Kdrama Stars Who Rake Millions Through Brand Deals: Song Hye Kyo, Kim Soo Hyun, More
Hallyu is not just known for producing compelling content but is also home to some of the well-known global ambassadors.
From the OGs to rising stars, these Korean celebrities earn millions through brand endorsements, boating their net worth per advertisement deals.
To name a few, here are 5 Kdrama actors and actresses who make millions from endorsements.
Song Hye Kyo
Of course, the Hallyu queen is definitely on the list of most bankable brand ambassadors.
With Song Hye Kyo's net worth of 25 million USD, as cited by allstarnetworth.com, it also includes her slew of endorsement deals from clothing, food, and tech.
Since 2018, the "Descendants of the Sun" star has been the muse of Chaumet, one of the most recognized luxury jewelry brands in the world.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: THIS 'Hospital Playlist' Star Sends Song Hye Kyo Support for New Drama 'The Glory'
In addition to this, Song Hye Kyo is the face of the Korean skincare brand Sulwhasoo.
From beauty to luxury fashion houses, the Hallyu queen is Fendi's first Korean global ambassadress, welcoming her as part of the Maison in 2021 alongside Lee Min Ho.
Interestingly, reports noted that Song Hye Kyo earns a whopping $650,000 USD per Instagram post.
Kim Soo Hyun
Besides being the most sought-after leading man, Kim Soo Hyun is also known as one of the well-loved CF or commercial film kings by brands.
After his breakthrough performance in the 2014 Kdrama "My Love From the Star" alongside Hallyu queen Jun Ji Hyun, the actor continues to gain the interest of fans and companies.
According to an outlet, the actor reportedly gets paid 800 million to one billion won per advertisement; this is before his smash hit K-drama "It's Okay to Not be Okay" with Seo Ye Ji.
Jun Ji Hyun
Another Hallyu queen joining the list of Korean celebrities gaining millions per brand deal is none other than Jun Ji Hyun.
While Kim Soo Hyun reaps the popularity of the rom-com series "My Love from the Star," his female lead does the same.
Jun Ji Hyun's commercial deals at that time reached around, earning at least 20 billion won.
With a net worth of $6 million, as cited by celebritynetworth.com, Jun Ji Hyun's endorsements include the luxury fashion house Alexander McQueen, making her their first-ever Korean ambassador.
Park Seo Joon
Park Seo Joon
After the success of his K-drama "Fight for My Way," followed by "What's Wrong With Secretary Kim," all eyes are on Park Seo Joon.
Then-rising star successfully climbed the ladder of Hallyu's hierarchy and is now among the bankable male leads.
On top of it, he is also well-loved by brands due to his "healthy youth" image and charisma.
In 2018, it was reported that Park Seo Joon made it number one on the rankings of most preferred advertisement models, as noted by Korea Broadcast Advertising Corporation (Kobaco).
Currently, Park Seo Joon endorses Calvin Klein, Ricola, and Chanel.
Gong Yoo
Last but definitely not least is Gong Yoo.
Of course, the list wouldn't be complete without the beloved South Korean heartthrob.
After gaining fame for his OG Kdrama, the "Coffee Prince," the actor once again made millions of hearts swoon over him in the 2016 fantasy series "Goblin."
With years in the industry, Gong Yoo gained the trust not only of viewers but also big brands.
In 2021, he was hailed as Chanel Korea's brand ambassador, endorsing the brand's fine jewelry and watches.
Interestingly, the actor ranked first as the most favorite celebrity endorser by brands and advertisers in 2019.
According to an outlet, he gained 6.68 percent, followed by park Bo Gum and soccer star Son Heung Min.
