Korean dramas have become more than just entertainment — they’re emotions stitched in stories, music, and memories. From Descendants of the Sun to Hotel Del Luna, these shows have made us laugh, cry, and dream. Behind these unforgettable moments stand the shining stars of South Korea — women whose grace, talent, and emotion transcend borders.
- The Rise of Korean Actresses in Global Entertainment
- The Top 10 Highest-Paid Korean Actresses in 2025
- 1. Lee Young-ae – The Timeless Queen of Korean Drama
- 2. IU (Lee Ji-eun) – The Soulful Voice of the Nation
- 3. Song Hye-kyo – The Epitome of Elegance
- 4. Jun Ji-hyun – The Goddess of Charm
- 5. Bae Suzy – The Nation’s Sweetheart
- 6. Go Hyun-jung – The Graceful Comeback Queen
- 7. Kim Tae-hee – The Symbol of Beauty and Brilliance
- 8. Choi Ji-woo – The Classic Legend
- 9. Gong Hyo-jin – The Queen of Relatable Roles
- 10. Park Bo-young – The Heart of Korean Romance
- Conclusion – Beyond Money, They Inspire Millions
- Who is the highest-paid Korean actress in 2025?
- Which Korean actress is most popular internationally?
- How much do top Korean actresses earn per episode?
- Which Korean actress has the biggest social media following?
- Are these Korean actresses only famous in Korea?
- Who might become the next highest-paid Korean actress?
In this heartfelt feature, we celebrate the Top 10 Highest-Paid Korean Actresses in 2025, who not only dominate screens but also our hearts. These are the Top 10 Korean Actresses in 2025 whose art has given millions of fans around the world something to believe in.
The Rise of Korean Actresses in Global Entertainment
The Korean entertainment industry, once local and humble, is now a global sensation. These Korean actresses are not just performers — they are global icons representing resilience, style, and sophistication.
From Seoul to San Francisco, audiences adore their work on Netflix, Viki, and Disney+. The Highest Paid Korean Actresses of 2025 are not just about luxury contracts or high fees; they embody emotional storytelling, discipline, and years of dedication that earned them this glory.
The Top 10 Highest-Paid Korean Actresses in 2025
Let’s meet the stunning queens who define this era of Korean entertainment — a blend of passion, perfection, and pure artistry.
| Rank | Actress Name | Net Worth | Per Episode Fee | Popular Works |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lee Young-ae | ~$55 million | $84,000 | Jewel in the Palace, Inspector Koo |
| 2 | IU (Lee Ji-eun) | ~$50 million | — | Hotel Del Luna, Dream, Broker |
| 3 | Song Hye-kyo | ~$42 million | $50,000 | The Glory, Descendants of the Sun |
| 4 | Go Hyun-jung | ~$38 million | $42,000 | Reflection of You, Queen Seondeok |
| 5 | Bae Suzy | ~$35 million | — | Start-Up, Vagabond, Doona! |
| 6 | Jun Ji-hyun | ~$40 million | $84,000 | My Love from the Star, Kingdom |
| 7 | Choi Ji-woo | ~$31 million | $42,000 | Winter Sonata, Temptation |
| 8 | Kim Tae-hee | ~$30 million | $33,500 | Hi Bye, Mama!, Yong-pal |
| 9 | Gong Hyo-jin | ~$25 million | $36,500 | When the Camellia Blooms, It’s Okay That’s Love |
| 10 | Park Bo-young | ~$23 million | $27,300 | Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Daily Dose of Sunshine |
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1. Lee Young-ae – The Timeless Queen of Korean Drama
Her elegance is unmatched. From Jewel in the Palace to Inspector Koo, Lee Young-ae has carried herself with poise and humility. Even after decades, she remains one of the most respected Korean actresses, admired for her grace and intelligence. Her calm performances make us believe in love, hope, and destiny.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lee Young-ae |
| @leeyoungae0824 | |
| Famous Drama | Jewel in the Palace |
| Net Worth | ~$55 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $84,000 |
| Recognition | Cultural Ambassador of Korea |
2. IU (Lee Ji-eun) – The Soulful Voice of the Nation
IU is a name that touches hearts. From her emotional songs to her stunning roles in Hotel Del Luna and Broker, she continues to prove that art comes from within. Every smile she gives on screen hides a story of struggle, patience, and self-belief. She’s a true inspiration to every dreamer.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lee Ji-eun (IU) |
| @dlwlrma | |
| Famous Drama | Hotel Del Luna |
| Net Worth | ~$50 Million |
| Profession | Singer, Actress |
| Special Mention | Known for emotional songwriting |
3. Song Hye-kyo – The Epitome of Elegance
Every time Song Hye-kyo appears on screen, she reminds us what true beauty and depth mean. From Descendants of the Sun to The Glory, her performance is full of quiet power. She stands tall among the Top 10 Korean Actresses in 2025, not just for her fame, but for her authenticity and emotional strength.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Song Hye-kyo |
| @kyo1122 | |
| Famous Drama | The Glory |
| Net Worth | ~$42 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $50,000 |
| Global Impact | Brand ambassador for Fendi and Chaumet |
4. Jun Ji-hyun – The Goddess of Charm
Who can forget her laughter and spark in My Love from the Star? Jun Ji-hyun brings both elegance and humor to every frame. She has proven time and again why she’s one of the Highest Paid Korean Actresses — her presence alone can light up a screen.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jun Ji-hyun |
