Jinny’s Kitchen to Parasite, these are the best movies and dramas starring Choi Woo-shik

Directed by: Shin Yoon-sub, Ahn Gil-ho

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Park Yoo-chun, Han Ji-min, Lee Tae-sung, Jung Yu-mi, Lee Tae-ri, Jung Suk-won

In Rooftop Prince, Choi Woo-shik stars as Do Chi-san, a palace eunuch who travels through time alongside the noble Joseon Crown Prince Lee-gak, played by Park Yoo-chun. Together, they find themselves in modern-day South Korea, specifically in the year 2012, where they work to uncover the mystery behind the death of the prince’s wife.

Directed by: Kim Jin-min

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Choi Jin-hyuk, Baek Jin-hee, Choi Min-soo, Lee Tae-hwan, Son Chang-min, Jung Hye-sung, Kim Na-woon

Pride and Prejudice is a gripping legal drama that centres around the lives of rookie prosecutor Han Yeol-moo (Baek Jin-hee) and her team. Han Yeol-moo starts her new position under the guidance of the experienced Prosecutor Koo Dong-chi (Choi Jin-hyuk). As they work together to seek justice for those who have been wronged, they also face their own personal demons and unresolved issues from their pasts.

The show delves into the complexities of the legal system and highlights the struggles of the marginalised and disenfranchised, emphasising the importance of justice and integrity. Alongside their professional challenges, the team members, including Choi Woo-shik’s character, grapple with their evolving relationships and romantic entanglements. The dynamic between Han Yeol-moo and Koo Dong-chi becomes particularly intricate as they confront their growing feelings for each other amidst the intense pressures of their job.

Directed by: Pyo Min-Soo

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Uee, Im Seul-ong, Lee Soo-kyung, Choi Duk-moon, Jung Won-joong, Lee Si-un, Oh Young-sil, Park Ji-il

Hogu’s Love tells the story of Kang Ho-gu, portrayed by Choi Woo-shik, a man who has never been in a romantic relationship. He encounters his first love, Do Do-hee, played by Uee, who is a national swimming team member with many hidden secrets. This meeting leads Ho-gu into a complex relationship, dramatically altering his life.

Directed by: Yeon Sang-ho

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok, Kim Soo-ahn, Kim Eui-sung, Ahn So-hee, Jang Hyuk-jin

In 2016, South Korea showcased its prowess in the horror genre with the release of the critically acclaimed zombie movie Train To Busan. This spine-chilling film captivated audiences worldwide, earning a reputation for its intense and gripping storyline. The plot follows the story of train passengers traveling from Seoul to Busan. As the train speeds towards its destination, a terrifying zombie outbreak erupts, turning passengers into ravenous creatures.

Amidst the chaos, Yong-guk, a baseball player portrayed by Choi Woo-shik, who is traveling to Busan with his team, and his fellow team member, cheerleader Jin-hee played by Ahn So-hee, find themselves as the sole survivors from their group. The narrative intensifies as the train reaches Daejeon station, where the supposed safe haven is overrun by infected military personnel.

These once-protective soldiers have turned into relentless attackers, posing a significant threat to the remaining passengers. Yong-guk and the other passengers face a harrowing struggle for survival, battling the infected to protect himself and the other survivors.

Directed by: Jeon Chang-geun, Kim Jin-won

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Lee Yeon-hee, Jung Yong-hwa, Ha Shi-eun, Ryu Seung-soo, Park Yoo-na, Jeong Gyu-su, Lee Ji-hyun, Yoon Park

The Package is a drama that revolves around Yoon So-so, a travel guide portrayed by Lee Yeon-hee, who is tasked with leading a diverse group of tourists on a journey through the enchanting city of Paris. The series beautifully captures the essence of travel, portraying not just the scenic beauty of Paris, but also the transformative power of shared experiences.

As Yoon So-so guides the group through iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the city, the initially disparate tourists begin to form unexpected bonds. The journey through Paris serves as a backdrop for the characters to open up about their personal lives, struggles, and dreams, allowing them to connect on a deeper level.

