Song Kang-Ho Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday Facts
Discover Song Kang-Ho net worth, relationships, age/birthdate and birthday — a deep profile of the celebrated South Korean actor’s wealth and personal life.
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Song Kang-Ho Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday
Song Kang-Ho is a South Korean actor recognized for his versatile performances and global influence — celebrated for films like Parasite and Broker, and widely regarded as one of the most significant actors in Korean cinema.
Introduction
Song Kang-ho (born January 17, 1967) is a towering figure in modern Korean and global cinema. With an estimated net worth of around US$20 million, he has built a lasting legacy through powerful performances, critical acclaim, and consistent box-office and awards success. Married and father of two, Song Kang-Ho maintains a relatively private personal life — yet his family remains a pillar of support for him amid international stardom.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Song Kang-ho |
| Age/Birthdate | January 17, 1967 |
| Birthday | January 17 |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Profession | Actor |
| Estimated Net Worth | US$20 million |
| Relationship Status | Married to Hwang Jang-sook |
| Known For | Iconic roles in Parasite, Memories of Murder, The Host, Broker; acclaimed as one of the greatest actors of his generation |
From Local Stages to Global Spotlight: The Rise of Song Kang-Ho
Song Kang-Ho’s journey began far from the glitz of international cinema. Born in the province of Gimhae in South Gyeongsang, South Korea, he first nurtured his acting ambition in theatre. Rather than following a traditional acting school route, he joined social theatre groups and eventually became part of the improvisational-focused company led by director Kee Kuk-seo.
His earliest on-screen role came in the 1996 film The Day a Pig Fell into the Well — initially as an extra. But it was a few years later that his star began to rise. His performance in Green Fish (1997) and especially the gangster role in No. 3 (1997) captured attention. In No. 3, his portrayal triggered a wave of imitation among fans — a testament to his presence on screen.
The turning point came at the dawn of the 2000s. With lead roles in Joint Security Area, The Foul King, and other diverse films, Song established himself as a versatile actor capable of handling thrillers, comedies and dramas alike.
Defining moments in Song Kang-Ho’s journey include:
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Transitioning from theatre to film after debuting as an extra in The Day a Pig Fell into the Well.
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Breakthrough roles in Green Fish and No. 3 that showcased his raw talent and screen presence.
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First lead roles around 2000 that diversified his portfolio across genres and solidified his status in Korean cinema.
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International acclaim through collaborations with acclaimed directors like Bong Joon-ho and Kim Jee-woon, leading to global recognition.
The Core Pillars of Song Kang-Ho’s Wealth
The core pillars of Song Kang-Ho’s wealth include:
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Film and Acting Fees: Decades of leading and supporting roles in high-grossing, critically acclaimed movies have been the backbone of his earnings. His involvement in films such as Parasite and Broker significantly elevated his financial standing.
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Endorsements and Brand Relationships: While not as publicly tabulated as some Western actors, Song’s fame and prestige likely contribute to brand deals and endorsements. Some sources list endorsements among his income streams.
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Residuals, Royalties & Long-Term Value of Iconic Films: Given the continued popularity of his films worldwide, residual earnings and long-term value from streaming, distribution, and re-releases may contribute significantly, though detailed public data is limited.
Relationships & Private Life
Song Kang-Ho maintains a relatively private personal life, especially compared with many global celebrities.
Key insights into Song Kang-Ho’s relationships and personal life:
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He has been married to Hwang Jang-sook since 1995.
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The couple has two children. Their son, Song Jun‑pyeong, once pursued a career as a footballer. Their daughter, named Ju-yeon, leads a low-profile life.
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Despite global fame, Song has often credited his family with providing emotional stability — something he values deeply given the demands of his career.
He rarely draws public attention outside of his work, preserving a modest, grounded personal life away from the spotlight.
Beyond the Screen: Lifestyle, Interests & Assets
Beyond career success, Song Kang-Ho leads a lifestyle that reflects both passion and purpose, including:
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A reputation for humility and quiet discretion regarding personal assets and lifestyle — he is not known for ostentatious displays despite his wealth.
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A deep commitment to his craft and art — often returning to theatre roots and choosing diverse, meaningful roles rather than chasing commercial trends.
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A legacy-building mindset: His participation in socially and culturally resonant films has helped shape both his personal brand and the broader global recognition of Korean cinema.
Public records or verified reports about lavish real estate, luxury cars, or flashy lifestyle purchases are minimal — consistent with his understated public persona.
Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis
Song Kang-Ho’s net worth is most commonly estimated at US$20 million, with figures deriving from major public celebrity-wealth trackers.
| Category | Estimated Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Film and Acting Income | Core contributor (undisclosed breakdown) | Film credits, long career span |
| Endorsements / Brand Deals | Part of wealth base (implicit) | Industry and media commentary |
| Residuals / Long-Term Royalties | Likely contributes but not publicly broken out | Derived from enduring popularity of films |
Because public records of his earnings are limited, much of the breakdown remains an educated estimate — yet the consistency of the $20 million figure across multiple sources suggests it is a conservative but reliable benchmark.
Public Image, Legacy & Influence
Song Kang-Ho is widely viewed as more than just a “movie star.” He is regarded as a cultural icon whose career helped transform South Korean cinema into a global phenomenon.
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His collaborations with top-tier directors and willingness to explore diverse roles forged a path for many younger actors and filmmakers — demonstrating that versatility and authenticity can triumph over typecasting.
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With frequent recognition (awards, festival honors, critical praise), he’s considered not just commercially successful but deeply respected for craft and artistry.
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For many international audiences, his name is synonymous with the rise of Korean cinema — making him a bridge between South Korea’s film industry and global filmgoers.
Conclusion
Song Kang-Ho’s journey — from humble theatre beginnings to global cinema icon — is a testament to talent, perseverance, and artistic integrity. Born on January 17, 1967, his birthday marks not just the birth of an actor, but the beginning of a legacy that reshaped an entire industry. With an estimated net worth of US$20 million, a stable family life with Hwang Jang-sook and their two children, and a body of work that spans decades and genres, Song Kang-Ho remains an enduring symbol of excellence.
His story reminds us that true success in art — and in life — often comes not through glamour or spectacle, but through dedication to craft, respect for one's roots, and the ability to evolve while staying grounded.
