Gong Ji Chul, better known by his stage name Gong Yoo, is a South Korean actor under Management SOOP Entertainment. He graduated with a B.A. in theater degree at Kyung Hee University. Gong Yoo started his show business career as a video jockey on Mnet in 2000 and debuted as an actor in the TV series "School 4" in 2001. Thereafter, Gong Yoo did many supporting roles in dramas and movies and hosted the music program "Music Camp" in 2004. Gong Yoo was then cast in MBC romantic comedy "Coffee Prince", which became his breakout role. The popularity of the drama solidified his status as a leading man and made him a Hallyu star.
Gong Yoo then enlisted the mandatory service on January 14, 2008, which ended on December 8, 2009. He did 8 months of frontline active service in Cheorwon and was transferred to the Defense Media Agency, where he served in the public relations department and hosted as a DJ for the army radio station.
Years active: 2001 – now