Do Ji-han's birthday special: Exploring Korean actor's top performances
What's the story
From doing sageuk (historical) dramas to heartwarming rom-coms, versatile Korean actor Do Ji-han has left an indelible mark on the Korean entertainment industry. Best known for his breakout role in The Tower (2012), which earned him a Baeksang Arts Award nomination, Do has consistently delivered impeccable performances since his debut. On his 32nd birthday on Sunday, we explore Do's must-watch K-dramas and films.
#1
'Lovers in Bloom' (2017)
Lovers in Bloom is centered around Moo Goong-Hwa (played by Im Soo-hyang), a former boxer who steps into the shoes of a police officer after the tragic loss of her husband. Her colleague, Cha Tae-jin (Do), stands as a high-ranking police officer driven by an unwavering commitment to justice. At the intersection of their different worlds, the story takes its fascinating turn.
#2
'Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth' (2016-17)
The TV series—set against the Silla Kingdom (57 BC-AD 935)—tells the story of an elite group of young men who embark on a journey of self-discovery, forging deep bonds of friendship and love amidst the kingdom's chaos. Do portrayed Park Ban-ryu—who is gifted with a profound understanding of politics from an early age—is seen as a character driven by an unyielding desire for power.
#3
'The Tower' (2012)
The Tower—helmed by Kim Ji-hoon—is set in Seoul on a fateful Christmas Eve, where the story unfolds with the eruption of a devastating fire in a luxurious skyscraper. Do takes on the role of a rookie fireman. In this high-stakes scenario, Do's portrayal showcases not only his acting prowess but also his incredible skills as an emerging sensation in the Korean film industry.
#4
'The Neighbors' (2012)
In the 2012 suspense-thriller The Neighbors, viewers are plunged into the confines of an apartment building where residents find that one among them may be a serial killer responsible for the tragic murder of a young girl from a residing family. Stepping into this web of intrigue is Do, who plays Ahn Sang-yoon—the neighborhood pizza delivery boy—whose character adds a layer of mystery.