Choi Won Young

Biography

Choi Won-young (Korean: 최원영) is a South Korean actor known for his versatile performances across television dramas, films, and theater. With his ability to seamlessly transition between villainous, comedic, and dramatic roles, he has built a strong reputation in the entertainment industry. Over the years, Choi has starred in numerous hit dramas such as Sky Castle, Mystic Pop-up Bar, and Moon Embracing the Sun.

Early Life and Education

Choi Won-young was born on January 10, 1976, in South Korea. From a young age, he exhibited an interest in the arts, particularly in acting and performing. To pursue his passion, he attended Sungkyunkwan University, where he majored in Architecture. However, his love for acting eventually led him to shift his focus to the entertainment industry, marking the beginning of his journey as an actor.

Career Beginnings and Early Roles

Choi Won-young started his acting career in the early 2000s, initially taking on minor roles in films and television dramas. His film debut came in Unborn But Forgotten (2002), a horror mystery film where he played a supporting character. Though his role was small, it helped him gain experience in the industry.

In the following years, Choi continued to appear in several dramas and films, slowly building his reputation. His breakthrough came when he starred in the hit historical drama Moon Embracing the Sun (2012), where he played the role of Lord Yoon Dae-hyun, a key antagonist in the series. The drama was a massive success, and his performance as the villainous nobleman helped establish him as a reliable and compelling supporting actor.

Rise to Prominence

Following his success in Moon Embracing the Sun, Choi Won-young’s career gained momentum. He began receiving more prominent roles in popular dramas such as:

• A Hundred Year Legacy (2013) – Played a pivotal role as the second male lead.
• Empire of Gold (2013) – Showcased his acting range in a high-stakes political drama.
• Heirs (2013) – Appeared alongside a star-studded cast, further solidifying his presence in mainstream television.

His ability to portray authoritative and charismatic characters made him a sought-after actor for roles involving businessmen, politicians, and aristocrats.

Breakout and Major Success

One of Choi Won-young’s most notable performances came in the critically acclaimed drama Sky Castle (2018–2019). He played Professor Cha Min-hyuk, an ambitious and controlling father who pressures his children into academic excellence. The drama became one of the highest-rated series in Korean cable television history, and Choi’s performance was widely praised for its depth and intensity. His portrayal of an overbearing and manipulative father resonated with many viewers, making him a standout in the series.

Following Sky Castle, he continued to impress audiences with roles in:

• Doctor Prisoner (2019) – Played a powerful and corrupt hospital director.
• Mystic Pop-up Bar (2020) – Showcased a different side by playing a mysterious yet charming character in a fantasy drama.
• Undercover (2021) – Took on another impactful role in a political thriller.

Recent Works and Continued Success

Choi Won-young remains highly active in the entertainment industry, taking on diverse roles across different genres. Some of his more recent works include:

• Moonshine (2021–2022) – A historical drama set during the Joseon era.
• Gold Mask (2022) – A makjang (highly dramatic) series where he played a lead role.
• Numbers (2023) – A drama revolving around finance and corruption.

He continues to challenge himself with a variety of roles, proving his versatility as an actor.

Personal Life

Choi Won-young is married to fellow actress Shim Yi-young, whom he met on the set of A Hundred Year Legacy. The couple tied the knot in 2014 and has since built a happy family together with their two daughters. Their relationship is often admired by fans for its warmth and stability.