse idol who shines not only on stage but also in variety and reality shows. As the main vocalist of aespa, she is known for her impressive vocal range. One of the best ways to get to know her more is through “aespa’s Synk Road,” a reality show that follows the members as they travel together and take on fun missions. The show highlights Ningning’s bright energy, humor, and close bond with her fellow members!
TXT Kai and Taehyun
TXT’s Taehyun and Hueningkai are Year of the Horse idols known for their sharp intelligence, stable vocals, and all-rounder talent. As a member of TOMORROW X TOGETHER, they are known for their strong stage presence. We get to see more of their relaxed and fun side through TXT’s reality show “TO DO X TXT.” In this series, they showcased their competitive spirit, quick wit, and chemistry with the members as they take on games, missions, and everyday challenges together!
Enhypen Jay, Jake, and Sunghoon
ENHYPEN’s Jay, Jake, and Sunghoon are Year of the Horse idols who are loved for their talent and personality. They showcased a different side of themselves through “EN-Drama,” where we got to see them in a more playful, story-driven setting. We get to see them explore light acting, humor, and natural interactions, making it a fun and refreshing watch!
There are really a lot of popular celebrities born in the year of the horse. Let’s get to know them more by watching their shows and series available for streaming on KOCOWA+ with multiple subtitle options!
