Ma Dong Seok has officially claimed the title of ‘Actor of the Year’ for 2024, as revealed by Gallup Korea’s annual survey. The actor’s unstoppable momentum and commanding screen presence have made him a standout figure in South Korean cinema, earning him the top spot for the second consecutive year with 26.5% of the votes.

The Dominance of ‘The Roundup’ Series

Ma’s reign at the top owes much to his signature role in ‘The Roundup’ series. This gripping crime-action franchise, based on true events, has captured the hearts of millions. Ma not only stars as the indomitable Detective Ma Seok Do but also serves as the producer and planner of the ambitious eight-film saga.

Since its debut in 2017, the series has consistently delivered record-breaking hits. ‘The Roundup 2’ (2022) and ‘The Roundup 3’ (2023) were the only films of their respective years to surpass the coveted 10-million-viewer milestone, and ‘The Roundup 4’ (2024) followed suit, standing tall as one of the year’s biggest blockbusters. With the fifth installment slated for 2026, Ma’s character continues to resonate as a symbol of justice and unyielding determination.

Rising and Established Stars Share the Spotlight

The survey, conducted from November 11–25 among 1,741 respondents across South Korea (excluding Jeju), also showcased a mix of veteran icons and rising stars. Joining Ma Dong Seok in the top three were Hwang Jung Min and Kim Go Eun, each carving out their own legacy.

• Hwang Jung Min (14.2%): Known for his versatility, Hwang delivered standout performances across genres, from the military drama ‘12.12: The Day’ to the action-packed comedy ‘Mission: Cross’, and his reprised role in the gripping sequel ‘I, the Executioner.’ Hwang’s consistent top 10 presence over the past decade reaffirms his place as one of Korea’s most beloved actors.

• Kim Go Eun (12.2%): Making her first-ever appearance in the top 10, Kim Go Eun delivered a career-defining performance as a shaman in the occult mystery ‘Exhuma’, the highest-grossing film of 2024 with 11.91 million viewers. As the sole woman in this year’s rankings, her breakout success highlights her growing influence in Korean cinema.

A Richly Talented Top 10

The list reflects Korea’s cinematic diversity, with actors from different genres and platforms making waves:

1. Choi Min Shik (11.7%): The veteran actor impressed as a master geomancer in ‘The Burial.’
2. Lee Jung Jae (10.0%): Garnered international acclaim as the first Asian Jedi in Disney+’s ‘The Acolyte.’
3. Lee Byung Hun (8.3%): Celebrated for his gripping role in ‘Concrete Utopia’ (2023).
4. Song Kang Ho (7.3%): Starred in his first-ever drama, ‘Uncle Samsik,’ after 35 years in film.
5. Jung Woo Sung (5.3%): Delivered a heartfelt performance in ‘Seoul’s Spring.’
6. Yoo Hae Jin (5.0%): Captured hearts in ‘The Burial’ and the heartwarming drama ‘Dog Days.’
7. Son Suk Ku (3.4%): Praised for his unique roles in ‘Comment Army’ and ‘Night Fishing.’

Actors with notable mentions included Jo Jung Suk (3.1%), Kim Hye Soo (2.9%), Jung Hae In (2.8%), and Seol Kyung Gu (1.7%). Rising stars like Kim Soo Hyun, Cha Eun Woo, and Lee Do Hyun also made the list, showcasing the next generation of Korean talent.

Korea’s Cinematic Brilliance Shines Bright

From blockbuster franchises like ‘The Roundup’ to genre-defining performances in dramas and films, this year’s Gallup Korea rankings underline the dynamic growth of Korean entertainment. With Ma Dong Seok at the helm, 2024 was a year of thrilling stories, memorable performances, and groundbreaking achievements on the domestic and international stage. Fans can look forward to even more cinematic magic in the coming year.