Jeon Bae Soo
Info
🙂 Native Name: 전배수
🌏 Nationality: South Korean
♂️ Gender: Male
🎂 Born: June 2, 1970
🏠 Birth Place: Imsil-gun, North Jeolla Province, South Korea
🌌 Zodiac Sign: Gemini
📏 Height: Approximately 5’6″ (167.6 cm)
💍 Spouse: Unmarried
👶 Children: None
Biography
Jeon Bae-soo, born on June 2, 1970, in Imsil-gun, North Jeolla Province, South Korea, is a seasoned actor renowned for his compelling supporting roles in both film and television. He embarked on his acting journey in 2004, initially taking on minor roles before gaining significant recognition in 2016 with his performances in the television series The K2 and Becky’s Back .
Throughout his career, Jeon has showcased his versatility across various genres. Notably, in 2019, he portrayed Captain Byun in the romantic comedy-thriller When the Camellia Blooms, earning a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the KBS Drama Awards . His role as Nam So-ju, a dedicated firefighter and father, in the 2022 Netflix series All of Us Are Dead further solidified his reputation as a reliable character actor.
In addition to his television work, Jeon has appeared in numerous films, including The Wailing (2016), #Alive (2020), and Kingmaker (2022), where he played Lee’s assistant . His performances often bring depth and authenticity to the characters he portrays, making him a respected figure in the South Korean entertainment industry.
As of 2025, Jeon Bae-soo continues to be active in the industry, with recent roles in series such as Queen of Tears (2024) and Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022), where he played Woo Gwang-ho, the supportive father of the titular character . His enduring presence on screen reflects his dedication to his craft and his ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
Hobbies
Reading Historical Novels – Jeon Bae-soo has mentioned enjoying Korean history and likely reads to build depth in his historical drama roles.
Watching Classic Films – He appreciates classic Korean and international cinema, often drawing inspiration from legendary performances.
Walking in Nature – As someone from North Jeolla Province, he enjoys outdoor strolls and scenic spots to clear his mind.
Practicing Scripts Aloud – Jeon has a habit of rehearsing lines aloud in different tones to explore a character’s depth.
Cooking Simple Korean Dishes – While not a professional chef, he has said in interviews that he enjoys making comfort food when off set.
Interests
Supporting Emerging Actors – He often speaks about the importance of mentorship and enjoys guiding younger colleagues.
Psychological Character Study – Jeon is fascinated by layered, morally complex characters and often researches human behavior.
Stage Acting Techniques – Even as a screen actor, he’s deeply interested in the discipline of theater performance.
Social Commentary Through Art – Many of his role choices reflect social issues, showing his interest in impactful storytelling.
Voice Acting – He has shown interest in voice work, believing it sharpens vocal control and emotional delivery.
Facts
Late Bloomer in Fame – Although he started acting in 2004, his breakout roles didn’t come until over a decade later.
No Social Media Presence – He is known for keeping a low profile and is not active on Instagram, Twitter, or other platforms.
Appeared in Both Indie and Blockbuster Projects – From The Wailing to All of Us Are Dead, his range is wide.
Frequently Cast as a Father – His natural warmth and authority make him a go-to actor for caring or conflicted dad roles.
Has Never Starred in a Lead Role – Despite being widely recognized, he usually takes on powerful supporting characters.
Secrets
Prefers Villain Roles – While often cast in warm roles, he secretly enjoys playing darker characters for the challenge.
Keeps a Private Journal – Rumors suggest he maintains a personal journal to reflect on acting and emotions.
Almost Quit Acting in 2010 – A period of career stagnation nearly led him to retire before a string of new opportunities arose.
Has Stage Fright – Despite decades of experience, he reportedly gets nervous before live or intense emotional scenes.
Turned Down Idol Drama Roles – He once declined a role in a youth idol drama to stay aligned with his artistic preferences.
Funny Things
Talks to His TV Characters – He jokingly admits to “scolding” or “encouraging” his own characters while watching on TV.
Once Forgot He Was in a Scene – During an ensemble shoot, he stood still for so long that the director thought he was a background extra.
Wears Lucky Socks on Set – He has a quirky tradition of wearing the same pair of socks on the first day of shooting.
Accidentally Called a Co-Star by Their Character’s Name – In a press event, he slipped into script mode.
Has a Signature Yawn – Castmates tease him about a uniquely dramatic yawn he often does between takes.
Fears
Losing His Voice – As an actor who values voice tone, he fears vocal damage the most.
Being Typecast Forever – Though often praised for father roles, he worries about being limited creatively.
Technological Dependence in Acting – He’s cautious about AI and CGI replacing genuine acting.
Sudden Career End – Having worked hard to rise later in life, he fears an abrupt end to his career.
Failing to Connect with Audiences – His biggest concern is losing the emotional bond he forms through each character.
News
1. Jeon Bae-soo Stars in MBC’s Undercover High School (2025)
In early 2025, Jeon Bae-soo took on the role of Ahn Seok-ho, a National Intelligence Service team leader, in MBC’s action-thriller Undercover High School. His portrayal of a mentor with hidden depths received acclaim for its emotional nuance and chemistry with co-star Seo Kang-joon. The drama premiered in February and quickly became a hit across Asia.
2. Heartfelt Reflections on Queen of Tears (2024)
Portraying Baek Doo-kwan, the father of Kim Soo-hyun’s character, in tvN’s Queen of Tears, Jeon Bae-soo shared his gratitude for the warm filming environment. He expressed admiration for his co-stars, particularly Kim Soo-hyun, and the directors, highlighting the supportive atmosphere on set.
3. Breakthrough Role in Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022)
Jeon Bae-soo gained widespread recognition for his role as Woo Gwang-ho, the devoted single father of an autistic lawyer, in ENA’s Extraordinary Attorney Woo. He praised lead actress Park Eun-bin for her professionalism and shared how the drama’s success led to increased public recognition, with fans affectionately calling him “Woo Young-woo’s dad.”
4. Lead Role in KBS Drama Face Me (2024)
In 2024, Jeon Bae-soo played Kim Seok-hoon, the eccentric director of a plastic surgery clinic, in KBS’s mystery-thriller Face Me. His performance added depth to the series, which explored themes of identity and healing.
5. Memorable Cameo in When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025)
Jeon Bae-soo made a notable special appearance as a strict boarding house owner in the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines. Despite limited screen time, his impactful performance added a memorable layer to the series.
TV Drama
Movies
Music / OST
There is no publicly available information indicating that Jeon Bae-soo has pursued a professional music career. He is primarily recognized for his extensive work in South Korean television, film, and theater. While he has participated in musical theater productions, such as the Korean adaptation of the German musical Subway Line 1, there is no record of him releasing music albums, singles, or engaging in solo musical performances.
Jeon Bae-soo’s talents are predominantly showcased through his acting roles in various dramas and films, including notable works like The K2, When the Camellia Blooms, Mr. Queen, and All of Us Are Dead. His contributions to the entertainment industry are well-regarded, but they do not encompass a separate music career.
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