According to The Korea TimesKim earned 5 billion won (US$3.4 million) for his latest 16-episode drama Queen of Tears, translating to 312.5 million won (US$214,377) per episode. His salary accounted for a substantial portion of the drama’s 40-billion-won production budget.

For comparison, other veteran South Korean actors earn significantly less per episode. According to the South China Morning PostHyun Bin earns US$84,000 per episode, followed by So Ji Sub and Jo In Sung at US$67,000, Lee Min Ho at US$62,000, and Lee Seung Gi at US$59,000.

Citing N Entertainments, India Times revealed that Park has overtaken Kim as the highest-paid actor in Korea. He reportedly earned 500 million won per episode for his 2024 drama “Doctor Slump,” amounting to 8 billion won (US$5.5 million) for the 16-episode series.

It is reported that Park has also negotiated an even higher fee for his upcoming project “Buried Hearts,” although the exact amount has not been disclosed.

At 34, Park debuted as a member of the K-pop group ZE:A in 2010 before transitioning into acting. He gained recognition with his role in the 2013 drama “The Heirs” and rose to prominence with hit dramas such as “Strong Girl Bong Soon,” “Suits,” and “Our Blooming Youth.”

South Korean actor Park Hyung Sik. Photo from Park’s Instagram

Kim, 37, made his television debut in 2007 and gained international fame through dramas such as “Dream High,” “The Moon Embracing the Sun,” “My Love from the Star,” “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” and “Queen of Tears.”

However, his reputation has suffered following allegations about his past relationship with Kim Sae Ron, who passed away at 25. On March 10, the YouTube channel Hoverlab, also known as Garo Sero Institute, aired an interview with a woman claiming to be Kim Sae Ron’s aunt. She alleged that Kim had been romantically involved with Kim Sae Ron since she was 15.

Kim Sae Ron’s family further claimed the two were in a six-year relationship and that Kim later pressured her to repay 700 million won (US$481,626), a financial burden they say contributed to her struggles before her death.

The controversy has already taken a toll on Kim’s career, leading to a decline in his public image, loss of brand deals, and social media followers.