6 Reasons Why We Are Absolutely In Love With Famous Actor Ha SeokJin
From his handsome visuals to his amazing physique, his voice, his personality, his intellect, and his aura, here are some of the reasons why we are in love with famous actor Ha SeokJin.
Michael Albert, Kpopmap Editor 4 min to read ·
Published : Jun 20, 2022
Management Koo
With his amazing portrayal of his roles in various romance dramas, famous actor Ha SeokJin has consistently made hearts swoon and left an unquenchable desire in many to have a partner like him. The talented actor who first debuted as a model has left many not just charmed by his expressive acting abilities or his great looks, but also by his personality and his genius brain. A leading man in the romantic books of many, the actor's endless charms have made us fall in love with him.
The actor has a lot of attractive points and perhaps that is why he has a flock of fans who admire him so much. There are so many reasons to fall in love with him, his handsome visuals, amazing physique, his voice, his personality, his intellect, his aura, etc, the list goes on and on and with each passing moment, he seems to present a new layer of charms that adds to the list.
While there are many reasons why we adore the talented actor, here are a spotlighted few that would make you add him to your stan card.
1. His amazing filmography
His acting skills are versatile and very dynamic. He has his own unique style that makes him different from many actors we see today. Tackling roles in dramas like "When I Was Most Beautiful", "Something About 1 Percent", "Your House Helper", and "Radiant Office" to name a few, he fully immerses himself into his characters, understanding their stories with a goal of transmitting that same feeling to the viewer. With his dramas, he always grips our attention fully as he takes us on the journey of his characters. He executes each role with a level of finesse that is very exciting and intriguing too, as we often find ourselves looking forward to his next drama.
2. His outlook on life
In this video, the guest of the show "Problematic Men" were asked what it means to be happy and Ha SeokJin gave us perhaps one of the simplest but meaningful definitions of the term "Happiness". A feeling of mental and physical satisfaction, finding it in even the simplest moments, that is true happiness. Perhaps that has been one of his biggest influences as from what we have seen, he exudes a level of positivity that is very inspiring.
3. He is a variety show specialist
The actor has been on more variety shows than we can count. Beyond just his handsome face and his bright personality, he is very funny and witty, with the best punchlines.
4. He is an amazing YouTuber
Perhaps it's because of his many years working as an actor, perhaps it is his bright personality, perhaps it is his inept creativity, or perhaps it is all 3 and much more, but Ha SeokJin creates one of the best contents we have seen on YouTube. His contents are always smart, full of wits and funny moments, often informative, but ultimately very enjoyable to watch. From a day in his life to review concepts, and games, in his videos, there is never a dull moment.
5. An IQ of 152
Actor Ha SeokJin is a genius and he often displayed his smarts in many variety shows. Before he became an actor, he was first a student in the Mechanical Engineering department at Hanyang Univesity. Without prior knowledge of this, one might be able to just simply admire him for his intelligence as he has often displayed various traits of a smart man. From his poise and attitude, problem-solving skills, and ability to disseminate any information, it is clear the amount of thoughts and intelligence applied to most of his behaviors and that alone in itself is attractive.
6. His handsome visuals and amazing physique
COSMOPOLITAN October 2015 issue
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COSMOPOLITAN October 2015 issue
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While the actor has enthralled many with his amazing talents, his handsome visuals are one of the key points of his charms as with every appearance made or pictures shared, he leaves a host of fans who are excitedly praising him for his outstanding good looks and his incredible physique.
Are you a fan of the actor? Let us know some of the reasons why you admire him in the comments section below.
Top 19 MBC Dramas With The Highest Ratings Since 2020 (2024 Update)
Check out which MBC dramas have the highest ratings in the history of the channel from 2020 to 2024!
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 7 min to read ·
Published : Apr 22, 2024
· Updated : Apr 29, 2024
MBC
Throughout the world of K-Dramas, various broadcasting stations bring numerous series to the home of fans all across the globe. One of these stations is the illustrious MBC. MBC is one of the most popular broadcasting channels, with its K-Dramas consistently placing in the best ratings list. The channel continues to deliver high-quality productions appealing to fans in South Korea and abroad. As such, MBC drama ratings rise to the very top, with many reaching record highs.
Here are the top MBC Dramas with the highest ratings since 2020!
1. "Knight Flower" - 18.4%
Starring Lee Hanee and Lee JongWon, the historical drama "Knight Flower" starred high in ratings and quickly reached high ratings. The drama gained even more popularity in its last weeks and reached the ratings of 18.4% with its final episode. In 2024, the drama broke the previous records held by "The Red Sleeve". The drama is available on Viki, Kocowa, Apple TV, and Prime Video.
