| Full Name | Gong Ji-cheol |
| Age | 43 |
| Birthday | July 10, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Busan, South Korea |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram |
Early Life and Education
Born in Busan, Gong Yoo discovered his passion for acting at a young age when he landed the lead role in a school play. After high school, he majored in theater at the prestigious Seoul Institute of the Arts. During college, he was active in the theater department and appeared in student productions. This set the stage for his future professional successes.
Acting Career Highlights
Television Debut
Gong Yoo‘s memorable debut was in the 2001 campus drama "School 4." But his breakout lead role came in 2007‘s "Coffee Prince," which became a pan-Asian sensation. As the arrogant heir to a conglomerate, Gong displayed impeccable comic timing. The character, as well as his nuanced, emotionally moving performance, earned him many new fans.
Film Stardom
After completing his military service, Gong Yoo embarked on a thriving film career. In the chilling "Silenced" (2011), he brought empathetic depth to an abused teacher fighting injustice. Action-thriller "The Suspect" (2013) cemented his status as a versatile leading man. But it was the 2016 zombie blockbuster "Train to Busan" that propelled him to global stardom. He carried the emotional weight of the film admirably as a devoted father.
Acclaimed Return to Television
After nearly a decade away, Gong Yoo made his awaited television comeback in tvN‘s fantasy romance "Goblin" (2016). As an immortal goblin, he touchingly conveyed centuries of loneliness and delivered devastating heartbreak. The role exhibited his range and sensitivity as an actor at the height of his powers.
Personal Life
While fiercely private about his personal life, Gong Yoo comes across in interviews as humble, thoughtful and dryly funny. He values time spent with family. During his mandatory military service from 2003-2005, he kept in touch with his mother through heartfelt letters.
Known for professionalism and dedication to his craft, Gong Yoo thoroughly researches each role to fully inhabit characters. He also continually strives to improve as an actor. For fans, he is remarkably generous – sending personalized gifts and taking time to interact at events.
At 43, Gong Yoo remains at the top of his game with his skills continuing to grow. There is no limit to what this consummate actor can accomplish. His passion and talent guarantee many more thrilling roles to come that will resonate with audiences everywhere.
