Top 10 Most Famous Nam Joo Hyuk Dramas You Must Watch

Nam Joo Hyuk has become one of South Korea’s most beloved actors thanks to his charming personality, emotional performances, and incredible on-screen chemistry with his co-stars. After starting his career as a model, he quickly rose to fame through hit romantic comedies, youth dramas, fantasy series, and action thrillers. Whether you’re looking for heart-fluttering romance or intense action, his drama lineup offers something for every K-drama fan.

Here’s our list of the Top 10 Most Famous Nam Joo Hyuk Dramas that every fan should watch.

1. Twenty-Five Twenty-One (2022)

Genre: Romance, Youth, Coming-of-Age

Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk, Kim Tae Ri, Bona, Choi Hyun Wook, Lee Joo Myung

Twenty-Five Twenty-One is widely considered the best drama of Nam Joo Hyuk’s career and one of the most acclaimed Korean dramas of recent years. Set during South Korea’s IMF financial crisis in the late 1990s, the story follows Baek Yi Jin, a young man whose wealthy family loses everything overnight. Forced to work multiple part-time jobs to support himself, Yi Jin eventually pursues a career in journalism while trying to rebuild his life. Along the way, he meets talented high school fencer Na Hee Do, whose determination and optimistic outlook slowly change his perspective. As the two grow closer, they share a beautiful journey filled with friendship, first love, dreams, and heartbreak, making their relationship one of the most memorable in K-drama history.

Nam Joo Hyuk delivers an emotionally powerful performance as Baek Yi Jin, portraying the character’s quiet strength, vulnerability, and personal growth with remarkable sincerity. His natural chemistry with Kim Tae Ri received widespread praise and became one of the biggest reasons behind the drama’s global success. Beyond its romance, Twenty-Five Twenty-One explores the realities of growing up, overcoming hardships, and chasing dreams despite life’s uncertainties. Combined with nostalgic storytelling, outstanding cinematography, and an unforgettable soundtrack, the drama became one of 2022’s biggest hits and remains a must-watch for anyone discovering Nam Joo Hyuk’s work.

2. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo (2016–2017)

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Sports, Youth

Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk, Lee Sung Kyung, Kyung Soo Jin, Lee Jae Yoon

Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is one of the most beloved romantic comedies ever produced in South Korea. The drama follows Kim Bok Joo, a talented college weightlifter pursuing her dream of becoming a national athlete, and Jung Joon Hyung, an elite swimmer played by Nam Joo Hyuk. After reconnecting as childhood friends, their playful friendship gradually develops into a heartwarming romance built on trust, encouragement, and unconditional support. Set against the backdrop of university life, the series beautifully balances romance, friendship, family relationships, and the pressures young athletes face while chasing their dreams.

Nam Joo Hyuk perfectly captures Jung Joon Hyung’s cheerful personality, playful humor, and caring nature, creating one of the most lovable male leads in K-drama history. His on-screen chemistry with Lee Sung Kyung feels incredibly natural, making every romantic moment both believable and memorable. Unlike many romance dramas filled with unnecessary misunderstandings, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo focuses on healthy communication and emotional growth, which is one of the reasons it remains a fan favorite years after its release. Filled with laughter, touching life lessons, and unforgettable romance, this drama remains one of Nam Joo Hyuk’s most iconic projects.

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3. Start-Up (2020)

Genre: Romance, Business, Youth

Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk, Bae Suzy, Kim Seon Ho, Kang Han Na

Start-Up takes viewers into the competitive world of South Korea’s technology industry, where ambitious young entrepreneurs dream of building successful companies. Nam Joo Hyuk stars as Nam Do San, a brilliant programmer and founder of the small startup Samsan Tech. Although he possesses exceptional coding skills, he struggles with self-confidence and hopes to turn his innovative ideas into a successful business. His life changes after meeting Seo Dal Mi, a determined young woman who dreams of becoming Korea’s next great entrepreneur. Together with their team, they navigate business competitions, investment opportunities, personal setbacks, and complicated relationships while chasing success.

Nam Joo Hyuk gives a heartfelt performance as Nam Do San, portraying him as an intelligent yet emotionally vulnerable young man searching for both professional success and personal happiness. His character’s journey of overcoming self-doubt and learning to believe in himself resonates with many viewers, especially young professionals pursuing their own dreams. The drama combines romance with inspiring themes of ambition, perseverance, friendship, and innovation, making it much more than a typical love story. Despite the famous love triangle that sparked endless discussions among fans, Start-Up remains one of Nam Joo Hyuk’s most popular dramas and a favorite among viewers who enjoy motivational stories with emotional depth.

4. Vigilante (2023)

Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller

Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk, Yoo Ji Tae, Lee Jun Hyuk, Kim So Jin

Vigilante marked a bold new chapter in Nam Joo Hyuk’s acting career, proving he could successfully lead a dark action thriller. Based on the popular webtoon, the drama follows Kim Ji Yong, a top police academy student who secretly becomes a vigilante every weekend. Haunted by the murder of his mother when he was a child, Ji Yong loses faith in the justice system after seeing dangerous criminals receive light punishments. Determined to protect innocent people, he begins tracking down repeat offenders and delivering his own form of justice. As his actions gain nationwide attention, he finds himself hunted by police while also becoming a symbol of hope for many citizens.

