Hollywood is discovering the appeal of kdrama actors, their talent, dedication and the buying power of their enthusiastic fan bases. Gong Yoo is the latest actor to discuss following in the Hollywood footsteps of Bae Doona, Lee Byung Hun and Rain.
Bae Doona appeared in the sci-fi film "Cloud Atlas" and Lee Byung Hun starred in such Hollywood blockbusters as "Red 2" and "G.I. Joe: Retaliation." Rain, who acted in the Hollywood films "Speed Racer" and "Ninja Assassins," will star opposite Bruce Willis in a new film, "The Prince."
During a recent interview, Gong Yoo said that while he was filming his first action film, "The Suspect," in Puerto Rico, the production company asked him about making a Hollywood debut.
"I told them I would go," said Gong Yoo. "I think that some discussion has been going on between the agencies, but nothing has been decided yet."
Gong Yoo was surprised by how many fans waited at the Puerto Rican filming site and that they had seen him in the drama "Coffee Prince" and the film "The Crucible."
"I heard that they watched all of my dramas and films, and even the staff was surprised by the fans' welcome," he said.
No surprise there. Kdrama talent crosses more borders every day.
Ha Ji Won, star of "The Empress," has already made Hollywood plans. She has signed on with The United Talent Agency, the Hollywood agency that represents Johnny Depp, Ewan McGregor, James McAvoy, and Channing Tatum. Considering her career as a female action star, it makes sense that Hollywood would want to use her talents and she wants to do the kind of roles usually given to Angelina Jolie.
"I would like to do more action films," said Ha Ji Won.
Lee Min Ho has also been approached by Hollywood.
When he was filming "City Hunter," American producer Terence Chang flew to Korea to meet him. Chang had worked with actor Jung Woo Sung on the film "The Killer."
"Lee Min Ho looked even better in person and he is an actor who can challenge himself endlessly," said Chang.
"I felt very fortunate and grateful that such a famous producer came to Korea to meet me," said Lee Min Ho. "I will continue to work hard and prepare myself in foreign languages to succeed abroad."
He continues to work on his English and is even more popular thanks to "The Heirs."
Who will be the next kdrama star to get a love call from Hollywood? Let us know what you think.