Kang Tae Oh, born Kim Yoon-hwan, is a South Korean actor and singer who rose to international fame for his starring role in the hit television series Extraordinary Attorney Woo in 2022. 

Shortly after his breakout performance, the talented actor put his career on hold to fulfil his mandatory military service. 

During this time, fans eagerly awaited his return, wondering how he would navigate the challenges of serving his country while maintaining his passion for acting. Now that he has been discharged, this article sheds light on all of their curiosity.

Kang Te Oh enlisted in the military in 2022

On August 31, 2022, Kang announced at a fan meeting that he would enlist for his mandatory military service on September 20, 2022. He underwent basic military training at the 37th Infantry Division in Jeungpyeong-gun, North Chungcheong Province. 

After completing his basic training, he was an assistant training instructor with the same division. During his 18-month military service, he took on significant responsibilities. 

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He had the honour of reading the memorandum at last year’s memorial service on Hyeonchungil (Memorial Day in South Korea), paying respects to fallen soldiers. Additionally, he served as an assistant instructor at the Recruit Training Center.

Despite the demands of military life, he remained focused on his goal of returning to the entertainment industry upon completing his service. 

On March 19, 2024, after 18 months of active duty, Kang was finally discharged from the military, ready to embark on the next chapter of his acting career.

Kang Tae Oh, during his time in the military

Kang’s time in the military was a transformative experience that allowed him to reflect and grow both personally and professionally. 

Despite being at the peak of his career, he embraced the opportunity to serve his country, using this period to confront his flaws and cultivate positive habits.

The military provided a unique environment for self-improvement, away from the limelight of the entertainment industry.

Kang Tae Oh during his time in the military (Source: X)

Kang acknowledged that his time in service coincided with a significant transition in his life, marking the end of his twenties and the beginning of a new decade. This period allowed him to mature and gain valuable perspectives shaping his future endeavors.

Emerging from his military service with renewed purpose and discipline, Kang expressed his determination to impress audiences with exceptional projects moving forward. 

He recognized the unwavering support from his fans and expressed gratitude, promising to deliver compelling performances that will captivate and inspire audiences.

Kang Tae Oh enlisted after wrapping up ‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo’

Kang’s breakout role as the charming Lee Jun-ho in the wildly popular 2022 K-drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo catapulted him to stardom. 

The legal drama, which followed the story of an autistic rookie lawyer navigating the professional world, struck a chord with audiences worldwide and became a ratings juggernaut. 

As the lovable paralegal Lee Jun-ho, his chemistry with the lead actress, Park Eun-bin, was undeniable, and his portrayal of a supportive colleague endeared him to viewers.

The show’s success showed Kang’s acting prowess and ability to bring depth to his character.

However, despite the dizzying heights of his newfound stardom, Kang decided to put his blossoming career on hold to fulfill his mandatory military service obligations. 

Just months after wrapping up the immensely successful drama in August 2022, Kang enlisted in September of the same year.

His willingness to temporarily step away from the limelight at a time when his popularity was skyrocketing demonstrated his commitment to his responsibilities as a South Korean citizen. 

Kang Tae Oh’s upcoming drama ‘Potato Research Institute’

As Kang prepares for his much-anticipated return to the entertainment industry following his military discharge, fans eagerly await news of his next project. 

After his release, reports have emerged that the actor is positively considering starring in the upcoming romantic comedy-drama Potato Research Institute.

Set against the unconventional backdrop of a rural potato research institute, this series promises a refreshing and quirky premise.

He is in talks to play the lead role, portraying a character who, despite being blessed with striking good looks, is an outsider with an unexpectedly charming personality.

Kang Tae Oh’s career as an actor is gradually gaining traction over time (Source: My Music Taste)

If confirmed, Potato Research Institute would mark Kang’s first significant acting endeavor since his breakout success in the hit drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo. 

This project would allow him to showcase his versatility by taking on a lighthearted romantic lead, a departure from his previous role. Adding to the anticipation, Potato Research Institute boasts the creative team behind the critically acclaimed series Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung. 

Fans are excited to witness Kang’s return to the small screen in a role that combines his natural charm with the opportunity to explore a unique and quirky character. 

