Kim Bum
Info
🙂 Native Name: 김범
🌏 Nationality: South Korean
♂️ Gender: Male
🎂 Born: July 7, 1989
🏠 Birth Place: Seoul, South Korea
🌌 Zodiac Sign: Cancer
📏 Height: 181 cm
💍 Spouse: Unmarried
👶 Children: None
Biography
Kim Bum, born on July 7, 1989, in Seoul, South Korea, is a versatile actor and model who rose to fame as one of the most beloved second leads in Korean drama history. He studied at Chung-Ang University, majoring in film and theater, which laid the foundation for his professional acting career. Though he initially entered the industry through a survival audition show, his breakout came in 2009 with the role of So Yi-jung in the mega-hit drama “Boys Over Flowers”. His portrayal of the charming, emotionally complex F4 member made him a household name across Asia.
Following that success, Kim Bum quickly proved he was more than just a pretty face. He took on more diverse roles, such as in “Padam Padam” (2011), where he played a guardian angel figure, and “That Winter, The Wind Blows” (2013), which showcased his ability to deliver emotionally layered performances. His role in “Goddess of Fire” also highlighted his growing maturity as an actor. During this time, he began to build a strong fanbase in China as well, even starring in Chinese dramas like “V Love” and “Young Detective Dee”, further cementing his Hallyu star status.
In 2014, Kim Bum faced a significant challenge when he was diagnosed with degenerative arthritis. This led to a noticeable transformation in his appearance due to weight loss and a temporary break from intense filming schedules. After receiving treatment and making lifestyle changes, he returned stronger, choosing to pursue more character-driven roles. His comeback project, “Tale of the Nine Tailed” (2020), was met with critical acclaim, where he played the unpredictable and powerful gumiho Lee Rang. The drama revived his popularity and introduced him to a new generation of K-drama fans.
Despite his early fame, Kim Bum has remained relatively private, choosing to focus on honing his craft rather than chasing celebrity status. As of 2025, he remains unmarried and continues to prioritize meaningful projects over commercial fame. With a career spanning over 15 years, he has evolved from a teen heartthrob into a respected and mature actor. His latest works include “Ghost Doctor” (2022) and the sequel “Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938” (2023), both of which reinforced his versatility and staying power in the ever-evolving Korean entertainment landscape.
Hobbies
Playing the Piano – Kim Bum is known to play the piano during his downtime and has expressed interest in composing music someday.
Photography – He enjoys taking candid shots of nature and urban life, often using film cameras for a nostalgic touch.
Working Out – Fitness is a big part of his lifestyle, especially after overcoming health issues; he focuses on balance and strength training.
Watching Documentaries – He spends time watching history and crime documentaries, which he says help him understand new character roles.
Drawing and Sketching – Kim has mentioned that drawing helps him focus and relax, especially when preparing for emotionally heavy roles.
Interests
Psychology and Human Behavior – He often researches behavioral traits to add realism to his acting.
Film Production – Besides acting, Kim Bum is interested in directing and producing, aiming to create his own content in the future.
Traditional Korean Culture – He appreciates hanbok, traditional arts, and often participates in cultural events.
Spiritual Wellness – Kim practices meditation and is interested in mindfulness, often reflecting on life between projects.
Cooking Korean Food – He enjoys trying his hand at homemade Korean dishes like kimchi jjigae and bulgogi.
Facts
Birth Name is Kim Sang-beom – He uses “Kim Bum” as his stage name, which became iconic after Boys Over Flowers.
Diagnosed with Degenerative Arthritis – This condition affected his health around 2014, prompting a lifestyle transformation.
Fluent in Chinese – After acting in several Chinese dramas, Kim became conversational in Mandarin.
University-Trained Actor – He studied at Chung-Ang University’s Department of Film and Theater.
Was a Finalist in a Survival Audition Show – He gained industry attention as one of the top contestants in the 2006 Survival Star Audition.
