His interest in acting blossomed during his university years at Dankook University, where he majored in Business Administration. He actively participated in theater productions, honing his craft and discovering a passion for storytelling. This newfound passion steered him towards a career shift, leading him to drop out of Business Administration and enroll in the prestigious Korea National University of Arts.
Song Joong-Ki's official acting debut came in 2007 with a minor role in the Korean drama "Get Karl! Oh Soo-jung." Though small, it marked the beginning of his journey on screen. He landed supporting roles in various TV shows throughout the late 2000s, steadily building his experience and gaining recognition within the Korean entertainment industry.
His breakthrough came in 2010 with the historical drama "Sungkyunkwan Scandal." Playing the mischievous yet intelligent Gu Yong-ha, Song Joong-Ki captured the hearts of viewers with his comedic timing and charismatic portrayal. This role propelled him into the spotlight and established him as a rising star.
Coinciding with his success in "Sungkyunkwan Scandal" was Song Joong-Ki's participation in the immensely popular variety show "Running Man" from 2010 to 2011. The show's high-energy format, featuring celebrities in hilarious challenges and games, allowed Song Joong-Ki to showcase his versatility beyond acting.
He quickly became a fan favorite, earning the nickname "Little Brother" due to his youthful charm and quick wit. His participation in "Running Man" not only boosted his popularity but also endeared him to audiences for his athleticism, playful personality, and strong sense of camaraderie with the cast.
Following the success of "Sungkyunkwan Scandal," Song Joong-Ki embarked on a string of diverse roles that further cemented his reputation as a talented and versatile actor. He tackled the complex role of a young King Sejong in the historical drama "Deep Rooted Tree," showcasing his ability to portray depth and emotional nuance.
His performance in the 2012 melodrama "The Innocent Man" earned him the title of "The Savior of Melodrama" in South Korea. He convincingly portrayed a betrayed and vengeful character, captivating audiences with his emotional range. This success was further amplified by the box-office hit "A Werewolf Boy," a moving story about a feral boy who gradually learns about humanity.
Song Joong-Ki's willingness to experiment with genres was evident in his next project, the action thriller film "Gunhan Do." He underwent rigorous physical training to portray a special forces officer, showcasing his dedication to his craft. This film not only challenged him physically but also allowed him to explore the complexities of war and its impact on individuals.
The year 2016 marked a turning point in Song Joong-Ki's career with the global phenomenon "Descendants of the Sun." This romantic drama, set against a backdrop of war and disaster relief efforts, became a massive hit across Asia and beyond.
Playing the role of Captain Yoo Shi-jin, a charming and dedicated soldier, Song Joong-Ki's chemistry with his co-star Song Hye-kyo captivated audiences worldwide. The drama's success propelled him to international fame, with the "Descendants of the Sun" fever sweeping across continents.
He became a symbol of the Hallyu wave, the Korean wave of cultural popularity. Fans adored his portrayal of a strong yet compassionate soldier, further solidifying his position as a global heartthrob.
Following the immense success of "Descendants of the Sun," Song Joong-Ki carefully curated his projects to maintain his status as a top actor. He opted for a break from television dramas, focusing on film roles that challenged him artistically.
In 2017, Song Joong-Ki married his "Descendants of the Sun" co-star Song Hye-kyo, sending shockwaves through the Hallyu fandom. However, their fairytale marriage sadly ended in divorce in 2019. Despite the personal setback, Song Joong-Ki returned to the spotlight with renewed determination.
His 2021 drama comeback, "Vincenzo Cassano," showcased a compelling transformation. He played the titular role of Vincenzo Cassano, a ruthless Korean-Italian mafia lawyer seeking revenge. This role allowed him to shed his good-natured image and embrace a darker, complex character.
Song Joong-Ki delivered a powerful performance, masterfully portraying the character's duality – a ruthless lawyer with a surprising sense of justice and a hidden soft spot for those in need. "Vincenzo Cassano" was a critical and commercial success, solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor who could excel in various genres.
Currently, Song Joong-Ki is gearing up for the upcoming drama "Reborn Rich," a highly anticipated project based on a popular web novel. This drama delves into the themes of revenge, reincarnation, and corporate power struggles.
Based on the early teasers, Song Joong-Ki appears to be taking on a multi-layered role, playing a man who gets a second chance at life after being murdered by a wealthy family. This project further demonstrates his willingness to explore complex characters and push the boundaries of his acting skills.
Song Joong-Ki's journey from a young athlete to a global superstar is an inspiring story. His dedication to his craft, combined with his undeniable talent and charming personality, has earned him a loyal fanbase worldwide.
He has become a prominent figure in the Hallyu wave, promoting Korean culture and captivating international audiences. As he continues to explore new roles and take on challenging projects, Song Joong-Ki promises to remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of Korean entertainment for years to come.
