When it comes to luxury homes, stars of the screen certainly know what they want. Through social media, we've recently caught glimpses of the stunning interiors of some of Korea's biggest stars' pads.
We can safely say that from what we've seen, there are three key aspects to a luxury home that a K-Star wants. They are decorated flawlessly, often done on million-dollar budgets, and well-maintained. Polished exteriors are another key feature. The third aspect is location, with many of these superstar homes being found in Gangnam neighborhoods, Cheongdam and Apgujeong.
Where They Live
The top K-Stars tend to have homes in Seoul, and not just anywhere in the city, but in some of the chicest and most glamorous neighborhoods. They also own real estate overseas, which is, of course, useful for their jet-set lifestyles. Han Ye Seul bought a building in LA's K-Town, whereas Song Hye Hyo keeps an NYC condo just across from Central Park for the times she stays in the city.
It's safe to say that the district of Gangnam is home to many Korean actors, singers, and all-round superstars. It isn't hard to see why; this affluent area is a hub for global companies, such as Google and IBM. The neighborhoods are filled with luxury brands and boutiques, as well as salons, chic eateries, and famous restaurants like The Class.
"You're Beautiful" actor Jang Geun-seok chose Nonhyeon-dong for his villa, which is said to cost $4 million. Samseong-dong is another popular location within the district, which is where Lee Seung-gi lives in a luxurious brownstone. Other sought after areas include Apgujeong and Hannam-dong.
Korean Star Couples
K-Stars work hard and reap the benefits as well as giving back to their communities. One of the rewards is luxury properties. Topping the list in wealth and expensive homes are the power couples of Korea. One of those couples is Kim Tae Hee and Rain.
Around the time of their marriage, Kim Tae Hee owned several properties, each worth millions of dollars. They included a complex close to Gangnam Station, worth around $11 million, and a villa in Hannam-dong, worth around $6 million. At that time, Rain had an estate to match, worth just over $5 million, and an incredibly valuable complex worth over $20 million.
Another impressive celebrity couple is Kwon Sang Woo and Son Tae Young. The couple has a number of properties, including two buildings named after their son RookHee. Kwon Sang Woo has been involved in the design process and the construction of a building worth $22 million.
Real Estate Investment
The expensive properties owned by K-Stars go beyond a luxury home to live in or a place to stay when overseas. The properties, including complexes, villas, estates, and factories are a form of real estate investment.
Leading the way with investment is SM Entertainment CEO Lee Soo Man. He owns a complex in Los Angeles, and a grape field and manufacturing plant. Kwon Sang Woo bought a factory in Seongsu, which went up in value shortly afterward.
Han Ye Seul's K-Town building in LA was an investment designed for her family. Her parents have operated the restaurant in the building since 2013. Song Hye Kyo also took an interest in real estate to support her family, particularly her single mother. As a result, she owns three houses in Samseong, which are cumulatively worth more than $15 million.
Luxury Features
Each K-Star has their own taste when it comes to decor and choosing a building with a modern or European exterior style. As is true for all of us, their homes are a place for relaxation, entertainment, and some peace and quiet, but with a little something extra.
For Kim Hyun-joong, that's a property close to the Galleria in Apgujeong with significant outdoor space to take peaceful walks. Other homes are equipped with all the necessities and even more on top. Lee Seung-gi, known as Triple Threat because of his talents as a singer, actor, and host, has included a fitness center, golf range, AV room, and events hall in his home.
K-Stars also need to house their supercars, so Jang Geun-seok has a two-car garage, as well as the movie theater and cafe that make up his luxury villa. Han Ye Seul's apartment suite has a swimming pool and Italian designer stores inside the building.
Idols in Their Homes
If you've been wondering about your K-Star idols, how they spend their money, where they live, and what their homes look like, now you have your answers. It isn't surprising to discover that their homes are as beautiful as they are. They own million-dollar properties in the most affluent and exclusive areas of Seoul as well as abroad and have made investments for their families and for the future.