| @giannajunfp | |
| Famous Drama | My Love from the Star |
| Net Worth | ~$40 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $84,000 |
| Awards | Grand Bell Award for Best Actress |
5. Bae Suzy – The Nation’s Sweetheart
Suzy is proof that dreams do come true. From her early K-pop days to powerful drama roles in Start-Up and Vagabond, she has grown into one of the most beloved Korean actresses in the world. Her journey reflects determination wrapped in innocence.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bae Su-ji |
| @skuukzky | |
| Famous Drama | Start-Up |
| Net Worth | ~$35 Million |
| Brand Deals | Dior, Guess, Lancome |
6. Go Hyun-jung – The Graceful Comeback Queen
Her story is one of resilience. After years away from the screen, Go Hyun-jung returned with powerful roles like Reflection of You, proving that true passion never fades. She remains a role model for women who choose to rise again.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Go Hyun-jung |
| N/A | |
| Famous Drama | Reflection of You |
| Net Worth | ~$38 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $42,000 |
7. Kim Tae-hee – The Symbol of Beauty and Brilliance
Known for her angelic charm and brilliant mind, Kim Tae-hee continues to captivate audiences. Her portrayal in Hi Bye, Mama! showed her emotional depth as both an actress and a mother. She truly represents balance — beauty with brains.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kim Tae-hee |
| @kimtaehee99 | |
| Famous Drama | Hi Bye, Mama! |
| Net Worth | ~$30 Million |
| Education | Seoul National University |
8. Choi Ji-woo – The Classic Legend
Choi Ji-woo defined K-dramas for an entire generation. Her role in Winter Sonata made millions cry and fall in love. Even today, she stands among the Top 10 Highest-Paid Korean Actresses in 2025, proving that legacy never fades.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Choi Ji-woo |
| @choijiwoo_cjw | |
| Famous Drama | Winter Sonata |
| Net Worth | ~$31 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $42,000 |
9. Gong Hyo-jin – The Queen of Relatable Roles
No one does natural acting like Gong Hyo-jin. Her characters in When the Camellia Blooms and It’s Okay, That’s Love make us feel seen and understood. She’s that rare actress who brings warmth to every role.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gong Hyo-jin |
| @rovvxhyo | |
| Famous Drama | When the Camellia Blooms |
| Net Worth | ~$25 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $36,500 |
10. Park Bo-young – The Heart of Korean Romance
Park Bo-young’s innocent yet powerful acting in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon captured the world’s heart. She’s a reminder that kindness can be powerful too. Among the Top 10 Korean Actresses in 2025, she’s the most genuine soul of them all.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Park Bo-young |
| @boyoung0212_official | |
| Famous Drama | Strong Woman Do Bong Soon |
| Net Worth | ~$23 Million |
| Per Episode Fee | $27,300 |
Why Fans Love These Korean Actresses
Each of these Korean actresses has something more valuable than fame — emotional connection. They teach us courage, love, and resilience through every role they play. Fans don’t just watch them; they grow with them. That’s what makes this list of Top 10 Highest-Paid Korean Actresses in 2025 so special — it’s a celebration of heart, not just wealth.
Conclusion – Beyond Money, They Inspire Millions
When we watch IU smile, or Song Hye-kyo cry, we don’t just see acting — we feel life itself. These Highest Paid Korean Actresses remind us that success is built on passion, pain, and persistence.
The Top 10 Korean Actresses in 2025 are not just stars of Korea — they are the emotional ambassadors of an entire generation. Their stories remind us that fame fades, but feelings never do.
✨ Which of these actresses touched your heart the most? Tell us in the comments — because every fan has their own Korean queen.
Who is the highest-paid Korean actress in 2025?
The highest-paid Korean actress in 2025 is Lee Young-ae, known for her classic role in Jewel in the Palace. With her remarkable grace and legacy, she continues to earn millions from dramas, endorsements, and brand ambassadorships.
Which Korean actress is most popular internationally?
IU (Lee Ji-eun) and Song Hye-kyo are loved worldwide for their emotional performances and natural beauty. Both actresses have massive fanbases across Asia, Europe, and even Hollywood.
How much do top Korean actresses earn per episode?
On average, the Highest Paid Korean Actresses earn between $25,000 to $85,000 per episode, depending on their experience, brand value, and platform exclusivity (like Netflix or tvN).
Which Korean actress has the biggest social media following?
Bae Suzy and IU top the list with millions of followers on Instagram. Their influence goes far beyond acting — they’re fashion icons and role models for young dreamers.
Are these Korean actresses only famous in Korea?
Not at all! The Top 10 Korean Actresses in 2025 are recognized globally. Their dramas are streamed in over 150 countries, making them international stars in every sense.
Who might become the next highest-paid Korean actress?
Actresses like Han So-hee, Kim Da-mi, and Kim Ji-won are emerging rapidly. Their recent performances and OTT popularity might soon place them among the Highest Paid Korean Actresses list.
