Song Kang was born on April 23, 1994, in Suwon, South Korea. Growing up in a supportive family, Song showed an early interest in the arts, particularly acting. His fascination with performance arts led him to pursue a degree in film arts at Konkuk University, one of South Korea’s prestigious institutions for creative disciplines.
Early Career Struggles
Song Kang’s journey to stardom was not without its challenges. Like many aspiring actors, he faced the harsh realities of the entertainment industry. Audition after audition, Song encountered rejections that tested his resilience and determination. Despite the setbacks, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of acting, continually honing his craft and waiting for his breakthrough moment.
First Steps into Acting
Song Kang made his official acting debut in 2017 with a supporting role in the television drama “The Liar and His Lover.” Although his role was minor, it marked his entry into the competitive world of K-dramas. The same year, he appeared in the web series “Hello Spring,” where his performance began to garner attention.
His first significant break came with the romantic fantasy drama “Man in the Kitchen” (2017–2018), where he played the role of Kim Woo-joo. This drama allowed him to showcase his acting skills more prominently, and his charming on-screen presence began to attract a fanbase.
Rise to Prominence
In 2018, Song Kang joined the cast of the highly anticipated music show “Inkigayo” as a host. This exposure was pivotal in increasing his visibility and popularity among a broader audience. His role as an MC showcased his charisma and helped solidify his status as a rising star.
The following year, he landed a role in the drama “When the Devil Calls Your Name” (2019), where he played a supporting character. Though not the lead, his performance was well-received, and it added to his growing reputation as a talented actor.
Breakthrough with “Love Alarm”
Song Kang’s major breakthrough came in 2019 when he was cast as the lead in the Netflix original series “Love Alarm.” Based on a popular webtoon, the series revolves around a mobile app that alerts users if someone within a 10-meter radius has romantic feelings for them. Song Kang played the role of Hwang Sun-oh, a handsome and popular high school student caught in a love triangle.
“Love Alarm” was a massive hit both domestically and internationally, catapulting Song Kang to new heights of fame. His portrayal of Sun-oh earned him widespread acclaim and a massive fan following. The success of the series led to a second season, further cementing his status as a leading actor in the industry.
Continued Success and Versatility
In 2020, Song Kang continued to expand his acting repertoire by taking on diverse roles. He starred in the drama “Sweet Home,” another Netflix original based on a webtoon. In “Sweet Home,” Song Kang played Cha Hyun-soo, a troubled teenager who moves into a new apartment building just as a mysterious phenomenon turns humans into monsters. The series was a commercial success, praised for its gripping storyline and impressive visual effects. Song Kang’s performance was lauded for its depth and emotional range, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Further Projects and Recognition
Following the success of “Sweet Home,” Song Kang starred in the romantic drama “Navillera” (2021), where he played the role of a young ballet dancer. The series, based on a webtoon, told the touching story of a 70-year-old man who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer and his friendship with a young, struggling ballet dancer. Song Kang’s performance was highly praised for its sensitivity and nuance, earning him further critical acclaim.
In the same year, he returned to the role of Hwang Sun-oh in “Love Alarm” Season 2. The series continued to receive positive responses, and Song Kang’s portrayal of Sun-oh remained a fan favorite.
Recent Works and Future Endeavors
In 2022, Song Kang took on a lead role in the drama “Nevertheless,” based on another popular webtoon. He played Park Jae-eon, a charming yet commitment-phobic art student. The series explored modern relationships and the complexities of love, with Song Kang’s performance receiving praise for its authenticity and relatability.
Song Kang’s ability to embody diverse characters has made him one of the most sought-after actors in the industry. His recent completion of “Sweet Home” Season 2 has fans eagerly anticipating his next projects. With his talent and dedication, Song Kang is poised to continue his upward trajectory in the entertainment world.
Song Kang’s journey from a determined young actor facing numerous rejections to a celebrated star of hit Netflix series like “Love Alarm” and “Sweet Home” is a testament to his perseverance and talent. His versatility in portraying a wide range of characters, coupled with his undeniable screen presence, has solidified his place in the hearts of fans worldwide. As he continues to take on challenging and diverse roles, Song Kang’s star is only expected to shine brighter in the years to come.