Choi Si-won (Korean: 최시원; Hanja: 崔始源; born 7 April 1986[2][a]), known mononymously as Siwon, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, model, and actor known for his work as a member of South Korean boy group Super Junior. Choi was a special representative for UNICEF Korea from 2015 to 2019, before being chosen as an UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office ambassador in November 2019.[3]
Aside from being a member of Super Junior, Choi has also ventured into solo activities, mainly acting. He played lead roles in the Korean dramas Oh! My Lady (2010), Poseidon (2011), Revolutionary Love (2017), My Fellow Citizens! (2019), and Love Is for Suckers (2022) and had supporting roles in Athena: Goddess of War (2010), The King of Dramas (2012), She Was Pretty (2015), and Bloodhounds (2023). Choi has also participated in various Chinese language films such as Helios, To the Fore and Dragon Blade.
Born: 7 April 1986 (age 37 years), Jeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea
Parents: Choi Ki-ho, Byun Jae-jeong
Siblings: Choi Ji-won
Height: 1.83 m
Hangul: 최시원
Early Life:
Choi Siwon, born on April 7, 1987, in Seoul, South Korea, hails from a family with a notable background—his father being the former CEO of Boryung Medicine. Despite his family's affluent background, Choi embarked on his entertainment journey against his parents' initial approval.
Career Beginnings:
Scouted by SM Entertainment at 16, Choi auditioned for the Starlight Casting System without parental consent. Subsequently, he delved into comprehensive training in singing, acting, and dancing. Choi's initial ventures included a brief appearance in The Grace's Dana's music video while training as a solo singer in 2003. His acting debut came in the Hong Kong film "A Battle of Wits" in 2006, earning him praise from co-star Andy Lau.
Debut with Super Junior and Super Junior-M:
Choi's pivotal moment arrived when he debuted as part of the 12-member rotational project group, Super Junior 05, in 2005. The group evolved into Super Junior after the addition of the thirteenth member, Kyuhyun. Super Junior's global success surged with hits like "Sorry, Sorry."
In 2008, Choi joined Super Junior-M, a Mandopop subgroup, further expanding his influence in the Chinese music industry.
Solo Ventures:
Choi's solo career showcased his versatility. Noteworthy appearances include "Attack on the Pin-Up Boys" (2007), SBS' romantic comedy "Oh! My Lady," and the big-budget spy series "Athena: Goddess of War."
His 2015 projects, including "She Was Pretty" and participation in Hong Kong films, added to his acclaim. Choi's return in 2017 with "Revolutionary Love" marked his post-military comeback.
Recent Projects:
Choi's diverse roles continued with the crime comedy drama "My Fellow Citizens!" (2019) and appearances in the science fiction anthology series "SF8" (2020). Notably, his role in the TVING web series "Work Later, Drink Now" (2021) and the ENA romantic comedy series "Love Is for Suckers" (2022) highlighted his enduring popularity.
In 2023, Choi took on a supporting role in the Netflix original series "Bloodhounds."
Endorsements and Philanthropy:
Choi's influence extends beyond entertainment. He serves as a representative for Audi Korea and was chosen as the youngest Asian model by luxury brand Piaget in 2015. Notably, Choi actively supports UNICEF campaigns since 2010, holding the position of special representative for the South Korea committee.
In 2023, Choi was named the PR Ambassador of the 14th Gwangju Biennale, emphasizing his commitment to various causes.
Impact and Achievements:
Choi's impact on the entertainment industry is evident through accolades such as being listed in Forbes magazine's "30 Under 30 Asia" in 2016. He made history in 2008 by appearing on Chinese postage stamps with Super Junior-M, showcasing the group's international influence. Additionally, Choi's attendance at the Met Gala and his massive Twitter following underline his global standing.
A wax figure of Choi was unveiled at Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong in 2015, solidifying his status as a global icon.
Personal Life and Controversies:
Choi graduated from Apgu Jeong High School in 2006 and Inha University in 2012. Known for his devout Christian beliefs, Choi has expressed his post-career aspiration to become a missionary.
His military service, which began in 2015 and ended in 2017, was followed by a controversial incident involving a family dog that resulted in public backlash.
Choi Siwon's enduring success, philanthropy, and impactful career reflect a multifaceted entertainer and global influencer.
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