Introduction
Korean cinema and drama have taken the world by storm, with their action-packed fight sequences and dynamic choreography. But did you know that many Korean actors are professionally trained in martial arts? These actors don’t just rely on stunt doubles they bring authenticity to their roles by executing real combat moves. If you’re a fan of martial arts movies or K-dramas with intense action scenes, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into the world of Korean actors who have honed their martial arts skills.
1. Lee Byung-hun: The Veteran Action Star
Lee Byung-hun, known for his roles in I Saw the Devil and The Good, the Bad, the Weird, has extensive training in taekwondo. His ability to perform his own stunts has made him a favorite in the action genre, both in Korea and Hollywood (G.I. Joe, Terminator: Genisys).
2. Don Lee (Ma Dong-seok): The Powerhouse Fighter
Ma Dong-seok, better known as Don Lee, is famous for his brute strength and intimidating screen presence. Before becoming an actor, he was a personal trainer and had extensive training in boxing. His raw power and striking techniques shine in movies like Train to Busan and The Roundup series.
3. Jung Woo-sung: A Taekwondo Expert
Jung Woo-sung, the charismatic lead in The Divine Move and Steel Rain, is well-trained in taekwondo. His swift kicks and precise movements make his fight scenes incredibly realistic, proving that he’s more than just a handsome face.
4. Ji Chang-wook: A Versatile Action Star
Ji Chang-wook is widely recognized for his action-packed performances in dramas like Healer and The K2. He trained in various martial arts, including taekwondo and jiu-jitsu, allowing him to execute gravity-defying stunts with ease.
5. Jang Hyuk: A True Martial Arts Enthusiast
Jang Hyuk is one of the most dedicated martial arts practitioners in the Korean entertainment industry. He holds a black belt in taekwondo and has trained in Jeet Kune Do, the martial art founded by Bruce Lee. His performances in My Country: The New Age and The Swordsman showcase his impeccable combat skills.
6. Kim Ok-bin: A Female Action Icon
Kim Ok-bin gained fame through her lead role in The Villainess, where she performed intense action sequences that left audiences in awe. She is trained in taekwondo, hapkido, and Muay Thai, proving that women can be just as fierce in martial arts as their male counterparts.
7. Seo Ji-hye: The Graceful Fighter
Seo Ji-hye may be known for her dramatic roles, but she has impressive martial arts skills as well. She has practiced hapkido, a Korean martial art focusing on self-defense and joint locks, which she displayed in Crash Landing on You and Black Knight.
8. Rain (Jung Ji-hoon): From K-Pop to Kung Fu
Rain, a renowned singer and actor, trained in various martial arts while preparing for his Hollywood debut in Ninja Assassin. His training included kung fu, wushu, and taekwondo, making him one of the most well-rounded action stars in Korea.
9. Kim Bum: A Martial Arts Prodigy
Kim Bum, famous for his role in Boys Over Flowers, surprised many with his martial arts expertise in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938. He trained in taekwondo and capoeira, blending agility and acrobatics into his fight scenes.
10. Lee Joon-gi: The King of Sageuk Action
Lee Joon-gi is well-versed in taekwondo, hapkido, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. His martial arts proficiency is evident in historical dramas like Iljimae and Scarlet Heart: Ryeo, where he delivers flawless sword fights and hand-to-hand combat.
11. Yoo Ah-in: The Silent Warrior
Yoo Ah-in may be known for his deep, emotional acting, but his dedication to action is equally impressive. He trained in boxing and taekwondo for his role in The Veteran, where he delivered convincing fight sequences.
12. Han Hyo-joo: A Surprise Action Star
Han Hyo-joo impressed audiences with her role in The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure. To prepare for her action scenes, she trained in sword fighting and archery, proving her versatility as an actress.
13. Kim Ji-won: The Rising Action Star
Kim Ji-won has trained in taekwondo and judo, which helped her pull off action scenes in Arthdal Chronicles and Descendants of the Sun. With her growing popularity, fans hope to see more of her in action-packed roles.
14. Park Seo-joon: A Fighter in the Making
Park Seo-joon took up boxing and taekwondo for his role in The Divine Fury, where he played a fighter-turned-exorcist. His dedication to physical training has made him a strong candidate for future action films.
15. Jeon Do-yeon: A Veteran Actress with a Fighting Spirit
Jeon Do-yeon, known for her award-winning performances, took on an action role in Kill Boksoon. She trained in various combat styles, proving that age is no barrier to becoming an action star.
Conclusion
Korean actors are not just skilled performers they’re also highly trained martial artists who bring an unmatched level of authenticity to their fight scenes. Whether it’s taekwondo, boxing, or jiu-jitsu, these actors have spent years honing their skills to create some of the most thrilling action sequences in film and television. The next time you watch a Korean action drama or movie, keep an eye out for these talented martial artists you’ll appreciate their dedication even more!
FAQs
1. Which Korean actor is the best at martial arts?
Many Korean actors are highly skilled, but Jang Hyuk, Lee Joon-gi, and Don Lee are among the best due to their extensive training and experience.
2. Does Ji Chang-wook do his own stunts?
Yes, Ji Chang-wook performs most of his stunts himself, thanks to his training in taekwondo and jiu-jitsu.
3. Is taekwondo the most common martial art among Korean actors?
Yes, taekwondo is widely practiced in Korea, making it the most common martial art among actors.
4. Are there female Korean actors trained in martial arts?
Absolutely! Kim Ok-bin, Han Hyo-joo, and Kim Ji-won are just a few examples of female actors with impressive martial arts skills.
5. Do Korean actors train in martial arts just for roles?
Some do, but others, like Jang Hyuk and Lee Joon-gi, have trained in martial arts long before they started acting.
