Korean entertainment has taken over the global stage, with K-pop idols and K-drama stars gaining massive fanbases from Seoul to San Francisco. While we often admire their on-screen charisma, dance moves, and vocals, many fans are pleasantly surprised to discover that some Korean celebrities speak perfect—or near-native—English.
Whether they grew up abroad, studied internationally, or simply worked hard to master the language, these stars impress not only with their talent but also with their bilingual skills. From flawless interviews to ad-libbed movie lines, here are Korean celebrities you didn’t know spoke such perfect English.
1. RM (BTS)
Let’s start with one of the most recognized multilingual stars in the world: BTS’s RM (real name Kim Nam-joon). As the leader of BTS, RM has become the group’s unofficial spokesperson during international interviews, award show speeches, and press conferences.
Why his English is so good: He learned English by watching Friends, and his self-taught journey is legendary in the BTS fandom.
2. Lee Byung-hun
Veteran actor Lee Byung-hun has appeared in Hollywood blockbusters like G.I. Joe and Terminator Genisys, and there’s a reason he fits in seamlessly—his English is fluent, natural, and confident.
Why you didn’t expect it: He’s often cast in Korean-language films, but behind the scenes, he has a strong command of English from working in Hollywood for over a decade.
3. Ahn Hyo-seop
Ahn Hyo-seop, the breakout star of Business Proposal and Dr. Romantic 3, speaks English like a native—and that’s because he practically is. Born in South Korea but raised in Canada, Hyo-seop moved back to pursue a career in entertainment.
Why his English surprises fans: His image is typically soft-spoken and introverted, but once he switches to English, he exudes confidence and charm.
4. Rosé (BLACKPINK)
BLACKPINK’s Rosé is known for her unique vocals, but she’s also one of the most articulate English speakers in K-pop. Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, English is her first language.
Why it’s impressive: Her fluency brings warmth and humor to global interviews and makes her relatable to international fans.
5. Ok Taecyeon (2PM)
Taecyeon, the actor and member of 2PM, moved to the U.S. as a child and attended school in Massachusetts before returning to Korea to train under JYP Entertainment. He even went through the American college application process before choosing to debut.
Fun fact: He speaks English with a natural American accent and once volunteered as a translator on We Got Married.
6. Claudia Kim (Kim Soo-hyun)
Actress Claudia Kim, also known as Kim Soo-hyun (not to be confused with the male actor), is well-known to Marvel fans as Dr. Helen Cho in Avengers: Age of Ultron. She studied at Ewha Womans University but speaks perfect English due to her international schooling and Hollywood experience.
Why it stands out: Her English is elegant and expressive, and she’s often cast in global productions because of it.
7. Jay Park
Rapper, singer, and entrepreneur Jay Park was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, before moving to Korea to debut with 2PM. Though he eventually left the group, Jay built a successful solo career—and his English skills played a huge role in connecting with fans globally.
Why it matters: He seamlessly switches between English and Korean in songs, interviews, and business.
8. Krystal Jung (f(x))
Krystal, born in California, grew up speaking English before debuting as a member of f(x). Her American upbringing shows in her relaxed and natural speaking style.
Why fans love it: Her fluency gives her an edge in fashion and beauty campaigns targeting international markets.
9. Stephanie Lee
Model-turned-actress Stephanie Lee has worked extensively in both Korea and the United States. Raised in the U.S., she speaks flawless English and has modeled for global campaigns.
Despite her bilingual advantage, she’s still climbing the ranks in Korean TV, but her acting chops and language skills make her one to watch.
10. Park Min-young
While Park Min-young isn’t a native English speaker, many fans are surprised at how fluent she sounds in interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. She reportedly studied hard to improve her English—and it shows.
She has held full conversations with foreign media and even did lines in English in some of her drama roles!
Final Thoughts: English Skills Open Global Doors
With the global rise of Hallyu (the Korean Wave), English fluency has become a key asset for Korean celebrities looking to connect with fans worldwide, attend international events, or star in global productions. Whether they were raised abroad or worked hard to become bilingual, these stars show that language can be a bridge—not just between cultures, but between artists and fans.
So the next time you’re watching a K-pop interview or a behind-the-scenes K-drama clip, don’t be surprised if your favorite Korean star starts speaking in fluent, confident English—they’ve been preparing for the global spotlight all along.