How does Crash Landing on You K-drama star Son Ye-jin spend her millions? The Korean Wave pioneer recently bought a US$14.4 million Gangnam property
With her Hollywood debut set for 2022 in The Cross and plenty of beauty endorsement deals under her belt, the Hallyu star’s net worth is estimated at US$20 million – and she spends it on prime real estate and art
K-drama actress Son Ye-jin of Crash Landing on You fame recently became the owner of a US$14.4-million commercial building located in the upscale Gangnam district of Seoul, known for its prime location and great foot traffic.
According to Singaporean newspaper Today, the six-storey property houses beauty-related enterprises, such as plastic surgery clinics and cosmetics stores. Although over 20 years old, the structure is said to be well-maintained, and the rent is reportedly an estimated US$39,650 a month, with a deposit fee of US$441,000.
Son apparently bought the building last July, paying around US$4 million in cash while taking out a loan for the remaining US$10.4 million. She finished paying off the mortgage in September.
The actress, however, is no stranger to real estate investments. In fact, in 2015, she acquired a US$8.2-million building located in Mapo-gu district, and sold it three years later for around US$12 million. Who knew that Korea’s melodrama queen is also a pro at property investments?
Son, who has maintained a steady acting career since her debut in 1999, reportedly has a net worth of US$20 million, thanks in large part to her top billing in films and Korean dramas. A pioneer star during the early days of the Korean Wave, Son seems on track to take her career even further, and is currently set to make her Hollywood debut with The Cross premiering in 2022.
Son also makes bank through endorsement deals, with skincare brands such as Neuramis, Vanav and Manyo Factory, favouring her chic image and ageless beauty. The actress was also recently appointed as the first muse of ready-to-wear clothing line Bride and You.
Aside from her property investments, Son is also keen on collecting tasteful art pieces and world-class furnishings. The actress welcomed the cast of variety show Master in the House into her home for an episode that aired a couple of years ago, and while at first glance her house seemed sparsely decorated with only the essentials, a closer look revealed expensive designer pieces curated from all over the world.
A video review by home and interiors expert YouTube channel 100 Home Studio details the key pieces in Son’s residence: a couch from Italy, the famous egg chair by a Danish designer, a crystal and glass oval table by a Spanish architect, antique cupboards and tables from France, and a designer timepiece by a Spanish brand, among others. A rough estimate of the furniture in her living room, dining room and kitchen comes to over US$185,000.
The actress also spends a great deal on travelling as a way to de-stress. She’s visited scenic destinations across the globe, from Milan to Hawaii to the Philippines, and wishes to visit Africa next. Unfortunately, Son has halted her filming schedule and even fan meets overseas because of Covid-19. In a Forbes report, she mentioned travel as what she misses the most during the coronavirus, especially visiting friends who live abroad.