Jo Jung Suk
Info
🙂 Native Name: 조정석 (Jo Jung Suk)
🌏 Nationality: South Korean
♂️ Gender: Male
🎂 Born: December 26, 1980
🏠 Birth Place: Seoul, South Korea
🌌 Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
📏 Height: 175 cm (5’9″)
💍 Spouse: Gummy (real name Park Ji Yeon), married on October 8, 2018
👶 Children: One daughter, born on August 6, 2020, with Gummy
Biography
Jo Jung Suk, born on December 26, 1980, in Seoul, South Korea, had a modest beginning in the entertainment industry. After his father passed away during his childhood, Jo became the primary supporter for his family. To follow his passion for acting, he enrolled at the Seoul Institute of the Arts, but financial difficulties forced him to leave before graduating. Despite this setback, he began working in theater, where he honed his craft. Jo quickly built a reputation for his talent and dedication, establishing himself as a promising figure in South Korean theater.
Jo’s big break came in 2012 when he transitioned from stage to screen with the popular film Architecture 101. His portrayal of Nab-ddeuk, a humorous and loyal friend, captured audiences’ hearts, turning him into an overnight sensation. The role showcased his ability to balance comedy and emotion, which became a signature style in his subsequent performances. Following the success of Architecture 101, Jo landed significant roles in dramas like The King 2 Hearts, where he played a soldier with a hidden talent for dance. This role further proved his versatility and won him a Best New Actor award, marking his arrival in mainstream Korean entertainment.
In the years that followed, Jo took on more challenging roles, cementing his status as a versatile actor. One of his career-defining performances came in the 2019 disaster-action film Exit, where he starred as Yong-nam, a jobless man who uses his rock-climbing skills to save people from a chemical gas disaster. The film was a major box-office success, with Jo’s performance praised for its blend of humor, action, and emotion. That same year, Jo took on the role of Dr. Ik-jun in Hospital Playlist, a medical drama that became an instant hit. His portrayal of a humorous and compassionate surgeon earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his popularity with fans.
Beyond his career, Jo’s personal life has also drawn media attention, especially his relationship with singer Gummy. The couple married in a private ceremony in 2018 and welcomed their first child, a daughter, in 2020. Known for keeping his private life out of the spotlight, Jo has spoken about how family has brought him balance and joy. From his theater beginnings to his rise in film and television, Jo Jung Suk’s career is marked by resilience and growth. His ability to adapt to various genres and connect deeply with his characters has made him one of South Korea’s most beloved actors.
Hobbies
Playing the Guitar: Jo Jung Suk enjoys playing the guitar in his free time, a skill he has even showcased in the drama Hospital Playlist, where he played a talented surgeon with a passion for music.
Singing: Married to renowned singer Gummy, Jo shares a love for singing and occasionally performs at events or in his dramas, impressing fans with his vocal talent.
Cooking: Known for his love of food, Jo finds relaxation in cooking at home. He has shared that he enjoys experimenting with new recipes and flavors for family meals.
Watching Films: Jo is a dedicated film enthusiast and enjoys watching a variety of genres, gaining inspiration and insight into different acting techniques from international cinema.
Traveling: When his schedule allows, Jo loves traveling with family and friends, exploring new places and cultures, which he finds refreshing and inspiring.
Interests
Music: With a passion for singing and guitar playing, Jo has a deep interest in music, which is evident in his musical roles and his marriage to Gummy, one of South Korea’s top vocalists.
Theater: Although he’s now known for his screen performances, Jo started his career in theater and continues to have a strong appreciation for live performances, which shaped his early career.
Comedy: Jo enjoys light-hearted humor and is known for his comedic timing. He has a particular interest in the comedic aspects of acting and often incorporates humor into his roles.
Physical Fitness: For roles like Exit, Jo trained extensively in rock climbing, which sparked a personal interest in fitness and maintaining strength for physically demanding roles.
Philanthropy: Jo is known for his kind heart and frequently supports charity events and initiatives, reflecting his desire to make a positive impact on society.
Facts
Musical Background: Jo initially started his acting journey in musical theater, appearing in productions like Hedwig and the Angry Inch, showcasing his powerful voice and stage presence.
Stage Name: Although he’s well-known by his birth name, Jo Jung Suk, he briefly considered adopting a stage name early in his career but decided against it to keep his identity authentic.
Close to Family: After losing his father at a young age, Jo became the primary caregiver for his mother. His dedication to family continues, with family being a central part of his life.
Award-Winning Actor: Jo has received numerous awards, including Best New Actor for his role in The King 2 Hearts, marking his recognition as one of Korea’s versatile actors.
Guitar Scenes in Hospital Playlist: His guitar scenes in Hospital Playlist were all real, as Jo didn’t use a double for his musical scenes, impressing fans with his genuine talent.
Secrets
Private Family Life: Jo is highly protective of his family’s privacy and rarely shares personal details about his wife, Gummy, or their daughter to keep their lives out of the spotlight.
Introverted Nature: Despite his lively on-screen personality, Jo is naturally introverted and enjoys spending quiet time at home, often relaxing with family or engaging in solo activities.
