Social media has recently exploded over a series of photos showing Song Joong-ki in a hanbok with heavy makeup a look many fans initially found hard to accept. However, the truth behind this surprising image is revealed: it comes from the 2016 film Wolf Boy, a milestone in Song Joong-ki’s career that propelled him to stardom.
In the scene that went viral again, Song Joong-ki plays an innocent “wolf boy” almost entirely unaware of the human world. His character is dressed in a brightly colored hanbok and heavily made up by his crush, creating a combination of bewildered and humorous expressions. The stark contrast between his real-life visuals and this “disastrous” film look left fans laughing, shocked, and agreeing that this was a moment Song Joong Ki would likely never want to revisit.
In Wolf Boy, Song Joong-ki plays Chul Soo a boy abandoned and isolated from society, unable to speak or express emotions, acting purely on instinct. The role demands primarily physical acting: every glance, gesture, posture, and subtle reflex conveys the character’s wild yet vulnerable nature. Despite minimal dialogue, Song Joong-ki successfully conveys the loneliness and longing for love of the “wolf boy” through nuanced expressions.
The role has been praised by critics and audiences as one of Song Joong-ki’s most outstanding performances. He completely sheds his usual charming image, appearing rugged, disheveled, and emotionally intense. This dedication proved that Song Joong-ki is not only a handsome face but also a skilled actor capable of carrying a psychologically demanding role.
Wolf Boy became a hit at the Korean box office, attracting millions of viewers and sparking a sensation across Asia. Chul Soo’s “wolf boy” character remains iconic, cementing Song Joong-ki’s status as a top A-list actor. Following the film, he was in high demand for major projects and became recognized as a “guarantee of emotion” for romantic and tragic films.
Song Joong-ki has long been considered a Korean screen icon with his youthful and charming looks. From Sungkyunkwan Scandal and Wolf Boy to the peak of Descendants of the Sun, he has consistently captivated audiences with both his appearance and charm.
However, recent years have brought challenges. His last four projects fell short of expectations in ratings and impact, raising questions about his script choices and career direction. From a box office guarantee, Song Joong-ki now faces scrutiny about whether he can regain his former glory.
Amid this career slowdown, Song Joong-ki has embraced a new chapter in his personal life. He married a foreign wife and has a child, presenting a quieter, family-oriented image. Many fans believe he is now prioritizing his personal life while taking a more measured pace in his career.
Sources: K14