Ji Chang Wook has become one of the most recognized South Korean actors, capturing fans’ hearts with his roles in a variety of romantic and action-packed dramas. Known for his strong on-screen presence, Ji Chang Wook has showcased his immense versatility through a series of hit dramas that enjoy high ratings and international acclaim. For fans looking to explore his best work, here is a curated list of his nine most popular K-dramas that should not be missed.
1. If You Wish Upon Me
This drama marks one of the latest highlights in Ji Chang Wook’s career. He takes on the role of a former gangster who volunteers at a hospital. His character’s difficult past adds emotional depth to the story. In this hospital setting, he joins a volunteer team that fulfills the final wishes of terminally ill patients, offering viewers touching stories and powerful performances.
2. The Sound of Magic
In this Netflix original series, Ji Chang Wook plays a mysterious magician living in an abandoned amusement park. The drama’s central theme revolves around hope, belief, and childhood wonder. With a total of six episodes, the series stands out for its unique blend of fantasy and musical elements. His acting, coupled with impressive musical numbers, drew praise from critics and audiences.
3. Lovestruck in the City
This romantic drama also featured on Netflix pairs Ji Chang Wook with actress Kim Ji Won. He stars as an architect who finds himself falling in love during a vacation, only to lose contact with his love interest. The drama’s documentary-style narration and urban setting brought a fresh feel to K-drama storytelling, resulting in strong popularity during its release.
4. Backstreet Rookie
Mixing romance and comedy, ‘Backstreet Rookie’ tells the story of a convenience store manager, played by Ji Chang Wook, who faces difficulties running his store. The dynamic changes when he hires a part-time worker with a notorious reputation from her past. The chemistry between Ji Chang Wook and Kim Yoo Jung created plenty of online discussions, making the series a trending topic during its airtime.
5. The K2
This drama cements Ji Chang Wook’s status as an action star. He takes the role of a highly skilled bodyguard hired to protect the daughter of a wealthy family. The series features intricate fight scenes and a tense political backdrop. Viewers were especially drawn to his action sequences and the complex relationships between the characters.
6. Healer
Recognized as a turning point in his career, ‘Healer’ stars Ji Chang Wook alongside Park Min Young and Yoo Ji Tae. The story revolves around a group of reporters who work together to uncover a dark secret from the past. The series combines thriller, romance, and action, with Ji Chang Wook’s character working as a mysterious "night courier" for hire. With its fast-paced plot and multiple twists, ‘Healer’ remains a fan favorite.
7. Suspicious Partner
In this legal drama, Ji Chang Wook demonstrates his range by portraying a successful prosecutor. He teams up with a new intern, played by Nam Ji Hyun, who soon finds herself accused of murder. The drama balances romance and crime investigation, and highlights the development of trust between the two main characters as they solve various legal cases together.
8. Welcome to Samdalri
Unlike his action-focused roles, this drama shifts attention to themes of family and community. The story follows three sisters from Jeju Island who, after facing a scandal, must leave their city lives in Seoul behind and return to their hometown. As they reconnect with family and old friends, new chapters and emotional healing begin. Ji Chang Wook’s performance gives the series a grounded, heartfelt appeal.
9. The Worst of Evil
Fans seeking a more intense viewing experience should look no further than ‘The Worst of Evil.’ This action-packed drama teams up Ji Chang Wook with Wi Ha Joon. The plot centers on undercover police operations targeting a transnational drug syndicate. The suspenseful story takes viewers to different countries, including Korea, China, and Japan. Ji Chang Wook’s dedication to performing many of his own stunts added realism to his portrayal of a determined detective.
Comparison of Ji Chang Wook’s Dramas
| Drama Title | Genre | Platform | Notable Co-Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| If You Wish Upon Me | Melodrama/Healing | KBS2 | Sooyoung |
| The Sound of Magic | Musical/Fantasy | Netflix | Choi Sung Eun |
| Lovestruck in the City | Romance/Drama | Netflix | Kim Ji Won |
| Backstreet Rookie | Romantic Comedy | Netflix | Kim Yoo Jung |
| The K2 | Action/Political | tvN | Im Yoona |
| Healer | Thriller/Action/Romance | KBS2 | Park Min Young |
| Suspicious Partner | Legal Drama/Romance | SBS | Nam Ji Hyun |
| Welcome to Samdalri | Drama/Family | Netflix | Shin Hye Sun |
| The Worst of Evil | Action/Crime | Disney+ | Wi Ha Joon |
Ji Chang Wook’s impressive filmography covers a wide spectrum of genres, from legal and family dramas to high-stakes thrillers. His choices allow him to showcase distinct aspects of his acting range and keep fans engaged with every new release. Reliable sources note his commitment to training for challenging action scenes and his natural chemistry with co-stars as key reasons for his growing international fan base.
Watching these nine dramas offers fans a chance to see Ji Chang Wook’s enduring appeal and versatility as an actor. Whether you’re drawn to touching melodramas, gripping thrillers, or lighthearted romantic comedies, each series brings something special to the table. This list provides a well-rounded starting point for anyone interested in the best works of Ji Chang Wook. Fans interested in keeping up with his new projects can also follow official streaming platforms or his agency’s announcements for the latest updates.
