Kim Soo-Hyun Is Otherwordly!

Just two months after his military discharge, Hallyu superstar Kim Soo-Hyun is ready to get back to work. But before he has his official comeback, he’ll make an appearance in the finale of the K-Drama “Hotel Del Luna” (set to air on Aug. 31). Production is being hush-hush, so we don’t know if his role will be that of a mortal or a ghost guest.

The Big Three: Ji Chang-Wook, Lee Min-Ho, Kim Soo-Hyun

Hallelujah! Kim Soo-Hyun, Ji Chang-Wook and Lee Min-Ho will be discharged from their mandatory military duties in South Korea later this year. As fans anxiously await their comebacks, let’s head back in time to revisit some of the actors’ most iconic work.

“One Ordinary Day” (어느 날)

As Hyun-soo, Kim Soo-hyun is superb in a difficult role where he has to be sympathetic, but also could be a cold-blooded and manipulative killer. His role requires him to cry in a manner that allows viewers to feel his panic and fears. And Kim comes through again superbly, proving he is one of the best actors of his generation.

Who’s Your Favorite K-Drama Appa?

Ahn Nae-Sang is one of my favorite actors. He has a small role in this K-Drama, but it’s pivotal. He plays the king, who prepares his son (played by Kim Soo-Hyun) for his role as the nation’s leader. He comes across as cold in the beginning, showering little affection of either of his sons.

“Secretly, Greatly” (은밀하게 위대하게)

“Secretly, Greatly” starts off as a comedy and veers off into a drama with a graphic, violent ending. Had the film stuck to one genre, the result would’ve been more cohesive and effective. Still, it’s a worthwhile film that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Kim Soo-Hyun shows impressive range in his dual portrayal of a North Korean spy and the dimwitted village idiot that’s his cover.

All-Time Best K-dramas

Each of us has our own favorite K-dramas that are informed by our own personal experiences (and access). For instance, I was never able to get my hands on South Korea’s early dramas like “Death Row Prisoner,” which premiered in 1956. Therefore, my picks are influenced by what I’ve seen, which are primarily shows from 2000 onward.