Gong Yoo (Hangul: 공유) is a South Korean actor. He started his career in showbiz as a VJ and subsequently debuted with parts in school dramas and films, eventually gaining starring roles in prime time dramas such Hello My Teacher and One Fine Day. His role as a cafe manager who falls in love with a girl disguised as a man in romantic comedy The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince solidified his status as a drama leading man. The popularity of the drama made him a regional star. After serving the 2-year compulsory military service, Gong Yoo made his comeback with romantic comedy Finding Mr Destiny and Silenced, a film project spearheaded by the actor himself upon reading the book based on the real events of deaf students being sexually exploited by the staff in a South Korean special school. Gong took on the role as a North Korean agent in action film the suspect in 2013. His post-military television comeback Big was however, not as well received. While Gong remained popular with Korean audience and brand sponsors, he experienced somewhat of a career renaissance in 2016 with box office hits Train to Busan and Age of Shadows, as well as one of the most-viewed Korean cable television drama, Goblin.
July 10, 1979
Busan, South Korea
N/A
Acting
Gong Ji-cheol, born on July 10, 1979, in Busan, South Korea, is widely recognized as Gong Yoo. He is a talented South Korean actor, celebrated for his prominent roles in various television series and films, including the hit shows Coffee Prince (2007) and Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016–2017). He also gained international fame from the acclaimed Netflix series Squid Game (2021–2024) and films such as Train to Busan (2016) and Silenced (2011).
Gong Yoo is the second child and only son of Gong Won and Yoo Myung-joo. His father was a manager for the Lotte Giants baseball team during the 1980s. Gong attended Dongin High School and later pursued a degree in theater and film from Kyung Hee University.
In a fascinating twist, Gong Yoo is listed in the genealogy of the Gokbu Gong clan, recognized as a descendant of the ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius. His family background connects him to both royal heritage and a long lineage in Korea.
Career Beginnings: Gong Yoo's career began in 2000 as a video jockey on Mnet. He made his acting debut in the series School 4 (2001) and took on various supporting roles in dramas and films. In 2004, he hosted the music program Music Camp.
Breakthrough Role: His breakout role came in 2007 with the romantic comedy series Coffee Prince. The show's immense popularity transformed him into a leading man and a star of the Korean Wave, also known as hallyu.
Military Service and Comeback: On January 14, 2008, Gong Yoo enlisted for mandatory military service, completing it on December 8, 2009. After his service, he returned to the screen with Finding Mr. Destiny and later led the impactful film Silenced, which prompted significant social change in South Korea.
Subsequently, he appeared in the romantic-comedy series Big (2012) and the action film The Suspect (2013). In 2013, he was appointed as a UNICEF special representative in Korea, advocating for children's rights globally.
Resurgence in Career: Gong Yoo's career saw a remarkable resurgence in 2016 with several hit projects, including the zombie thriller Train to Busan and the period action film The Age of Shadows. In December 2016, he starred in the hugely popular drama Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, earning the Best Actor award at the Baeksang Arts Awards.
In 2018, he took on a significant role in the feminist film Kim Ji-young: Born 1982, marking his third collaboration with actress Jung Yu-mi. In March 2020, Gong Yoo confirmed a special appearance in the highly anticipated film Wonderland.
In 2021, he starred in the action thriller film Seo Bok and appeared in the first season of Squid Game. His character, a recruiter, received positive reviews, and he reprised the role in the upcoming second season set for release in 2024. Later that year, he played a significant role in the Netflix sci-fi thriller series The Silent Sea, which topped global charts upon its release.
Gong Yoo's journey from a video jockey to a celebrated actor is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft. His performances resonate with audiences worldwide, continuing to amplify his influence in the entertainment industry.
