Steve Noh: That hot Prime Minister in Perfect Crown

Whoever said binge-watching dramas is a waste of time obviously hasn’t found the right dramas to watch. K-dramas, for example, aren’t just known for their overflowing plot twists. There are also plenty of lessons that we can learn from just by watching the series.

Superb storyline aside, we are of course naturally attracted to the cast — especially when there are hunks to fixate our eyes on and fantasise about. Speaking of swoon-worthy actors, there’s one particular K-drama actor that has caught our attention lately. He’s none other than Steve Noh Sang-hyun.

The 35-year-old South Korean actor has most recently swept us off our feet, starring in Disney+’s most-watched Perfect Crown. While IU and Byeon Woo-seok are the leading actress and actor of the drama, netizens couldn’t help but be mesmerised by the memorable performance of the second male lead, Steve. 

His portrayal of the Prime Minister sees him looking spiffy in suits, making it even harder for audiences not to hear their hearts thudding during his scenes. Want to know more about this scene stealer? You’ll have to keep reading. 

He spent most of his growing-up years overseas

Though he was born in South Korea, Steve spent a significant part of his growing-up years abroad in Vancouver, Canada. After his childhood years there, he moved to New York, United States, for high school before majoring in business at Babson College, one of the top-ranking universities in the United States. 

Following his graduation, he returned to South Korea to fulfil his mandatory military service, and eventually kickstarted his career in the modelling industry in 2013.

Play

A fan of Korean chess

During his youth, Steve picked up the art of Korean chess, or janggi, from his grandfather. His passion for the game runs so deep that he says he frequents local parks to observe and challenge the seniors at their boards. 

During one of these park matches with the elderly, he happened to meet the president of the Korea Chess Association. The pair squared off for a segment on South Korean television network JTBC’s programme Actors’ Association, prompting an onlooker to exclaim in disbelief, “Are you really an actor? You play well!”

Play

He’s a plant parent

His calm demeanor perfectly matches with his hobbies. In addition to his love for chess, Steve is also into plants. During a video interview with Harper’s BAZAAR Korea, he confessed his obsession with greenery, listing an extensive collection of plants that have been under his care. 

His obsession with his botanical babies is truly next-level. He even has a humidifier and runs a circulator specifically to keep them thriving. Now that’s a serious commitment! 

Steve loves comfortable clothes

While he may look absolutely dapper for his work, Steve’s personal style leans much more toward the relaxed side. During an appearance on Actors’ Association, the actor confessed his penchant for cosy attire, noting, “I prefer sweatpants or hoodies. Something that is comfortable.”

Play

He probably got his good looks from his parents

In reality show Hong Seok-cheon’s Jewel Box, hosts Hong and Ddoldol Kim asked Steve about his striking appearance. The actor then shared a little-known fact about his family. He said that his mum was Miss Korea. Now that explains why he’s such a looker!

Steve made his acting debut in Netflix’s Sense8

In 2015, Steve marked his acting debut, starring in American science fiction drama Sense8. He would then star in more dramas including Dragon Race (2019), Soundtrack (2023) and Pachinko (2024). 

Real-life Steve is actually quite the goofball

While most celebrities are under constant pressure to maintain a flawlessly polished image or risk the wrath of online critics, Steve isn’t afraid to flaunt his playful side on social media. One hilarious highlight? He repurposed a Louis Vuitton dust bag into a makeshift bib to enjoy his cake. 

He has a sweet tooth

Take a look at Steve’s Instagram feed, and you’ll discover a delightful little secret. Turns out, he’s quite the dessert fan. The actor has shared snaps of himself indulging in sugary goodness (from cakes to cookies), often paired with a grin of pure bliss.