6 Real Life 'Chaebol' K-Drama Stars: Kim Tae Hee, Lee Honey, Park Hyung Sik, More

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Super Junior Siwon
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Siwon
Choi Siwon
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Block B P..O
P.O
Pyo Ji Hoon
Jung Hae In
Kim Tae Hee

Some of the most popular South Korean stars were born with affluent backgrounds. Some would even say they are real life "chaebol."

Curious about who these stars are? Keep on reading to know more about these real-life crazy rich Asians!

1. Super Junior Siwon

Super Junior member and "Work Later, Drink Now" actor Choi Siwon is one of the most well-known chaebols (conglomerate families who own large South Korean businesses).

Choi Siwon for Marie Claire Korea November Issue
(Photo : Marie Claire Korea)

The singer-actor's father is reportedly the former CEO of Boryung Medicine, a pharmaceutical company in South Korea, while his mother owns fashion brands.

Siwon's family also owns Hyundai Department Store and various other businesses. While he was born on the lap of luxury, he still makes a legacy for himself as he makes millions on his own as an artist.

Choi Siwon for Marie Claire Korea November Issue
(Photo : Marie Claire Korea)

He appeared in many iconic K-Dramas such as "She Was Pretty" and "Revolutionary Love" while simultaneously promoting as a member of Super Junior.

But luxury is not the only thing Siwon was born with, he also possesses a big heart, and he has been committed to helping other people. 

Choi Siwon for Marie Claire Korea November Issue
(Photo : Marie Claire Korea)

Did you know that he's a special representative for Unicef Korea? He's also a Unicef East Asia and Pacific's Regional Ambassador!

2. Lee Honey

The beauty queen-turned-actress Lee Honey is one of the actors who was born with a silver spoon in her mouth.

Honey Lee
(Photo : Honey Lee Instagram)

Her father, Lee Sang Eob, served as a high-ranking official at the National Intelligence Service, South Korea's chief intelligence agency. Moon Jae Suk, her mother, works as a music history professor at Ehwa Woman's University. She also serves as the music director of Gimhae City Gayageum Orchestra.

Not only that, Lee Honey's uncle, politician Moon Hee Sang, is the Speaker of the National Assembly.

Honey Lee
(Photo : Honey Lee's Instagram)

While Lee Honey cemented her name with her performances in "Extreme Job," "The Fiery Priest," and "One the Woman," she didn't forget to enrich her mind. 

READ MORE: 5 Korean Actors Who Once Trained To Become Athletes: Song Joong Ki, Song Hye Kyo, Ahn Bo Hyun, More

She graduated with high honors in Korean music, and received her master's degree at the prestigious Seoul National University.


3. Park Hyung Sik

Park Hyung Sik made millions as an actor while promoting with his group ZE:A at the same time.

Park Hyung Sik in 'Soundtrack #1'
(Photo : Disney Plus Korea Instagram)
Park Hyung Sik

He and his group produced hit songs such as "Love Is Gone," "Body To Body," and more. Park Hyung Sik also appeared in many popular dramas like "The Heirs," "High Society," "Hwarang," "Strong Woman Do Bong Soon," and "Happiness."

Park Hyung Sik in 'Soundtrack #1'
(Photo : Disney Plus Korea Instagram)
Park Hyung Sik

But did you know that the singer-actor is also born rich? His father is a member of the board of directors at BMW Korea while his mother works as a piano teacher. Ever wondered what car Park Hyung Sik drives?

4. Block B P.O

P.O first appeared as the youngest member of the multi-talented group Block B. He then later on ventured into acting.

Block B’s P.O
(Photo : P.O's Instagram)

P.O starred in the worldwide drama "Hotel del Luna" with IU and Yeo Jin Goo, which became his most notable work.

When he was asked about the truth behind the rumors of him being a chaebol's son, the singer-actor quickly denied it and explained that he only grew up comfortably.

Block B P.O
(Photo : P.O's Instagram)

The "Hotel del Luna" star humbly revealed that his father owns a Duty-Free store. Now, how do rich people describe their lives? Does "comfortable" ring a bell?

5. Jung Hae In

While he portrayed a North Korean spy in the controversial drama "Snowdrop" with BLACKPINK Jisoo. In real life, he's the great grandson of Jung Yak Yong!

Jung Hae In for GQ Magazine
(Photo : Jung Hae In Official Instagram)

The actor's great grandfather is a prominent figure, a great thinker of the Joseon era. He was highly respected because of his written works related to philosophy, science, and government.

Because of these contributions, it's not shocking that the Jung clan lived a prosperous life! In particular, Jung Hae In's parents own a hospital in South Korea.

Jung Hae In for GQ Magazine
(Photo : Jung Hae In Official Instagram)

Without a doubt, the Jungs are indeed rich, not only in wealth but also in talents!

6. Kim Tae Hee

South Korea's darling beauty Kim Tae Hee is gorgeous, timeless, talented, and intelligent. While she made millions as an actress, she didn't forget to prioritize her studies, and graduated at the top of her class.

Kim Tae Hee
(Photo : Super Stars Bio)

Kim Tae Hee lives a happy life with his equally talented husband Rain. But did you know that she lived the most comfortable life growing up?

The "Hi Bye, Mama!" star's father is the chairman of Hankook Union Transportation Company, which has an annual turnover that exceeds 15 billion KRW (approximately 13 million USD).

Kim Tae Hee and Rain
(Photo : Channel Korea)

However rich these actors are, they are still the most talented and most humble public figures in the entertainment industry even today!

ALSO READ: Here Are 5 Korean Celebrities You Probably Didn't Know Were Related: Kim Tae Hee, Lee Wan, Gong Myung, NCT Doyoung, More

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.

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