Park Bo-gum

Park Bo-gum is a South Korean actor and singer who has become one of the most recognizable faces of the Korean Wave. Born in Seoul on June 16, 1993, he first made waves with his supporting role in the 2014 film A Hard Day and then captured hearts as the gentle genius Choi Taek in the 2015 drama Reply 1988. From there, he went on to lead hits like Love in the Moonlight (2016), Encounter (2018), and Record of Youth (2020), building a reputation for playing earnest, warm characters with remarkable depth.

Off screen, Park is known for his polished, prince-like image and his graceful piano playing, which he has showcased at fan meetings and on variety shows. He is the youngest actor ever to be named Gallup Korea's Television Actor of the Year twice, and he made history as the first actor to top the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity list. As of 2026, he remains a top Hallyu star, serving as an honorary ambassador for Korean tourism and starring in the musical Let Me Fly, which has gained renewed attention thanks to his involvement. With millions of followers on Instagram and a devoted international fanbase, Park continues to be a beloved figure in Korean entertainment. [edit]

Park Bo-gum was born and raised in Seoul, the youngest of three siblings. His family was not wealthy, and he has spoken about his parents' hard work and the importance of family in his life. He attended Seoul Mokdong Elementary School and later Shinmok Middle School, where he first developed an interest in singing and acting. He took part in school plays and musicals, and his natural talent was evident from a young age.

His path to stardom was not immediate. After high school, he enrolled at Myongji University, where he studied musical theater. To support himself, he took on part-time jobs, including working at a café. His big break came when he was cast in a supporting role in the 2011 film Blind, though his scenes were cut. Undeterred, he continued to audition and landed small roles in television, including a part in the 2012 drama Hero and the 2013 film Mr. Go.

His first notable appearance came in 2014 with the film A Hard Day, where he played a young detective. Critics took notice of his performance, and it opened doors for more substantial roles. He followed that with a supporting part in the 2014 drama The Cantabile Romance, but it was his role as the stoic yet tender Choi Taek in Reply 1988 in 2015 that changed everything. The drama became a cultural touchstone, and Park's portrayal of the quiet baduk prodigy earned him widespread acclaim and a devoted following. [edit]

Park Bo-gum's breakthrough in Reply 1988 (2015) was just the beginning. He followed it with the historical romance Love in the Moonlight (2016), where he played Crown Prince Lee Yeong. The drama was a massive hit, reaching peak ratings of over 23%, and Park won the Excellence Award at the KBS Drama Awards. He continued to choose diverse roles: the romantic melodrama Encounter (2018) opposite Song Hye-kyo, the coming-of-age story Record of Youth (2020), and the fantasy film Wonderland (2024). In 2025, he starred in the action drama Good Boy, which showcased a more intense side of his acting.

Beyond television, Park has expanded into musicals, starring in Let Me Fly, a production that has become famous largely due to his performance. He also hosts variety shows and has released singles and soundtracks, demonstrating his musical talents. In 2026, he was named an honorary ambassador for Korean tourism, and the Korea Tourism Organization released a promotional video featuring him as part of a campaign to attract visitors. His agency, THEBLACKLABEL, has managed his career since 2023, after a decade with Blossom Entertainment. [edit]

Park Bo-gum's public image is that of a gentlemanly, polished star, often described as having a "prince-like" aura. His fashion sense is refined, favoring tailored suits and classic styles, which has made him a favorite at brand events and on red carpets. He is also known for his gentle smile and warm eyes, which have earned him the nickname "the Prince of Asia."

His fandom, known as "Bo-gum's Angels," is known for its passionate support. They organize charity donations in his name and hold anniversary events. Park is active on social media, where he shares behind-the-scenes photos and interacts with fans in a friendly, down-to-earth manner. His Instagram account has over 14 million followers, and he uses it to promote his projects and endorse brands like Omega.

Media coverage often highlights his versatility and his ability to embody different characters convincingly. He has been praised for his dedication to his craft, often preparing extensively for each role. His reputation as a kind and hardworking actor has made him a respected figure in the industry and a role model for younger performers. [edit]

Global attention tracks Park Bo-gum through a vast matrix of media coverage, search activity, and consumption signals worldwide. He is currently the 39th most famous person from South Korea and stands as the 13th most famous person in K-Drama, with both positions holding steady from the previous cycle according to the iFANN Global Fame Rankings. While his fanbase operates without a rigid official codename like those found in idol groups, the community is widely recognized by the moniker "Gummy," a term derived from his social media handle and stage persona that unites supporters across Asia. This organized group distinguishes itself through substantial charitable initiatives, often matching his own contributions to fund public welfare projects during his birthday month. Their influence extends to large-scale digital campaigns for streaming visibility and coordinated physical advertisements in major global cities. The relationship between the actor and his followers is characterized by direct engagement, where he frequently responds to correspondence and shares personal content on his YouTube channel, BOGUMMY, fostering a sense of intimacy. Recent interactions highlight a shared commitment to self-improvement, with fans interpreting his disciplined lifestyle updates as a call to action for mutual growth.[edit]