Each character in the group has a unique backstory, adding rich layers to the narrative. From romantic entanglements to personal revelations, the series explores the complexities of human relationships. Choi Woo-shik’s character adds a distinct charm to the ensemble, contributing to the dynamic interactions that drive the story forward.

Directed by: Bong Joon-ho

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Ahn Seo-hyun, Lily Collins, Tilda Swinton, Byun Hee-bong, Steven Yeun, Jake Gyllenhaal, Yoon Je-moon, Paul Dano

The 2017 film Okja, directed by the acclaimed Bong Joon-ho, features an impressive ensemble that includes Tilda Swinton, Steven Yeun, Jake Gyllenhaal, Lily Collins, Giancarlo Esposito, and Choi Woo-shik. The narrative follows the touching story of Mija, a young girl portrayed by Ahn Seo-hyun, who has spent years caring for a gentle and gigantic creature named Okja in the serene mountains of South Korea.

Their peaceful existence is abruptly shattered when the powerful multinational conglomerate Mirando Corporation, led by the ambitious and ruthless Lucy Mirando played by Tilda Swinton, seizes Okja and transports the creature to New York City. The corporation’s goal is to exploit Okja for their own profit, a plan that is unbeknownst to the innocent Mija.

Faced with the sudden loss of her beloved companion, Mija makes a bold decision. Without any detailed strategy or support, she sets out on a perilous rescue mission to reclaim Okja. Her journey is fraught with challenges and dangers, as she navigates through unfamiliar urban landscapes and confronts the formidable forces of the Mirando Corporation. Along the way, she encounters various allies, including members of an animal rights group, who assist her in her quest.

Directed by: Huh Jong-ho

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Myung-min, Kim In-kwon, Hyeri, Lee Kyoung-young, Park Hee-soon, Park Sung-woong

Monstrum (2018) is a South Korean film set during the turbulent period of 1527, under the reign of King Jungjong. The kingdom is gripped by fear and uncertainty as rumors spread of a menacing creature known as Monstrum that is believed to be lurking in the shadows, posing a dire threat to the king’s life. Amidst the growing panic, the king’s loyal retainer, Hur, portrayed by Choi Woo-shik, steps up as a courageous defender.

Directed by: Park Hoon-jung

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Da-mi, Jo Min-soo, Go Min-si, Park Hee-soon, Jung Da-eun

One of Choi Woo-shik’s most notable roles is as a villain in The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion. Released in 2018, this science-fiction action-horror film captivated audiences with its intriguing storyline and talented cast. This movie marked the first collaboration between Choi Woo-shik and Kim Da-mi, although their characters are adversaries.

The plot follows Ja-yoon (Kim Da-mi), who escaped from a mysterious lab as a child and was adopted by locals. Now living a normal life, she participates in a competition to win prize money for her parents, showcasing her telekinetic abilities. This act draws the attention of two scientists who recognise her as the escaped girl from their lab.

Ja-yoon is soon approached by a man (Choi Woo-shik), who also possesses powers and is a ruthless killer. The film follows Ja-yoon as she embarks on a dark journey to uncover the truth about her past, her abilities, and the lab.

Directed by: Bong Joon-ho

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Song Kang-ho, Jang Hye-jin, Park So-dam, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, Jung Ji-so, Lee Jung-eun, Park Seo-jun

By now, almost everyone is familiar with the cinematic triumph that is Parasite. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this film has garnered widespread acclaim and numerous prestigious international awards. Among its many accolades are the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and an impressive haul at the 2020 Oscars, where it won Best Picture, Best Film Editing, Best Production Design, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film. These honours underscore the film’s exceptional quality and the profound impact it has had on audiences and critics alike.

In Parasite, Choi Woo-shik delivers a compelling performance as Ki-woo, the son of a destitute family living in a cramped semi-basement apartment. The story unfolds as Ki-woo seizes an unexpected opportunity to improve his family’s fortunes by posing as a highly qualified private tutor for the daughter of a wealthy household. Through a series of intricate and cleverly orchestrated deceptions, Ki-woo and his family gradually infiltrate the affluent Park family’s home, each assuming different roles within the household staff. This infiltration sets the stage for a gripping and darkly humorous exploration of social inequality, human ambition, and the lengths to which people will go to climb the socioeconomic ladder.

