Choi Dae-hoon: A Deep Dive into the Versatile Actor’s Career
From Stage to Screen: The Rise of a Star
Choi Dae-hoon, born on November 16, 1980, has steadily carved out a remarkable career in the South Korean entertainment industry. His journey began not on the glittering sets of television dramas but on the intimate stages of theater.
After graduating from the prestigious Chung-Ang University with a degree in Theatre, Choi honed his craft in numerous plays and musicals. This foundation gave him a depth and range that would later become his signature as a screen actor.
Early Television Roles and Finding His Footing
Choi made his official television debut in 2007, but it was in the early 2010s that he began to gain more significant roles. He appeared in popular dramas like “Bridal Mask” and “Big,” slowly building his presence on screen.
These early years were crucial for his development, allowing him to transition his stage-honed skills to the different demands of television acting. He took on a variety of supporting characters, each role adding a new layer to his growing repertoire.
The Breakthrough: Six Flying Dragons and Critical Acclaim
A major turning point in Choi’s career came in 2015 with the historical drama “Six Flying Dragons.” His portrayal of the scholar-official Jo Mal-saeng was a standout performance that captured the attention of both critics and audiences.
This role showcased his ability to command the screen, blending intelligence with a commanding presence. It marked his arrival as a significant talent in the industry and opened the door to more prominent roles.
A String of Memorable Characters
The Complex Antagonist in ‘Crash Landing on You’
In the global hit “Crash Landing on You,” Choi played Yoon Se-jun, the opportunistic elder brother of the female lead. He brought a nuanced complexity to the character, making him more than just a simple villain.
His performance was a masterclass in portraying ambition and familial conflict, adding a compelling layer to the drama’s central storyline.
The Troubled Officer in ‘Beyond Evil’
In 2021, Choi delivered one of his most powerful performances in the psychological thriller “Beyond Evil.” He played Park Jeong-je, a police officer haunted by a traumatic past.
His portrayal was raw and deeply emotional, earning him widespread praise and a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards. This role solidified his reputation as an “acting monster” capable of immense depth.
Recent Success and Award-Winning Glory
Choi’s momentum has only continued to build. He has appeared in a string of successful dramas, including “Flower of Evil,” “Extraordinary Attorney Woo,” and “One Dollar Lawyer,” demonstrating his incredible versatility.
His hard work culminated in a major win in 2025 when he took home the Best Supporting Actor award at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards for his role in “When Life Gives You Tangerines.” This recognition was a testament to his consistent excellence and dedication to his craft.
The Man Behind the Roles
While known for his intense on-screen presence, Choi Dae-hoon is a dedicated family man. He has been married to fellow actress Jang Yoon-seo since 2015.
His career is a testament to the power of a strong foundation in theater and a relentless pursuit of challenging roles. He continues to be one of South Korea’s most respected and versatile actors, always leaving a lasting impression with every performance.