Among historical K-Dramas, "The Red Sleeve" was phenomenally made, filled with moments of romance and yearning that cannot be easily forgotten. Due to its massive success, it gained 17.4% ratings, making it the highest rated series among MBC K-Dramas from 2020 to 2023. Luckily for fans new and old, the K-Drama is available to watch on Rakuten Viki.
"Big Mouth" made big waves during its initial run. The chemistry between Lee JongSuk and Girls' Generation's YoonA was magnificent, and combined with a compelling storyline, it became an immediate hit, reaching 13.7% ratings. The drama can be watched via streaming site Hulu.
4. "My Dearest (part 1 & 2)" - 12.9%
MBC
Starring NamKoong Min and Ahn EunJin, "My Dearest" gained massive success and tugged on the heartstrings of all its viewers with a total of 21 episodes. Reaching its highest rating of 12.9% with the final episodes, it puts the series as one of the most watched of MBC. "My Dearest" is currently available on Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
5. "Wonderful World" - 11.4%
MBC
"Wonderful World" (2024) is a revenge and thriller drama starring Kim NamJoo and ASTRO's Cha EunWoo. The drama went viral on social media and the mysterious story caught attention. The drama peaked at 11.4% with its 9th, 11th, and 13th episodes. It started at 5.3%.
6. "Chief Detective 1958" - 10.8%
MBC
The retro crime drama "Chief Detective 1958" starring Lee JeHoon, Lee DongHwi, Choi WooSung, Yoon HyunSoo, and Seo EunSoo started with 10.1% and reached 10.8% with its 3rd episode. The drama started after "Wonderful World" and garnered a lot of attention to be able to start with such high ratings.
Also starring NamKoong Min, "The Veil" kept audiences at the edge of their seats with its various twists and turns. Its captivating suspense allowed the drama to reach its highest ratings of 9.8%, landing it at number four among MBC dramas. "The Veil" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki or Kocowa.
8. "The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" - 9.6%
MBC
"The Story of Park's Marriage Contract" based on webtoon gained a lot of popularity. Bae InHyuk and Lee SeYoung's chemistry was amazing and the story was full of mystery so the drama gained a lot of viewers. The drama started at 5.6% and reached the highest rating of 9.6%.
This MBC drama depicted the hard working performance of the National Tax Service. Featuring a cast with Yim SiWan, Go AhSung, Son HyunJoo, and much more, "Tracer" reached its highest rating at 9.0%, earning it the fifth spot among MBC dramas so far. "Tracer" is available on Rakuten Viki, Kocowa, and Wavve.
"The Golden Spoon" is a webtoon-based drama that followed poor, yet studious Lee SeungCheon (BTOB's SungJae) and chaebol son Hwang TaeYong (Lee JongWon) as they switched lives during adolescence and adulthood. The drama explored the stark differences between the extremely rich and those living in poverty. While there were moments of crushing heartache, there were scenes of uplifting hope that lit up all the dark spaces in your heart. "The Golden Spoon" earned its highest ratings at 7.8% and is available on Disney+ and Hulu.
While this webtoon-based drama had various moments of uplifting comedy, it also did an excellent job at exploring hard-hitting topics. This involved aspects of mental health, life after death and those left behind, as well as the will to live on. At its highest peak, "Tomorrow" earned 7.6% in ratings. This MBC K-Drama is available on streaming platform, Netflix.
Starring the iconic actor, So JiSub, "Doctor Lawyer" is a fusion of medical and law, providing the best of both worlds. As Han YiHan (So JiSub) searched for the truth, viewers could not help but remain by his side. With the help of its loyal viewers, the MBC drama reached its highest ratings of 7.2%, placing it at eighth on this list. "Doctor Lawyer" is currently available on Disney+ and Hulu.
Adapted from the winning script from MBC's 2018 drama writing contest, "Kkondae Intern" follows the reversal of roles between Ka YeolChan (Park HaeJin) and Lee ManSik (Kim EungSoo). The office comedy provided viewers a reason to smile and laugh, week after week, and reached its highest ratings of 7.1%. "Kkondae Intern" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
A story of strangers to lovers, Kim HaeKyung (Song SeungHeon) and Woo DoHee (Seo JiHye) unexpectedly meet on Jeju Island. Bonding over their respective heartaches and love of food, they remain in contact and gradually fall for one another. "Dinner Mate" earned its highest ratings at 6.1% and is available to watch via streaming sites iQIYI and Prime Video.