Directed by: Na Young-seok

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Youn Yuh-jung, Lee Seo-jin, Jung Yu-mi, Park Seo-jun

Youn’s Stay is a reality TV show where the renowned actress Youn Yuh-jung invites foreign nationals living in South Korea to experience Korean culture. Guests visit a traditional Korean guesthouse and enjoy meals prepared by celebrities. This show is a spin-off of Youn’s previous series, Youn’s Kitchen, where the cast ran a pop-up restaurant abroad. Due to the pandemic, Youn’s Stay focuses on local experiences, hosting guests who are in Korea for business or studies and haven’t been able to explore Korean culture because of COVID restrictions.

The celebrity hosts include actor and TV host Lee Seo-jin, actress Jung Yu-mi, popular drama actor Park Seo-jun, and Academy Award-winning actor Choi Woo-shik.

Directed by: Kim Yoon-jin

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Da-mi, Kim Sung-cheol, Roh Jeong-eui, Park Won-sang, Seo Jung-yeon, Park Jin-joo

Reunited as lovers in this K-drama, Our Beloved Summer is a coming-of-age romantic comedy that revolves around ex-lovers Choi Ung (Choi Woo-shik) and Kook Yeon-soo (Kim Da-mi). During their high school days, the two were deeply in love but eventually broke up, making a solemn vow never to cross paths again. Despite their best efforts to move on, fate intervenes in an unexpected way.

Years later, a documentary they had filmed together during their school days suddenly goes viral, capturing the attention of a wide audience and catapulting them back into the limelight. As a result, they are compelled to reunite to film a follow-up project. This unexpected reunion forces both Choi Ung and Kook Yeon-soo to confront their past, including the unresolved emotions and lingering issues that led to their initial breakup.

As they navigate the complexities of working together again, old wounds resurface, challenging their ability to maintain a professional relationship. However, this renewed interaction also provides an opportunity for personal growth and understanding. Through this journey, they must decide whether to let go of past grievances or find a way to rekindle the love they once shared. Will this second chance lead to healing and reconciliation, or will it deepen the rift between them?

Directed by: Parl Jun-soo

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Kim Tae-hyung (V), Park Seo-jun, Park Hyung-sik, Peakboy

This reality show follows the Wooga Squad—Park Seo-joon, Choi Woo-shik, Park Hyung-sik, Peakboy, and BTS’ V—as they embark on a relaxing getaway in Goseong. Essentially a long, cosy vlog, the show captures their camaraderie as they cook, eat, and unwind together.

Despite its simple premise, the show is a heartwarming watch that offers a soothing escape from the daily grind. The charming and famous cast, along with their delicious cooking, keeps viewers entertained and hungry for more.

Directed by: Lee Chang-hee

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Son Suk-ku, Lee Hee-jun, Kim Yo-han, Lee Joong-ok, Hyun Bong-sik, Oh Hye-won

In the Netflix series A Killer Paradox, Choi Woo-shik stars as Lee Tang, a college student who inadvertently becomes a murderer after killing a serial killer by accident. He soon realises he has the ability to identify criminals and starts a killing spree. Meanwhile, detective Jang Nan-gam, played by Son Suk-ku, employs his keen instincts to track him down.

Directed by: Na Young-seok

Cast: Choi Woo-shik, Lee Seo-jin, Jung Yu-mi, Park Seo-jun, Kim Tae-hyung (V), Go Min-si

Unlike typical reality shows filled with drama and competition, Jinny’s Kitchen offers a refreshing experience focused on collaboration. Premiered in 2023, the show features popular Korean celebrities preparing South Korean street food for international guests, blending flavour with entertainment. In Season 1, stars like Lee Seo-jin, Jung Yu-mi, Park Seo-jun, Choi Woo-shik, and BTS’ V ran a restaurant in the picturesque location of Bacalar, Mexico. Now back with a second branch, Season 2 shifts to Iceland, where the team, including a new intern Go Min-si, continues to serve Korean dishes like oxtail gomtang, bibimbap, and more, to a global audience. With a dynamic system that allows for role changes, Jinny’s Kitchen highlights the warm camaraderie among its cast while introducing viewers to Korean cuisine.