As the details of Potato Research Institute continue to unfold, anticipation builds for Kang’s next chapter in his acting career, where he can showcase his growth and versatility in a fresh and exciting project.

Kang Tae Oh’s other career works

While Kang’s breakout role in Extraordinary Attorney Woo propelled him to international stardom, his journey in the entertainment industry spans over a decade, with a diverse range of projects showcasing his versatility as an actor.

His acting debut came in 2013 with the web series After School: Lucky or Not, where he appeared alongside fellow members of the actor group 5urprise, formed by his then-agency Fantagio.

 He then transitioned to supporting roles in television dramas, such as the 2015 MBC weekend drama Flower of Queen.

Demonstrating his appeal beyond South Korea, Kang also starred in the lead role of the Korean-Vietnamese joint drama Forever Young, gaining recognition in Vietnam.

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In 2019, Kang took on a historical drama, The Tale of Nokdu, earning critical acclaim for his performance in the period piece. The same year, he made a special appearance in the MBC drama Love with Flaws and appeared in the Netflix original series My First First Love.

Kang’s versatility continued to shine in 2020 when he portrayed an art student in the JTBC drama Run On, showcasing his range in contemporary roles. 

That year also marked a significant career move as he joined the agency Man of Creation (M.O.C) after his previous contract expired.

In 2021, Kang appeared in the fantasy drama Doom at Your Service and the one-act drama Drama Special – The Effect of One Night on Farewell, further diversifying his portfolio.

Kang’s talent for memorable guest appearances was evident in 2022 when he made a special appearance in the drama Thirty-Nine, playing the role of a friend to one of the main characters.

Ewan McGregor is a famous Scottish actor who has captivated audiences with his versatile performances across various roles, including several portraying gay characters. 

This made some people wonder about his natural sexuality. In this article, we look at whether McGregor is gay. We also discuss his movie roles and real-life relationships today.

Ewan Mcgregor does not identify as gay

While McGregor has portrayed several LGBTIQ characters throughout his illustrious career, the actor himself does not identify as gay. He is known for maintaining a relatively private personal life, rarely delving into discussions about his sexuality or relationships. 

Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi (Source: National Today)

However, his marital status serves as a clear indication that he is straight — he has been married to two women so far. 

So, While his on-screen personas may have fueled speculation about his personal life, separating an actor’s roles from their real-life identities is essential. His dedication to his art should be celebrated rather than used as a basis for assumptions. 

Ewan McGregor has portrayed multiple gay characters over the years

Ewan McGregor has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to portraying diverse characters, including several prominent roles, throughout his career. 

One of McGregor’s most notable characters was Curt Wild in the 1998 film Velvet Goldmine, directed by Todd Haynes. 

In this cult classic, McGregor delivered a captivating performance as a fictionalized version of Iggy Pop, exploring themes of sexuality, identity, and the glam rock scene of the 1970s. 

Then, in 2009, he starred opposite Jim Carrey in the dark comedy I Love You Phillip Morris, playing the real-life character of Phillip Morris, a con man who fell in love with his cellmate. 

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His portrayal of Morris’s complex journey of self-discovery and his unwavering pursuit of love showcased his ability to bring depth and nuance to a character that could have easily been reduced to caricature.

More recently, in the 2021 limited series Halston, he took on the titular role of the iconic fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick, who was openly gay. 

His performance captured the designer’s flamboyant persona and his struggles with fame, addiction, and personal relationships, offering a poignant and honest depiction of a trailblazer in the fashion industry.

Additionally, McGregor also portrayed similar character Jerome in the 1996 film The Pillow Book, further demonstrating his versatility and commitment to representing diverse narratives on screen.

Ewan McGregor defended playing a gay character in ‘Halston’

McGregor’s decision to play the iconic fashion designer Halston, who was openly gay, in the Netflix series Halston sparked a discussion about casting and representation in the entertainment industry. 

While some argued that gay actors should play gay roles, he defended his choice to take on the part.

He acknowledged the concerns raised by actor Billy Porter, who had previously suggested that straight actors should stop playing gay characters, citing the limited opportunities for LGBTQ+ actors to portray their own lived experiences. 