Nam Joo Hyuk gives one of the most intense performances of his career, portraying Ji Yong’s emotional pain, determination, and inner conflict with remarkable maturity. The drama features realistic fight scenes, gripping suspense, and thought-provoking themes about justice, revenge, and morality. Unlike his previous romantic roles, Vigilante showcases a darker and more serious side of the actor, earning praise from both critics and fans. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller with powerful action and emotional storytelling, this drama is one of Nam Joo Hyuk’s finest performances.

5. The Light in Your Eyes (Radiant) (2019)

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Melodrama

Cast: Han Ji Min, Kim Hye Ja, Nam Joo Hyuk, Son Ho Jun

The Light in Your Eyes, also known as Radiant, is one of the most emotional Korean dramas ever made. The story follows a young woman whose life changes after discovering a magical watch that can turn back time but causes her to age rapidly whenever she uses it. Nam Joo Hyuk plays Lee Joon Ha, an aspiring journalist who dreams of exposing corruption while struggling to achieve success in both his career and personal life. As fate brings the two characters together, they learn valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, family, and the importance of appreciating every moment.

Nam Joo Hyuk delivers a calm and heartfelt performance that perfectly suits the drama’s emotional tone. Rather than relying on dramatic moments, he expresses his character’s hopes and disappointments through subtle emotions, making Lee Joon Ha feel incredibly realistic. With its touching story, unforgettable plot twist, and meaningful message about life and time, The Light in Your Eyes received widespread critical acclaim and remains one of the highest-rated dramas in Nam Joo Hyuk’s career. It is a must-watch for viewers who enjoy emotional stories that leave a lasting impression.

6. Who Are You: School 2015 (2015)

Genre: School, Mystery, Romance

Cast: Kim So Hyun, Nam Joo Hyuk, Yook Sung Jae

Who Are You: School 2015 was the drama that introduced Nam Joo Hyuk to a wider audience and helped establish him as one of Korea’s rising young actors. The story revolves around identical twin sisters whose lives take unexpected turns after a tragic incident leads one sister to lose her memories and unknowingly begin living the other’s life. As hidden secrets, school bullying, and mysterious events unfold, the drama blends romance with an engaging mystery that keeps viewers invested until the very end. Nam Joo Hyuk plays Han Yi An, a talented swimmer who has quietly loved his childhood friend for years.

As Han Yi An, Nam Joo Hyuk perfectly portrays the emotions of first love, loyalty, jealousy, and heartbreak. His sincere performance made the character one of the most memorable parts of the series and earned him recognition as a promising young actor. Beyond its romantic storyline, the drama also tackles important issues such as bullying, identity, friendship, and self-discovery, making it much more than a typical high school romance. Even years after its release, Who Are You: School 2015 remains one of the best youth dramas and an essential watch for anyone exploring Nam Joo Hyuk’s early acting career.

7. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)

Genre: Historical, Fantasy, Romance

Cast: Lee Joon Gi, IU, Kang Ha Neul, Nam Joo Hyuk, Ji Soo, Baekhyun

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is one of the most iconic historical K-dramas of all time and remains a fan favorite years after its release. The story follows a modern-day woman who is mysteriously transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty during a solar eclipse. There, she becomes entangled in the lives of several royal princes, leading to intense palace politics, heartbreaking romance, and fierce battles for the throne. Nam Joo Hyuk plays 13th Prince Wang Wook, a gentle, artistic, and free-spirited prince who prefers music and painting over power struggles. Although he isn’t the central male lead, his kind-hearted personality makes him one of the most lovable characters in the royal family.

Nam Joo Hyuk brings warmth and charm to the role, offering a refreshing contrast to the darker personalities surrounding him. His performance highlights the prince’s compassion, loyalty, and quiet strength, making viewers sympathize with his character throughout the series. Filled with breathtaking cinematography, emotional storytelling, unforgettable romances, and shocking twists, Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo has gained a massive international fanbase. It remains one of Nam Joo Hyuk’s most recognized supporting roles and is a must-watch for fans of historical romance dramas.

8. Bride of the Water God (2017)

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk, Shin Se Kyung, Gong Myung, Krystal Jung, Lim Ju Hwan

In Bride of the Water God, Nam Joo Hyuk takes on the unique role of Ha Baek, the powerful god of water who descends to Earth on a mission to retrieve sacred stones needed to become the king of the divine realm. However, his journey becomes far more complicated after meeting psychiatrist Yoon So Ah, a woman destined to serve the gods despite not believing in their existence. As the two spend more time together, their relationship slowly develops into a heartfelt romance while mysterious supernatural events continue to unfold around them.

