4 Best Kim Jae-wook K-Dramas to Watch

Kim Jae-wook has built one of the most diverse careers in Korean television. Over the years, he has charmed audiences with everything from romantic leads and misunderstood artists to some of K-drama’s most terrifying villains. His ability to switch effortlessly between genres has earned him a loyal fan base both in South Korea and internationally.

Many viewers first discovered Kim Jae-wook through the classic drama Coffee Prince, while newer fans may know him from romantic hits like Her Private Life or the dark thriller Voice. Regardless of the genre, he brings charisma, emotional depth, and a unique screen presence to every role.

If you’re looking for the best Kim Jae-wook K-dramas to watch, these four series offer an excellent introduction to his talent. Each drama highlights a different side of the actor and demonstrates why he remains one of the most respected performers in the industry.

Her Private Life (2019)

Kim Jae-wook’s portrayal of Ryan Gold in Her Private Life remains one of the most celebrated romantic performances of his career (Image via tvN)

Her Private Life is arguably Kim Jae-wook’s most beloved romantic drama. The series follows Sung Deok-mi, an art curator who secretly runs a fansite dedicated to her favorite idol. Kim Jae-wook plays Ryan Gold, a talented art director who gradually falls in love with her.

What makes this drama stand out is Ryan Gold’s maturity and emotional intelligence. Unlike many stereotypical K-drama male leads, he is supportive, understanding, and respectful throughout the relationship. Fans and critics frequently cite the chemistry between Kim Jae-wook and Park Min-young as one of the show’s biggest strengths.

For viewers who enjoy romantic comedies with healthy relationships and strong character development, Her Private Life remains an easy recommendation. It also contains one of Kim Jae-wook’s most memorable performances.

Voice (2017)

Kim Jae-wook earned widespread acclaim for his chilling performance as Mo Tae-gu in the crime thriller Voice (Image via OCN)

If you want to see a completely different side of Kim Jae-wook, watch Voice. The crime thriller follows emergency call center workers as they track dangerous criminals using voice profiling and forensic investigation techniques.

Kim Jae-wook plays Mo Tae-gu, a wealthy businessman hiding a terrifying secret. His portrayal of the serial killer became one of the most talked-about performances in Korean television, earning praise for its intensity and psychological complexity. Many viewers still consider the character one of the scariest villains in K-drama history.

The role demonstrated Kim Jae-wook’s remarkable range. Anyone who watches Her Private Life and Voice back-to-back will immediately understand why he is so highly regarded as an actor.

Coffee Prince (2007)

Coffee Prince helped introduce Kim Jae-wook to a wider audience and remains a landmark K-drama classic (Image via MBC)

No list of Kim Jae-wook dramas would be complete without Coffee Prince. The series became one of the defining K-dramas of the 2000s and helped launch the careers of several cast members, including Kim Jae-wook.

Although he was not the main lead, Kim Jae-wook made a lasting impression as No Sun-ki, the quiet and mysterious waffle maker working at the Coffee Prince café. His calm demeanor and distinctive appearance quickly made him a fan favorite.

The show’s mix of romance, comedy, and emotional storytelling continues to attract new viewers nearly two decades after its release. For fans interested in seeing where Kim Jae-wook’s rise to fame began, Coffee Prince is essential viewing.

Crazy Love (2022)

Kim Jae-wook showcased his comedic and romantic strengths as Noh Go-jin in Crazy Love (Image via KBS2)

Crazy Love showcases Kim Jae-wook’s comedic talents. The romantic comedy follows Noh Go-jin, a successful academy CEO who pretends to have amnesia after an accident. Things become even more complicated when his secretary begins pretending to be his fiancée.

The drama blends romance, workplace comedy, and over-the-top situations to create an entertaining viewing experience. Kim Jae-wook fully embraces the eccentric nature of his character, delivering both humor and emotional depth when needed.

While Crazy Love may not be as famous as some of his earlier projects, it highlights his ability to lead a series and carry a romantic comedy with confidence. Fans looking for something lighter after watching Voice will likely enjoy this fun and energetic drama.