These richest korean actresses have not only enchanted audiences but have also amassed fortunes worth millions. From hit dramas to high-profile brand endorsements, they’ve transformed their star power into substantial wealth. At the pinnacle? A true queen with unparalleled influence, elegance, and longevity.
Jun Ji-hyun — $110 Million
From her breakout role in My Sassy Girl back in 2001 to global hits like My Love From the Star and Legend of the Blue Sea, Jun Ji-hyun remains a captivating figure who draws attention with each rare but significant comeback. Whether dominating the box office with films like The Thieves and Assassination or surprising fans in the action-horror series Kingdom: Ashin of the North, she has shown her versatility across genres. Smart real estate investments have solidified her position as Korea’s richest actress.
Lee Young-ae — $90 Million
With grace, poise, and timeless elegance, Lee Young-ae has made her mark. Her iconic role in Dae Jang Geum (2003) established her as a star across Asia, while her performance in Lady Vengeance revealed her ability to tackle darker characters. Although she takes on projects sparingly, each one is a testament to her commitment to quality, supported by lucrative endorsements and investments.
Song Hye-kyo — $60 Million
As one of the original queens of Hallyu, Song Hye-kyo has starred in a remarkable array of hits, including Autumn in My Heart, Full House, Descendants of the Sun, and the recent revenge drama The Glory. Renowned for her emotional depth and timeless beauty, she continues to secure top salaries in dramas and lucrative brand partnerships.
Kim Tae-hee — $55 Million
The epitome of classic beauty and elegance, Kim Tae-hee gained fame with Stairway to Heaven and Iris. While she is selective about her roles, her performances in Hi Bye, Mama! and Lies Hidden in My Garden showcase her growth as an actress. Her impeccable reputation and box office draw keep her firmly among Korea’s wealthiest stars.
IU (Lee Ji-eun) — $50 Million
Initially met with skepticism when she transitioned from music to acting, IU proved her critics wrong with her role in Dream High. This success paved the way for her acclaimed performances in My Mister, Hotel Del Luna, and When Life Gives You Tangerines. Her ability to convey deep emotions allows her to resonate with audiences on a profound level. A dominant force in the music industry, IU’s remarkable achievements in both music and acting have secured her a spot among this year’s top five.
Bae Suzy – $45 Million
Known as “the nation’s first love” during her time with Miss A, Bae Suzy has shown that her career is about more than just looks. Her breakout role in Architecture 101 was just the beginning, as she has since taken on a variety of roles, from the action-packed Vagabond to the psychological thriller Anna. With a keen instinct for selecting scripts that highlight her strengths, Suzy enters her thirties with a remarkable blend of fame and wealth.
Park Shin-hye – $40 Million
Beginning her career as a child actress in Stairway to Heaven, Park Shin-hye has grown alongside the Hallyu wave. With hits like You’re Beautiful, The Heirs, Pinocchio, and Doctors, she has become a household name throughout Asia. Her natural and relatable acting style, combined with her versatility across genres, has kept her in the limelight. Even after embracing marriage and motherhood, she made a swift return to the screen, showcasing her enduring appeal as an A-list star.
Shin Min-ah – $35 Million
While she is selective about her projects, Shin Min-ah consistently makes a strong impact with each role. From the beloved My Girlfriend is a Gumiho to the deeply moving Tomorrow With You and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, she has perfected the art of storytelling that is both gentle and profound. By balancing her personal life with a steady acting career, she successfully maintains her charm and financial security.
Kim So-hyun – $30 Million
A prominent figure of her generation, Kim So-hyun started her career in child roles, such as in The Moon Embracing the Sun, before moving on to lead roles in Who Are You: School 2015, Love Alarm, The Tale of Nokdu, and Good Boy. Her ability to portray a wide range of characters, from sweet and innocent to those with a bit more edge, showcases her talent. Now in her early twenties, she is anticipated to rise even further on this list in the coming years.
Han So-hee – $25 Million
In just a few years, Han So-hee has made a name for herself with her breakout role in The World of the Married, followed by performances in Nevertheless, My Name, and Gyeongseong Creature. She isn’t afraid to take on various genres, from romance to action and horror, bringing a fresh and charismatic energy to each character. While her choices sometimes lead to discussions, her bold image and script selections have firmly established her among the wealthiest Korean actresses.