The drama allowed Nam Joo Hyuk to showcase a more elegant and charismatic side of his acting, balancing Ha Baek’s confidence with moments of humor and emotional vulnerability. His chemistry with Shin Se Kyung adds warmth to the fantasy storyline, while the visually stunning production and mythology-inspired world make the drama enjoyable for fantasy lovers. Although opinions on the adaptation were mixed, Bride of the Water God remains one of Nam Joo Hyuk’s most visually memorable dramas and is worth watching for fans who enjoy supernatural romance.

9. The School Nurse Files (2020)

Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Comedy

Cast: Jung Yu Mi, Nam Joo Hyuk

The School Nurse Files is one of the most unique dramas in Nam Joo Hyuk’s career. Based on a popular novel, the story follows school nurse Ahn Eun Young, who possesses the extraordinary ability to see strange jelly-like creatures that represent human emotions and desires. As she protects students from these supernatural beings, she receives unexpected help from fellow teacher Hong In Pyo, played by Nam Joo Hyuk. Together, they uncover mysterious secrets hidden within the school while confronting bizarre supernatural threats.

Although Nam Joo Hyuk plays a quieter supporting role, his calm and dependable performance provides the perfect balance to the drama’s quirky and imaginative storyline. The series stands out for its creative visuals, unusual storytelling, and blend of fantasy, mystery, and humor. Unlike traditional Korean dramas, The School Nurse Files offers a fresh viewing experience that keeps audiences guessing until the end. Fans looking to see Nam Joo Hyuk in something completely different will definitely enjoy this short but entertaining Netflix series.

10. Cheese in the Trap (2016)

Genre: Romance, Campus, Drama

Cast: Park Hae Jin, Kim Go Eun, Seo Kang Joon, Nam Joo Hyuk, Lee Sung Kyung

Cheese in the Trap explores the complicated relationships and hidden personalities of university students as they navigate love, friendship, and academic life. While the story mainly focuses on the mysterious relationship between Yoo Jung and Hong Seol, Nam Joo Hyuk plays Kwon Eun Taek, a cheerful and loyal student who brings warmth and positivity to the series. His character develops a sweet romance with Lee Sung Kyung’s Baek In Ha, providing viewers with many lighthearted moments amid the drama’s more serious themes.

Although his role isn’t as large as his later leading performances, Cheese in the Trap played an important part in Nam Joo Hyuk’s early acting career. His natural charm and easygoing personality made him stand out, helping him gain recognition before landing major lead roles. The drama’s realistic portrayal of college life, complicated relationships, and emotional conflicts continues to attract new viewers, making it a memorable addition to Nam Joo Hyuk’s growing filmography.

Conclusion

Over the years, Nam Joo Hyuk has built an impressive career by taking on a wide variety of roles that showcase his versatility as an actor. From the heartwarming romance of Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo and the emotional storytelling of Twenty-Five Twenty-One to the thrilling action of Vigilante and the fantasy world of Bride of the Water God, he has consistently delivered memorable performances that resonate with audiences around the world. His ability to portray relatable characters with sincerity and emotional depth has made him one of the most beloved stars of the Korean entertainment industry.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his work, these ten dramas offer the perfect introduction to Nam Joo Hyuk’s acting journey. Each series highlights a different side of his talent, proving why he continues to be one of the most sought-after actors in K-dramas. If you’re planning your next binge-watch, you can’t go wrong with any of the titles on this list.

FAQs

1. What is Nam Joo Hyuk’s most popular drama?

Twenty-Five Twenty-One is widely considered Nam Joo Hyuk’s most popular and critically acclaimed drama. His performance as Baek Yi Jin earned praise from fans and critics alike, making it one of the defining roles of his career.

2. Which Nam Joo Hyuk drama is best for romance lovers?

If you enjoy romantic K-dramas, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, Twenty-Five Twenty-One, and Start-Up are excellent choices. These dramas feature heartwarming love stories, memorable couples, and emotional character development.

3. Which Nam Joo Hyuk drama has the best action?

Vigilante is Nam Joo Hyuk’s best action drama. It showcases his impressive fight scenes, intense performance, and ability to take on darker, more mature roles.

4. What was Nam Joo Hyuk’s breakthrough drama?

Who Are You: School 2015 is considered Nam Joo Hyuk’s breakthrough drama. His role as Han Yi An introduced him to a wider audience and opened the door to many leading roles.

5. Is Start-Up worth watching?

Yes. Start-Up is worth watching for its inspiring story about entrepreneurship, friendship, and chasing your dreams. Nam Joo Hyuk’s performance as Nam Do San is one of the highlights of the series.

6. Which Nam Joo Hyuk drama should beginners watch first?

If you’re new to his work, start with Twenty-Five Twenty-One, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, or Start-Up. These dramas best showcase his acting range and are among his most loved performances.

7. Where can I watch Nam Joo Hyuk’s dramas?

Many of Nam Joo Hyuk’s dramas are available on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Viki, and other regional streaming services, depending on your country.

8. Which is the saddest Nam Joo Hyuk drama?

The Light in Your Eyes (Radiant) and Twenty-Five Twenty-One are considered two of his most emotional dramas, both featuring touching stories that leave a lasting impact on viewers.