Secrets
Was Almost Not Cast in Boys Over Flowers – He was a late addition to the cast and initially hesitated due to the character’s complexity.
Writes Emotional Diary Entries – He journals detailed reflections on his feelings while preparing for intense roles.
Considers Himself Socially Awkward – Despite his on-screen charm, Kim Bum describes himself as shy and quiet in real life.
Visits Set Locations Before Filming – He sometimes visits filming spots alone to absorb the atmosphere in advance.
Still Struggles with Stage Fright – Even after years in the spotlight, he admits to getting nervous during live interviews or fan meetings.
Funny Things
Mistaken for a High School Student at 30 – His youthful face has led to many misunderstandings, even among staff on set.
Once Brought the Wrong Script to Rehearsal – In a rush, he studied for the wrong episode and improvised the lines on set.
Known for Talking to Plants – He believes talking to his indoor plants helps them grow—something fans find adorable.
Did a Dramatic Monologue at a Convenience Store – As a joke, he once delivered a passionate scene in front of snacks and ramen.
Collects Socks with Cartoons – He has a soft spot for quirky socks with characters like Pororo and Spongebob.
Fears
Losing His Emotional Sensitivity – As an actor known for subtle emotion, he fears becoming desensitized or “robotic.”
Not Meeting Fan Expectations – He’s open about the pressure to grow and not disappoint long-time followers.
Being Typecast Forever – While grateful for Boys Over Flowers, he worries about being stuck in the same kind of role.
Physical Setbacks – After overcoming health issues, he’s cautious about overexerting himself physically.
Failing to Connect With a Character – He fears taking on a role that doesn’t resonate with him or feels artificial.
News
🎭 1. Reprised Role in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 (2023)
In 2023, Kim Bum returned to his role as Lee Rang in the sequel Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938, alongside Lee Dong Wook and new cast member Kim So Yeon. The fantasy drama continued to captivate audiences with its mythical storyline and strong performances.
🎉 2. Boys Over Flowers Reunion Sparks Nostalgia (2024)
On August 28, 2024, Kim Bum shared a photo on Instagram featuring himself with fellow Boys Over Flowers co-star Lee Min Ho, as well as actors Woo Do Hwan and Jung Il Woo. Captioned humorously as “F…4 No, sorry, I’ll stop,” the post delighted fans with a nostalgic nod to the iconic F4 group.
🎬 3. Special Cameo in Wedding Impossible Finale (2024)
Kim Bum made a surprise cameo appearance in the finale of the tvN rom-com Wedding Impossible, which aired on April 2, 2024. His unexpected role, alongside actors Lee Soo Hyuk and Ryu Kyung Soo, added star power to the series’ conclusion.
🎤 4. Fan Meeting in Indonesia with Special Performance (2023)
In September 2023, Kim Bum held a fan meeting titled “Between U and Me” at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski in Jakarta. During the event, he performed a special song that he had prepared specifically for his Indonesian fans, expressing his gratitude and affection.
🏆 5. Continued Popularity and Enduring Appeal
Despite the years since his breakout role in Boys Over Flowers, Kim Bum continues to captivate audiences with his performances and charm. His recent projects and public appearances have reaffirmed his status as a beloved figure in the Korean entertainment industry.
TV Drama
Movies
Music / OST
Kim Bum does not have an official music career in the traditional sense of being a singer or releasing studio albums. He is primarily known for his work as an actor and model, with international recognition stemming from his role as So Yi-jung in Boys Over Flowers (2009) and subsequent drama projects such as Padam Padam, Tale of the Nine Tailed, and Law School.
That said, he has occasionally participated in musical performances for fan meetings or drama OSTs. For example, during his 2023 fan meeting “Between U and Me” in Indonesia, Kim Bum performed a special song for his fans, a gesture that demonstrated his appreciation but was not part of an official music release. Despite his musical talents and strong fan interest, Kim Bum has not released solo music albums or singles under any label as of 2025.
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