Behind-the-Scenes Humor: Known to his co-stars for his wit, Jo often makes jokes or improvises on set to ease the mood, though he rarely shows this side in public.
Stage Anxiety: Jo has confessed to feeling nervous before live performances and press events, though he overcomes it with his professionalism and dedication to his craft.
Creative Vision for Roles: Jo often secretly creates detailed backstories for his characters, adding depth to his performances, a process he rarely shares with others.
Funny Things
Comedic Improvisation: Jo is known to improvise lines or actions on set, often resulting in funny, unexpected moments that make it into the final cut, like in Hospital Playlist.
Fan Surprises: Jo once surprised fans by showing up to a fan meeting in a quirky costume, humorously downplaying his celebrity status and making fans laugh.
Bloopers on Set: Jo has a habit of breaking character and laughing during serious scenes, making it hard for his co-stars to stay focused, much to their amusement.
Imitation Skills: He’s known for mimicking fellow actors and directors’ mannerisms, entertaining his colleagues with funny impressions during breaks on set.
Self-Deprecating Humor: Jo often jokes about his looks or habits in interviews, embracing his flaws and endearing himself to fans with his humble and humorous personality.
Fears
Fear of Failure: Jo admits to a strong sense of responsibility in every role and fears disappointing his fans and team, pushing him to work tirelessly for perfection.
Stage Fright: Despite his theatrical background, Jo experiences stage fright before major performances or public appearances, which he overcomes through deep breathing exercises.
Loss of Privacy: Jo values his personal life and fears losing privacy due to fame, especially regarding his family. This drives his decision to keep his personal matters private.
High Expectations: Jo feels pressured by the high expectations from fans and industry peers, often fearing that he may not live up to the standards set by previous successes.
Health and Well-being: Jo has a fear of health issues affecting his ability to work or support his family, making him careful about his health and physical well-being.
News
Release of Debut Solo Album (September 2024): After two decades in the entertainment industry, Jo Jung Suk announced the release of his first full-length solo album, self-titled “Jo Jung Suk,” on September 9, 2024. He actively participated as a lyricist, composer, and producer for all tracks, showcasing his deep passion for music.
Starring Role in “Captivating the King” (January 2024): Jo Jung Suk took on the lead role of King Yi In in the historical drama “Captivating the King,” which premiered on January 21, 2024. The series, aired on tvN and available on Netflix, received positive reviews for its compelling storyline and Jo’s performance.
Participation in Netflix Reality Series “A List to Playlist” (August 2024): Alongside his album release, Jo Jung Suk shared his musical journey through the Netflix reality series “A List to Playlist,” which premiered worldwide on August 30, 2024. The show provided fans with an intimate look into his transition from acting to music.
Lead Role in Comedy Film “Pilot” (July 2024): In July 2024, Jo Jung Suk starred in the comedy film “Pilot,” portraying a cross-dressing pilot. He expressed that he didn’t feel pressured by the role, as the story resonated with him, allowing him to deliver a natural and engaging performance.
Marriage to Singer Gummy and Birth of Daughter (2018 & 2020): Jo Jung Suk married renowned singer Gummy (Park Ji Yeon) on October 8, 2018. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, on August 6, 2020. Their relationship has been admired by fans, highlighting a harmonious balance between their personal and professional lives.
TV Drama
Movies
Music / OST
Jo Jung Suk, widely recognized for his acting career, has also quietly built a noteworthy presence in the South Korean music industry. While he initially captivated audiences with his performances in dramas and films, his love for music has always been a significant part of his life. Early in his career, Jo started in musical theater, starring in productions such as Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Spring Awakening, and The Harmonium in My Memory. His strong vocal abilities shone through in these roles, impressing both audiences and industry professionals and helping him transition into mainstream acting.
In recent years, Jo has expanded his musical endeavors. In 2024, he released his debut solo album, titled Jo Jung Suk, which quickly garnered attention from fans and critics alike. Not just a vocalist, Jo was deeply involved in the album’s production, contributing as a lyricist and composer. His work on the album reflected his dedication to creating authentic music, with each song offering a blend of soulful lyrics and heartfelt melodies. This self-titled album was a testament to his passion for music and his desire to connect with fans on a deeper level through song.
Jo Jung Suk’s music was further highlighted when he appeared on the Netflix reality series A List to Playlist, which documented his journey from acting to releasing his first album. This series provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at his transition into music, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of blending his two artistic passions. His role on the show introduced a new side of Jo to the public, one that was dedicated to honing his skills and pushing creative boundaries.
Jo’s music has also featured in his acting projects, notably in Hospital Playlist, where he performed the song Aloha, which became a chart-topping hit in South Korea. The song’s success brought widespread attention to his musical abilities, cementing his place as a dual talent in both acting and music. Jo’s genuine enthusiasm for music continues to shine, and he often expresses his gratitude for the support he receives from fans who appreciate his work in both fields.
Today, Jo Jung Suk stands as a versatile artist who seamlessly blends his love for acting and music. His journey from musical theater to a solo music career has solidified his reputation as one of South Korea’s most beloved multi-talented entertainers.
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