Introduction

On December 19, 2023, Gallup Korea revealed the results of its highly anticipated annual survey titled "Who was the best performing actor/actress of 2024?", part of their ongoing 'Top Figures of the Year' series that has captivated audiences nationwide.

This year, an impressive 1,741 South Koreans, aged 13 and older (excluding residents from Jeju Island), participated in the survey conducted between November 11 and November 25. Each participant was asked to name their top two favorite actors or actresses, and the competition was fierce!

And the Winner is... Ma Dong Suk!

Once again, the undeniable star Ma Dong Suk clinched the top spot, securing 26.5% of the votes for his riveting performance in the highly praised film 'The Roundup 4: Punishment.' This isn't his first triumph; he also took first place in 2023 for his role in 'The Roundup 3: No Way Out.' Fans can rejoice as the excitement continues with the fifth installment, 'The Roundup 5,' set to grace theaters in 2025!

Who Else Made the Cut?

In second place, the versatile Hwang Jung Min garnered 14.2% of the votes for his work in notable films such as '12.12: The Day', 'Mission: Cross', and 'I, the Executioner.' Hot on his heels, actress Kim Go Eun captured third place with 12.2% for her leading role in 'Exhuma.' Remarkably, 'Exhuma' became the highest-grossing Korean film of 2024, boasting an astounding 11.9 million viewers!

Here’s how the rest of the rankings shaped up:

- **4th Place:** Choi Min Shik with 11.7% for 'Exhuma' - **5th Place:** Lee Jung Jae, who garnered 10% for his role in 'The Acolyte' - **6th Place:** Lee Byung Hun with 8.3% - **7th Place:** Song Kang Ho at 7.3% for 'Uncle Samsik' - **8th Place:** Jung Woo Sung with 5.3% for '12.12: The Day' - **9th Place:** Yoo Hae Jin at 5% from 'Exhuma' - **10th Place:** Son Suk Goo with 3.4% for his performances in 'Night Fishing' and 'Troll Factory.'

The dynamic nature of K-drama and cinema continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and with rising stars and seasoned veterans alike, the future of Korean entertainment looks bright. You won't want to miss what these actors will do next! Stay tuned for more updates and surprises as we gear up for a thrilling 2025!