Who Is Song Joong Ki? A Brief Bio and Why His TV Shows Stand Out
Born on September 19, 1985, in Daejeon, South Korea, Song Joong Ki is now 40 years old and stands at 178 cm (5’10”) tall. He graduated with a BBA from Sungkyunkwan University and served his mandatory military service from 2013 to 2015. Song first gained fame as a short-track speed skater in his youth before transitioning to acting. His TV breakthrough came with historical and romantic roles, but he’s since evolved into action-oriented characters, earning awards like the Daesang at the Baeksang Arts Awards for Descendants of the Sun.
What makes his TV shows exceptional? Song’s boyish charm combined with emotional depth draws global audiences, with series like Vincenzo amassing over 38K IMDb ratings. In 2025, his projects continue to blend genres, appealing to fans of romance, fantasy, and revenge plots.
Early TV Shows: Building Stardom (2008-2011)
Song Joong Ki’s initial roles were supporting, showcasing his fresh appeal in melodramas and rom-coms.
1. My Precious You (2008)
- Role: Jang Jin-ho, a supportive friend
- Plot Summary: A family drama about love, betrayal, and reconciliation among siblings.
- Episodes: 54
- IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
- Streaming Availability: Viki or Kocowa (with subtitles).
- Why Watch?: His debut TV role; perfect for seeing his early innocence.
2. Triple (2009)
- Role: Ji Poong-ho, an aspiring figure skater
- Plot Summary: Follows three friends navigating careers in advertising and sports.
- Episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix in select regions.
- Why Watch?: Draws from his real skating background; light-hearted and motivational.
3. Will It Snow for Christmas? (2009)
- Role: Han Ji-wan (young), a tragic first love
- Plot Summary: A melodrama about rekindled romance amid family secrets.
- Episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
- Streaming Availability: Viki.
- Why Watch?: Emotional depth in a winter-themed story; early chemistry showcase.
4. Obstetrics and Gynecology Doctors (2010)
- Role: Ahn Kyung-woo, a dedicated resident
- Plot Summary: Medical drama exploring the lives of OB-GYN doctors.
- Episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Realistic portrayal of healthcare; his caring side shines.
5. Sungkyunkwan Scandal (2010)
- Role: Gu Yong-ha, a witty scholar
- Plot Summary: Joseon-era tale of a woman disguised as a man in a prestigious academy.
- Episodes: 20
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix worldwide.
- Why Watch?: Fan-favorite for humor and bromance; boosted his popularity.
6. Deep Rooted Tree (2011)
- Role: Lee Do (young), the future king
- Plot Summary: Historical thriller about the creation of Hangul alphabet amid murders.
- Episodes: 24
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Streaming Availability: Viki.
- Why Watch?: Intense historical drama; his portrayal of royalty is compelling.
Breakthrough and Global Hits: Post-Military Era (2012-2019)
After enlistment, Song returned with lead roles that solidified his Hallyu status.
7. The Innocent Man (2012)
- Role: Kang Ma-ru, a vengeful medical student
- Plot Summary: Revenge story of betrayal and redemption.
- Episodes: 20
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Dark and twisty; his first anti-hero role.
8. Descendants of the Sun (2016)
- Role: Yoo Si-jin, a special forces captain
- Plot Summary: Romance between a soldier and doctor in a war-torn country.
- Episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Global phenomenon; iconic chemistry with Song Hye-kyo.
9. Arthdal Chronicles (2019)
- Role: Eun-seom / Saya, twin warriors
- Plot Summary: Fantasy epic in an ancient civilization.
- Episodes: 18 (Season 1)
- IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Ambitious world-building; dual roles showcase versatility.
Recent Masterpieces: Thriller and Cameos (2021-2025)
Song’s latest works blend action, comedy, and emotion, with 2025 updates.
10. Vincenzo (2021)
- Role: Vincenzo Cassano, a mafia lawyer
- Plot Summary: Italian-Korean consigliere fights corruption in Korea.
- Episodes: 20
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Witty and action-packed; one of his highest-rated.
11. Reborn Rich (2022)
- Role: Yoon Hyun-woo / Jin Do-joon, a reincarnated employee
- Plot Summary: Time-travel revenge in a chaebol family.
- Episodes: 16
- IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
- Streaming Availability: Viki.
- Why Watch?: Clever plot twists; explores corporate intrigue.
12. Queen of Tears (2024) – Cameo
- Role: Vincenzo Cassano (reprise)
- Plot Summary: Marriage crisis of a chaebol couple.
- Episodes: 16 (Cameo in Ep. 8)
- IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
- Streaming Availability: Netflix.
- Why Watch?: Fun crossover; adds thrill to the romance.
13. My Youth (2025)
- Role: Sunwoo Hae, a reflective lead
- Plot Summary: Coming-of-age story about dreams and regrets.
- Episodes: 12
- IMDb Rating: Early buzz at 8.0/10
- Streaming Availability: JTBC/Netflix (ongoing).
- Why Watch?: 2025’s fresh hit; introspective and relatable.
14. Romantics Anonymous (2025) – Guest
- Role: Guest appearance
- Plot Summary: Japanese drama remake about social anxiety and love.
- Episodes: 8 (Guest in select eps)
- IMDb Rating: N/A (new)
- Streaming Availability: Upcoming on platforms.
- Why Watch?: Cross-cultural; brief but impactful role.
Evolution of Song Joong Ki in TV Shows
From youthful supporting roles in Sungkyunkwan Scandal to commanding leads in Vincenzo, Song’s TV evolution reflects his growth from rom-com heartthrob to multifaceted star. His height of 178 cm enhances his on-screen presence, especially in action scenes. In 2025, My Youth marks a return to personal stories, potentially earning more awards.
Where to Watch Song Joong Ki TV Shows in 2025
- Netflix: Descendants of the Sun, Vincenzo, Arthdal Chronicles, Queen of Tears, My Youth.
- Viki: The Innocent Man, Reborn Rich, older titles.
- Kocowa/Prime Video: Variety like Running Man episodes featuring him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Song Joong Ki TV Shows
How many TV shows has Song Joong Ki been in?
Over 15 dramas, including cameos, as of 2025.
What is Song Joong Ki’s height?
He is 178 cm (5’10”) tall.
What’s his best TV show?
Vincenzo tops lists with an 8.4 IMDb rating, followed by Descendants of the Sun.
For more on his movies or bio, check our related guides. What’s your favorite Song Joong Ki show? Comment below!