Park Bo-gum is an accomplished pianist who has performed at fan meetings since his school days, showcasing a talent that complements his polished demeanor. Known for his impeccable manners, he earns the nickname "the prince of etiquette" for his habit of bowing deeply to seniors and crew members. A devout Christian, he credits his faith with guiding his career choices. He is an animal lover with a pet dog named Ruby and enjoys cooking Korean dishes, occasionally sharing recipes online. Despite his fame, he remains close to his family, noting that his mother is his biggest fan whom he calls after every major achievement. In 2026, he revealed a regimen of four meals a day to maintain his physique, observing changes even in his facial lines. Beyond these established facts, legends have emerged regarding his cultural impact. He holds the record as the youngest artist ever named Gallup Korea's Television Actor of the Year following his breakout role in Reply 1988. Fans also revere the 10th-anniversary reunion special of Love in the Moonlight with co-star Kim Yoo-jung, viewing their chemistry as a peak in romantic drama history. Additionally, a viral moment from mid-August 2026 saw him share images of an early-morning run, where his self-deprecating humor about morning puffiness resonated deeply with audiences seeking authenticity.[edit]

Park Bo-gum was born into a close-knit family in Seoul. He has an older brother and sister, and he often speaks about the warmth and support of his parents. His father worked in a factory, and his mother was a homemaker; despite financial struggles, they encouraged his artistic pursuits. Park has credited his parents' constant praise for his high self-esteem, saying in a 2026 interview that their belief in him shaped his confidence.

He remains single and has no children, focusing on his career and family. He lives in Seoul, and his family continues to be a central part of his life. He has mentioned that he enjoys spending time with his siblings and their families, and he often visits his parents on weekends. His pet dog, Ruby, is also a beloved member of the household. [edit]

Park Bo-gum has worked with several prominent actors and actresses throughout his career. He starred opposite Kim Yoo-jung in Love in the Moonlight (2016), and their on-screen chemistry was widely praised. He also shared the screen with Song Hye-kyo in Encounter (2018) and with Kim So-hyun and Lee Si-eon in Good Boy (2025). He has collaborated with director Kim Tae-yong on the film Wonderland (2024) and has been managed by THEBLACKLABEL since 2023. [edit]

Park Bo-gum has never publicly confirmed any romantic relationships, and he has kept his personal life remarkably private. There have been rumors and speculations, particularly after his on-screen pairings with co-stars like Kim Yoo-jung and Song Hye-kyo, but none have been substantiated.

In 2026, he remains single, with no known partner. He has stated in interviews that he is focused on his career and that he believes in waiting for the right person. His agency has also been protective of his privacy, recently taking legal action against malicious posters who spread false information about his personal life. As of 2026, there is no public information indicating that he is dating anyone. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates Park Bo-gum's net worth at $8 Million for 2026, a figure reflecting his sustained success in acting, endorsements, and music. His primary income derives from leading roles in television dramas and films, commanding high fees particularly following the acclaim of Reply 1988 and Love in the Moonlight. Reports indicate he earns approximately $100,000 per episode for single dramas and upwards of $1 million per film project. Endorsements serve as another significant revenue stream, with Park serving as the face of brands such as Omega and various Korean cosmetics and fashion labels, deals that typically generate millions annually. Additional earnings come from music releases, including singles and soundtracks, as well as ad revenue from his YouTube channel, which boasts over 332,000 subscribers. His financial standing has grown steadily, bolstered by recent projects like the musical Let Me Fly and his appointment as a tourism ambassador. While specific figures remain private, his consistent presence in high-profile ventures and his ranking on the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity list underscore his substantial economic achievements.[edit]

Park Bo-gum has won numerous awards throughout his career, primarily from Korean award ceremonies. He is the youngest actor to be named Gallup Korea's Television Actor of the Year twice, a remarkable achievement. He has also won multiple awards at the KBS Drama Awards, including the Excellence Award for Love in the Moonlight and the Top Excellence Award for Encounter. He has been recognized at the Baeksang Arts Awards, where he won the Most Popular Actor award. His international recognition includes being named the first actor to top the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity list. [edit]