McGregor expressed respect for Porter’s perspective, recognizing that he has not faced the same challenges or discrimination due to his sexuality.

However, he argued that Halston’s sexuality was not the series’ primary focus and that the role was more about portraying the designer’s broader life and career. 

He felt comfortable taking on the part because the character’s sexuality was just one aspect of his identity rather than the central narrative.

Ultimately, McGregor’s willingness to engage with the discussion and acknowledge different perspectives emphasizes the importance of considering the specific context of each role rather than adhering to rigid rules that may inadvertently limit artistic expression and representation.

Ewan McGregor got married in the late 90s

In the late 1990s, as McGregor’s career was taking off and he was gaining fame for his roles in films with gay representations, he made a significant personal decision that grounded him amidst the whirlwind of success and the temptations that accompany it.

During those early days of fame, he exuded a self-admitted, confident, almost cocky persona. However, this bravado was balanced by his decision to marry young and start a family.

Ewan McGregor with his daughter Clara McGregor (Source: People)

In 1995, he tied the knot with Eve Mavrakis, a French-Greek production designer he had met while working on a British TV legal drama. 

Just five months after the premiere of Trainspotting in 1996, McGregor and Mavrakis welcomed their first child, a daughter named Clara. He fondly recalls having Clara in his lap as a baby while promoting Trainspotting at the Cannes Film Festival.

This early commitment to building a family life alongside his burgeoning career highlights McGregor’s ability to prioritize and balance his personal and professional aspirations and set his gay rumors to rest.

Ewan McGregor is now married to his second wife

McGregor’s personal life took a significant turn in recent years, leading him to marry his second wife, Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Their relationship blossomed from an on-screen romance to a real-life love story.

In late 2016, McGregor and Winstead met on the set of the FX series Fargo, where they were cast as love interests during the show’s third season. 

At the time, both were married to their respective spouses – McGregor to his first wife, Mavrakis, and Winstead to her then-husband, Riley Stearns.

However, as their on-screen chemistry translated into a deep connection off-screen, their marriages eventually ended, paving the way for them to pursue a relationship together. 

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After nearly four years of dating, he and Winstead took a significant step in solidifying their commitment to one another.

In 2021, the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Laurie. This milestone began a new chapter in their lives as a family. In April 2022, McGregor and Winstead exchanged vows, officially becoming husband and wife the following year.

McGregor’s journey to finding love again with Winstead showcases human relationships’ complexities and unpredictable nature. While his first marriage played a significant role in his life and career, his connection with Winstead blossomed organically from their shared passion for their craft.

The decision to remarry and start a new family with Winstead reflects McGregor’s willingness to embrace change and his openness to new experiences, even in the later stages of his life and career. 

Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada has built an impressive career spanning over five decades, amassing over 140 acting credits in action films, dramas, and Hollywood blockbusters, along with numerous accolades. 

With recent high-profile appearances boosting his international visibility, the 63-year-old actor’s versatility and longevity have provided both critical and commercial success. 

Today, we examine Sanada’s extensive body of work and the sources fueling an estimated multi-million dollar net worth accrued over his prolific, shape-shifting career.

Hiroyuki Sanada’s net worth and early steps in Hollywood

Sanada has amassed an impressive net worth estimated to be around $10 million through his prolific acting career spanning over five decades. 

His journey to Hollywood and international stardom began with his critically acclaimed performances in Japanese films like The Twilight Samurai in the early 2000s.

A breakthrough came in 2003 when he portrayed the master swordsman Ujio opposite Tom Cruise in the blockbuster The Last Samurai. This high-profile role brought him global recognition and paved the way for more prominent parts in international productions. 

Hiroyuki Sanada performing martial arts in character (Source: Facebook)

He starred in films like The Promise, Rush Hour 3, Sunshine, and The City of Your Final Destination in the late 2000s. His versatility and dedication to his craft have allowed him to transition seamlessly between Japanese cinema and Hollywood. 

His net worth has been bolstered by lucrative roles in major franchises such as Lost, The Wolverine, Westworld, and Avengers: Endgame.

Beyond just acting, his contributions to promoting British culture through his performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company earned him an honorary MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2002, cementing his global reputation.