"Find Me In Your Memory" is a moving story between Lee JungHoon (Kim DongWook) and Yeo HaJin (Mun KaYoung). While the drama had its fair share of romance, it also offered moments of healing that aided broken souls everywhere. The drama earned its highest ratings at 5.4%, landing at eleventh among MBC K-Dramas. It is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
"The Forbidden Marriage" certainly had it all: a budding romance, a swoon-worthy second lead, a love triangle that broke your heart, and so much more. Audiences certainly agreed, sticking with the drama for every new episode, helping it reach its peak at 4.9% ratings. "The Forbidden Marriage" is available to watch on Prime Video, Rakuten Viki, and Kocowa.
17. "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" - 4.8%
MBC
"Kokdu: Season Of Deity" was filled with quirky characters, electrifying chemistry, and a romance that withstood the test of time. Switching between historical and modern, "Kokdu: Season Of Deity" had fans constantly coming back for more, earning 4.8% ratings. The MBC drama is made available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Wavve.
"When I Was Most Beautiful" is a heartbreaking love story featuring Oh YeJi (Im SooHyang) who is caught between brothers Seo Hwan (Ji Soo) and Seo Jin (Ha SeokJin). As they navigated feelings of love and jealousy, audiences remained glued to their seats, watching the story unfold. With the help of its dedicated viewers, the series earned 4.7% ratings, placing it at number fourteen among MBC K-Dramas. "When I Was Most Beautiful" is available to watch via Rakuten Viki and Kocowa.
19. "From Now On, Showtime!" - 4.6% & "The Game: Towards Zero" - 4.6%
MBC
Comedic with a touch of mystery, "From Now On, Showtime!" was able to captivate viewers with its lighthearted storyline and incredible lineup of actors. On the other hand, there was the more serious, thriller series "The Game: Towards Zero" which kept viewers shrouded in suspense. While two different genres, these series earned its highest ranking at 4.6%, tying at number fifteen among MBC K-Dramas.
Which of these MBC dramas is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
20 Best Korean Netflix Original Shows To Have On Your Watchlist (2023 Update)
Netflix is full of some incredible Korean original shows, some of which are definitely hidden gems! Check them out here!
Ishani Sarkar, Kpopmap Editor 8 min to read ·
Published : Nov 3, 2023
· Updated : Dec 15, 2023
Netflix
OTT platforms have brought the world a little closer with their roster of incredible entertainment from every part of the world, facilitating a whole new wave of globalization in the new digital age. In the absence of the restrictions of cable TV, a viewer in one part of the world can consume and appreciate art and entertainment from another. One of the biggest contributors to this has been the OTT giant Netflix and its Korean original shows.
In recent times, Netflix has upped its game in the arena of Korean entertainment with the huge and still rising popularity of the same. Besides bringing numerous classics on board, Netflix has also been churning out some incredible original content for fans worldwide.
If you’re a fan of K-Pop, K-Dramas, variety shows, and more, here are our picks for the best Korean shows, movies, and more that you can watch now on Netflix!
Let us know which of these you’ve already watched, which ones you’d like to watch next, and which ones you’d advise your K-entertainment-loving friends to watch!
Note: We are using the official summaries of the shows mentioned, as seen on Netflix.
Summary: A college student navigates life and school while dealing with a unique predicament — he's living with a beautiful former K-Pop idol.
For: Fans of idol-related stories and melodramas.
Why Watch?: If you've always wondered what it must be like to live the glamorous life of a K-Pop idol, take a dive into the dark side with "Doona!" and you'll leave with renewed empathy for your favorite K-Pop stars. As for the romance at the centre of the drama, it is truly warm and healing yet painful in a way that leaves a deep impression. The chemistry between Suzy and Yang SeJong is electric, making for some heart-fluterring scenes that will definitely give you butterflies.
Summary: Three friends working for a benevolent moneylender band together to take down a ruthless loan shark who preys on the financially desperate.
For: Fans of action and suspense.
Why Watch?: "Bloodhounds" is not just an action drama. It is a story of friendship, family, perseverance, and resilience. Woo DoHwan, Lee SangYi, and Kim SaeRon deliver stellar performances, and their dynamic is simply off the charts. The comedy peppered in throughout the series is refreshing, while the action scenes are cathartic, to say the least.
3. "The Devil's Plan" - Variety Show
When: 2023
Cast: Ha SeokJin, SEVENTEEN's SeungKwan, Lee SeeWon, Park KyeongRim, Suh DongJoo, Kwak JoonBin, Orbit, Guillaume Patry, Lee HyeSung, Cho YeonWoo, Suh YuMin, Kim DongJae
Summary: 12 contestants face off in games of wit, strategy, and wisdom over 6 nights and 7 days. Who will be crowned the ultimate victor?
For: Fans of brain/strategy games and reality shows.
