The Korean entertainment industry is known worldwide for its captivating stories and talented actors. One iconic feature that has become a distinguishing trait for many Korean actors is their mustaches. Throughout the years, Korean actors have sported various styles of facial hair, from thick and rugged to neatly trimmed and sophisticated, adding charisma and depth to their characters.
This trend isn't new; even in historical dramas, Korean actors have long used mustaches to define their roles. It's now one of the identifiers of Korean actors in the global scene, alongside their unique names and cultural dramas.
Mustaches in Historical Dramas
Historical dramas are a significant part of Korean entertainment. Mustaches here take us back to a time where men, especially in royal courts and military positions, wore them as signs of status and maturity.
One notable role is that ofKing Sejong in "Crown Prince YiCheol," played by actor Ji Jin-hee. His thick mustache personified his authority and wisdom as a monarch, making it an unforgettable part of his character.
G cycle mustache
The G cycle mustache, where the hair forms a crescent shape, is a classic historical look. In "Moon Embracing the Sun," actor Lee Min-ho expertly wore this style, accompanying his role as Crown Prince Lee Hwon, enhancing his regal appearance.
Another example is "Six Flying Dragons" where actor Yoo Ah-in carried an impressive mustache as Prince Wang Jon, a historical figure known for his mustache.
Natural thick mustache
Some actors opt for a natural, thick mustache, reminiscent of the traditional Korean mustache style. In "QT8," actor Lee Jung-jae's thick, bristly mustache was a perfect fit for his gangster role, adding to the authenticity of the character.
Similarly, in his role as a tough news anchor in "VIP," actor Jo Sung-ha's thick mustache gave his character a certain gravitas and authority.
Mustaches beyond Period Dramas
In modern dramas and films, Korean actors continue to explore the versatility of mustaches, sporting various styles to reflect their characters' personalities.
In "Crash Landing on You," actor Hyun Bin's neatly trimmed mustache added an extra layer of charm to his character Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok, making it a signature part of his look in the drama.
Trimmed and sophisticated
Slightly trimmed, well-groomed mustaches have become a symbol of sophistication and professionalism among modern Korean actors. In "It's Okay to Not Be Okay," actor Kim Soo-hyun's trimmed mustache added to his serious and accomplished image as a mysterious children's bookauthor.
Actor Jo In-sung's trimmed mustache in "That Winter, the Wind Blows" also contributed to his character's sophistication and maturity.
Funky and unique
Some actors choose to sport wild and unique mustache styles to differentiate their characters. In "Pachinko," actor Lee Min-ho's character, Kim Yong-jin, sports an eccentric handlebar mustache, complementing his unconventional and charismatic character.
Actor Park Seo-joon's mustache in "Itaewon Class" is a departure from the traditional Korean mustache, rather a European-inspired look, reflecting his character's unique background and attitude.
In the vibrant world of Korean entertainment, the mustache serves as more than just a facial hair trend. It's a storytelling tool, helping actors bring their characters to life and captivate audiences worldwide. As we look forward to more Korean dramas and films, we eagerly anticipate the fresh mustache styles that will grace our screens.