While his early steps in Hollywood were marked by supporting roles, he has gradually ascended to lead actor status. His ability to transcend cultural barriers has solidified his position as a bankable international star, reflected in his impressive $10 million net worth.

Hiroyuki Sanada initially started as a child actor

Sanada’s journey in the entertainment industry began at a remarkably young age when he was discovered as a child actor. 

Born in Tokyo, his natural talent and charisma caught the eye of an entertainer while he was playing with a friend, leading to his first foray into modeling for children’s magazines.

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At just five years old, Sanada joined the Himawari Theatre Group, kickstarting his acting career in 1966 with a role in the yakuza film Game of Chance, where he played the son of the lead character portrayed by the legendary Shinichi “Sonny” Chiba. 

However, upon entering high school, Sanada heeded Chiba’s advice and decided to prioritize his academic pursuits, temporarily withdrawing from performing arts activities. 

It wasn’t until 1978, after successfully auditioning for the movie Shogun’s Samurai, that he reignited his passion for acting and officially adopted the stage name Sanada, marking a pivotal turning point in his blossoming career.

Hiroyuki Sanada’s child acting days led him to Hong Kong action films

Sanada’s early days as a child actor paved the way for his eventual foray into the world of Hong Kong action cinema. His martial arts prowess, honed from years of dedicated training, proved to be a valuable asset that opened new doors in his burgeoning career.

In 1982, Sanada made his mark in the Hong Kong film industry by portraying the ninja Genbu in the action flick Ninja in the Dragon’s Den. This role not only showcased his physical abilities but also introduced him to a new audience beyond Japan. 

His talent and charisma caught the eye of renowned action stars, leading to collaborations with icons like Michelle Yeoh, with whom he co-starred in the 1986 film Royal Warriors.

Hiroyuki Sanada as a young actor (Source: Martial Arts in Cinema)

During his early years in Hong Kong, he was often credited under various anglicized names such as Henry Sanada, Harry Sanada, or Duke Sanada, a common practice for foreign actors at the time.

While conquering the action genre in Hong Kong, Sanada simultaneously established himself as a versatile character actor in his home country of Japan. In 1984, he delivered a memorable performance in the film Mahjong Hourouki.

Sanada’s acting prowess extended to the small screen as well. In 1997, he starred in the television drama A Story of Love, where he portrayed a wealthy yet lonely businessman. 

It not only showcased his range but also set the stage for a future collaboration with Matsushima in the 1998 mystery thriller Ring, where he played her estranged former husband with a sixth sense for detecting supernatural auras.

Hiroyuki Sanada’s latest projects

One of Sanada’s most notable recent endeavors is the FX limited series Shōgun, where he not only stars as the formidable Lord Toranaga but also serves as a producer. The series, which premiered in February 2024, has allowed Sanada to showcase his talent on a global scale.

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Similarly, in 2022, he had a major supporting role in the action-comedy Bullet Train, sharing the screen with Brad Pitt. 

The elaborate sets recreated for the film Bullet Train evoked a strong sense of nostalgia and homesickness for Sanada, who starred as The Elder in the action-comedy.

Having spent two decades living in Los Angeles, Sanada admitted that stepping onto these meticulously crafted sets immediately brought back memories of his time in Japan.

However, he has continued to portray characters based on his home country. For example, 2023 proved to be another noteworthy year for Sanada, as he portrayed Koji Shimazu, the manager of the Osaka Continental Hotel, in the highly anticipated John Wick: Chapter 4. 

Beyond his acting endeavors, Sanada has also lent his talents to commercial campaigns, most recently appearing in a multi-commercial campaign for the launch of the Mazda CX-90. 

Looking ahead, Sanada is set to reprise his role as the iconic Scorpion in the upcoming Mortal Kombat 2, a highly anticipated sequel to the 2021 reboot. 

This project not only demonstrates his commitment to portraying iconic characters but also highlights his enduring popularity in action and martial arts films.

So, from garnering praise for his roles in ongoing series like Shōgun to acting alongside high-profile actors like Reeves and Pitt, Sanada is still going strong in his decades-long career.