Why Watch?: If you enjoy reality shows like "Big Brother", you will love "The Devil's Plan". Contestants live together for seven days, within which time they must compete against each other in intricately designed games to win the ultimate prize. From teamwork to betrayal, twists and turns, eliminations, penalties, and more, this show is filled with entertainment that you do not want to miss.
4. “Kingdom” Seasons 1 and 2; “Kingdom: Ashin of the North” - Drama & Special Episode
Summary: While strange rumors about their ill king grip a kingdom, the crown prince becomes their only hope against a mysterious plague overtaking the land.
For: Fans of horror, thrillers, and political dramas.
Why watch?: "Kingdom" is one of the best Korean Netflix original shows to date. This brilliant show takes modern fears and socio-political issues and plants them in Joseon, using the motif of the zombie to address important issues in society. There’s not a single dull moment in this entire show, over two seasons and one special episode and it’s definitely worth the sleepless nights.
Summary: New friends, new loves and new experiences mix together inside a colorful college dormitory in Korea that's home to students from around the world.
For: Fans of lighthearted slice of life dramas, campus romances, and sitcoms.
Why watch?: “So Not Worth It” is Netflix’s first Korean sitcom and features a star studded cast of actors, idols, foreign actors/variety show stars and more.
Summary: A model high school student who's steeped in a world of serious crime finds his double life upended when a classmate takes an interest in his secret.
For: Fans of psychological thrillers and realistic portrayals of society.
Why watch?: “Extracurricular” was a turning point for Korean dramas as it opened up a whole new arena for dark, gritty, and unconventional narratives based on some iota of truth in society.
Summary: In a world where an app alerts people if someone in the vicinity likes them, Kim JoJo experiences young love while coping with personal adversities.
For: Fans of bubbly campus romances who do not mind a bit of cheesiness.
Why watch?: “Love Alarm” is one of the most popular Korean Netflix original shows and for good reason too. Its novel concept, amazing cast, and story development will leave you hooked.
Summary: Finding life in all that’s left behind, a detail-oriented trauma cleaner and his estranged uncle deliver untold stories of the departed to loved ones.
For: Viewers who are looking for something different from the usual sweetness of Korean dramas and do not mind darker themes.
Why watch?: Despite being based on a rather grim theme, at the end of the day “Move To Heaven” is a heartwarming coming-of-age drama about family, friendship, and love. If you're looking for memorable Korean Netflix original shows, this one will be right up your alley.
Summary: Wielding a light-up sword through the dark corners of a high school, a nurse with an unusual gift protects students from monsters only she can see.
For: Fans of supernatural and fantasy dramas.
Why watch?: This drama is full of adventure, action, mystery and thrill. Its bite sized format allows for it to be the perfect weekend binge.
Summary: As humans turn into savage monsters and wreak terror, one troubled teen and his apartment neighbors fight to survive — and to hold on to their humanity.
For: Fans of horror and webtoon-based dramas.
Why watch?: This drama is based on an incredibly popular webtoon and does complete justice to the same. Each actor’s performance is strikingly brilliant, which contributes to the hard-hitting impact of the drama.
Summary: An exploration of different personas in an eclectic collection of four works by critically acclaimed Korean directors.
For: Fans of slow-burn stories that culminate to a more than satisfying conclusion.
Why watch?: Fans of intellectual storylines will definitely appreciate this work for its subtle nuances and gripping narratives. The cast is just the cherry on top!
Summary: Hiding out in Jeju Island following a brutal tragedy, a wronged mobster with a target on his back connects with a woman who has her own demons.
For: Fans of action thrillers.
Why watch?: This film will have you at the edge of your seat from start to finish as you find yourselves rooting for the unlikeliest characters.
Summary: With prayer beads in one hand and an ax in the other, a monk hunts down a millennia-old spirit that's possessing humans and unleashing hell on Earth.
For: Fans who love all things gore, horror, and some jumpscares.
Why watch?: We cannot talk about the best Korean Netflix original shows without this horror masterpiece. This film will satisfy all horror fanatics with its chilling storyline, incredibly well-made scenes, and especially amazing CGI work. Remember to cancel out the scare with a comedy later because this film will haunt you in your nightmares.
14. “Time To Hunt” - Film
When: 2020
Cast: Lee JeHoon, Ahn JaeHong, Choi WooShik
Summary: Wanting to leave their dystopian world behind for a faraway paradise, three outlaws plot a money heist — and draw the attention of a vicious killer.
For: Fans of thrillers and action films.
Why watch?: Remember to breathe while watching this film because danger lurks at every corner. “Time To Hunt” is the very definition of a film that will have you nervously rocking back and forth until the end.
