Gong Ji-cheol, known professionally as Gong Yoo, is a South Korean actor renowned for his roles in “Train to Busan” (2016), “Silenced” (2011), “Squid Game” (2021), and “The Age of Shadows” (2016).
Gong Yoo’s Profile
Full Name | Gong Ji-cheol |
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Professional Name | Gong Yoo |
Date of Birth | July 10, 1979 |
Age | 45 years old |
Hometown | Busan, Yeongnam, South Korea |
Nationality | South Korean |
Religion | Christian |
Father | Gong Won |
Mother | Yoo Myung-Joo |
Siblings | Gong Eun-Jung (Elder Sister) |
Education | Theater and Film at Kyung Hee University |
Career Start | 2000 (as a video jockey) |
Notable Works | “Train to Busan,” “Silenced,” “Squid Game,” “The Age of Shadows” |
Net Worth (2024) | $5 million |
Early Life and Education
Gong Yoo was born on July 10, 1979, making him 45 years old as of 2024. He grew up in a well-settled family in Busan, Yeongnam, South Korea. Holding South Korean nationality, Gong Yoo practices Christianity. He attended Dongin High School and later studied Theater and Film at Kyung Hee University.
Family
Gong Yoo’s father is Gong Won, and his mother is Yoo Myung-Joo. He is the second child in his family, with an elder sister named Gong Eun-Jung.
Career
Gong Yoo started his career as a video jockey on Mnet in 2000. He made his acting debut in the TV series “School 4” in 2001. Following various supporting roles in dramas and movies, he hosted the music program “Music Camp” in 2004. His first lead role came in 2005 in SBS’s “Hello My Teacher,” followed by the romance melodrama “One Fine Day” in 2006.
At the peak of his career, Gong Yoo enlisted in the Korean Armed Forces in 2008 due to mandatory military service. During his service, he performed front-line duties at the border and served in the PR unit of the army, where he hosted his own daily radio program at the Korean Forces Network. After completing his military duties, Gong Yoo’s film career surged with significant roles in “Silenced” (2011) and “The Suspect” (2013). In 2016, he achieved multiple hits with “Train to Busan,” “The Age of Shadows,” and the drama series “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.”
Net Worth
As of 2024, Gong Yoo’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million, amassed through his extensive career in television and film acting.