7 Interesting Hobbies of Korean Movie Stars
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When you think of Korean movie stars, what comes to mind? Red carpets? Dramatic scenes or high-status events? Movie stars are undoubtedly special people in society, but it is important to remember that even behind the spotlight, they still have their personal interests where they can express a very different side of who they are outside of the public eye. Some enjoy peaceful artistic pleasures, while others prefer adrenaline, extreme sports, or even a casual casino game.
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Let's take a closer look at him and other Korean stars with surprising hobbies, and what those interests say about them.
1. Lee Min-ho, Casino Player and Travel Lover
Lee Min-ho, star of "Boys over Flowers" and "The Heirs", has always kept fans intrigued with his off-screen charm. In 2014, he was photographed at a legal casino in New Zealand during a work trip. His agency clarified it was a casual stop, but it still drew attention.
Many international players now prefer casino games online as these provide perks like immediate payouts and vast game libraries that include everything from online poker to craps. However, for celebrities, physical casinos are still a major draw. Whether Lee played roulette, poker, or a quick craps game during his casino visit is anybody's guess. With just two dice, craps makes for one of the most thrilling games you can play at the casino.
Outside of acting, Lee is also passionate about travel and often shares glimpses of his scenic getaways online.
2. Cho Seung-woo, Card Mastery and Theater Roots
Cho Seung-woo, well known for his role in "Tazza: The High Rollers", trained intensively in traditional Korean card techniques to make his performance as real as possible. That dedication reflects his deep commitment to the craft. Away from the camera, Cho is a respected musical theater actor, often taking on leading roles in major productions. His love for the stage has made him one of Korea's few true crossover performers.
3. Ha Jung-woo, Painter and Director
Ha Jung-woo, known for "The Chaser" and "The Handmaiden", has long pursued painting alongside his film career. His expressive artwork, often bold and colorful, has been displayed in several exhibitions since 2007. For Ha, painting is more than a hobby, it's another way to tell stories. He has also directed films, showing that his creativity isn't limited to acting alone.
4. Han Hyo-joo, Musician and Endurance Athlete
Han Hyo-joo brings a mix of elegance and strength both on-screen and off. She plays piano and guitar, even performing live at fan events. She's also an endurance sports fan and once participated in the World Triathlon Cup in Tongyeong. Whether it's through music or sport, Han always seems to be pushing herself in new directions.
5. Cha Tae-hyun, Golf and Family Life
Cha Tae-hyun, the beloved actor from "My Sassy Girl", is a laid-back personality off-screen. These days, he enjoys golfing and spending time with his family. He's also a regular face on variety shows, where his natural humor and easygoing nature shine. Despite a long career, he's managed to stay grounded, focusing more on quality time than constant hustle.
6. Choi Min-sik, Art Films and Low-Profile Living
Choi Min-sik, the powerhouse actor from "Oldboy" and "Big Bet", chooses his projects carefully and tends to avoid the media spotlight when he's not filming. Off-screen, he's known to lead a quiet life, focused more on the roles he plays than the fame that comes with them. His ability to dive deep into character roles comes from a focused, private mindset.
7. Lee Jung-jae, Business and Design Enthusiast
After his global breakout in "Squid Game", Lee Jung-jae didn't just enjoy the limelight; he expanded his interests behind the scenes. He co-founded an entertainment company, invested in hospitality, and developed a taste for art and interior design. His off-screen style is polished and thoughtful, much like the roles he plays.
Why Their Hobbies Matter
With so many new movies opening up on the Korean stage, it is important to remember that these stories show a side beyond glam and red carpets. Lee Min-ho playing in a New Zealand casino, Cho Seung-woo honing his card game, Ha Jung-woo with a paintbrush, they reveal real, relatable people behind the celebrity and usual relationship gossip.
Whether they're throwing dice at a casino, mastering a canvas, or diving in the ocean, these actors remind us that fame includes private passion. These hobbies say something about who they are, not just the roles they play.