Summary: Connected by phone in the same home but 20 years apart, a serial killer puts another woman’s past — and life — on the line to change her own fate.
For: Fans of thrillers and murder mysteries.
Why watch?: This film is a rollercoaster of twists and turns that will leave you trying to patch hints together until the bigger picture is revealed.
Summary: Chasing after space debris and faraway dreams in year 2092, four misfits unearth explosive secrets during the attempted trade of a wide-eyed humanoid.
For: Fans of space adventure stories with a tinge of deep emotions.
Why watch?: This film will give you laughter, tears, excitement, and warm your heart with the sweetest tale of a chosen family, up in space.
Summary: Faced with real-world opportunities and challenges, a couple endures the highs and lows of trying to make a long-distance relationship survive.
For: This film is for everyone!
Why watch?: This film is a mind-blowing piece of solid writing, amazing acting, and perhaps the most intriguing plot twist ever that is sure to leave you thinking about it for the rest of the day.
18. “BLACKPINK: Light Up The Sky” - Documentary Film
Summary: Record-shattering Korean girl band BLACKPINK tell their story — and detail the hard-fought journey of the dreams and trials behind their meteoric rise.
For: This is for BLINKs (of course) and K-Pop fans in general as well as those who are interested in the inner workings of the K-Pop industry.
Why watch?: This docu-film is an enlightening glimpse into the world behind the glitz and glamour that comes from being the world’s biggest K-Pop group. Even if you’re not a BLINK, you need to watch this.
Summary: Tackling different mysteries in each episode of this game show, seven sleuths get closer to solving the biggest one of all: What happened to Project D?
For: Variety show fans, K-Drama fans and K-Pop fans alike!
Why watch?: This variety show features your favourite K-Drama stars, variety show experts and K-Pop idols all in one fun investigative show that will brighten up your day with laughter and entertainment.
20. “Twogether” - Variety Show
When: 2020
Cast: Lee SeungGi, Jasper Liu
Summary: Paired together for an unforgettable trip across Asia, stars Lee Seung-gi and Jasper Liu become buddies as they connect with fans and local cultures.
For: This show is for everyone who’s trying to cope with the quarantine blues.
Why watch?: Go on a virtual vacation with your favourite K-Drama and C-Drama stars Lee SeungGi and Jasper Liu from the comfort of your own home. Not only is this a travel reality show but it is also full of love and laughter that will rejuvenate you and leave you feeling all sorts of happy feelings. “Twogether” is a must-watch.
Which of these Netflix original shows is your favourite?
※You can vote multiple times without sign in.
Doona!
Bloodhounds
The Devil's Plan
Kingdom
So Not Worth It
Extracurricular
Love Alarm
Move To Heaven
The School Nurse Files
Sweet Home
Persona
Night In Paradise
The 8th Night
Time to Hunt
The Call
Space Sweepers
Sweet and Sour
BLACKPINK: Light Up The Sky
Busted!
Twogether
Please do not refresh any more. Press the "VOTE" button below.
Note: This poll was first opened in August 2021. "Doona!", "Bloodhounds" and "The Devil's Plan" have been added to the poll in November 2023.
10 Most Popular Netflix Programs Currently In Korea (Based On October 9, 2023 Data)
Check out the most popular programs on Netflix in Korea at the moment (data of October 9).
Dyllan Mykel, Kpopmap Editor 2 min to read ·
Published : Oct 9, 2023
Netflix
K-Variety program, "The Devil's Plan", made its premiere on the streaming platform on September 26th and has quickly flooded social media feeds everywhere. Using their minds, the cast are put in a game of wits, strategy, and intelligence. Viewers cannot help but become mesmerized by the thrilling situations that arise throughout the course of the show.
Wondering about the other shows that made it into Netflix Korea's top 10 shows? Check them out here!
As different content is offered by the platform per country, some shows available in South Korea may not be available in your country. Do note that the release date of a certain show on Netflix may also differ per each country.
Netflix Korea has a top 10 ranking of daily popular content on its platform. These are the most popular Netflix programs of the day in Korea based on October 9 data (retrieved on October 9, 11:00AM KST, data for October 8).
"The Devil's Plan" has climbed up to the top spot of Netflix Korea's daily top shows, showcasing the variety program's widely popular appeal. Korean dramas that show popularity on the streaming platform are "Song Of The Bandits", "Destined With You", "A Time Called You", and "Behind Your Touch".
"Destined With You" is the currently ongoing Korean drama on the list.
You can check out the previous top 10 for October 3 here.
Are you watching any of the shows on the top 10? Let us know which show you are watching through the comments!
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