[Exclusive Interview] Adam Strandt, British Actor and Model in South Korea Shares Industry Insights

Photo Cr. Adam Strandt 

British actor and model Adam Strandt is building something remarkable in Asia's competitive entertainment landscape. From his base in Seoul, Strandt has become one of the most recognizable Western faces in Korean commercial advertising, lending his versatile presence to campaigns for industry giants including Samsung, LG, Lotte, Subway, and Burger King.

But Strandt's reach extends far beyond the advertising world. His collaborative work spans music videos with K-pop superstars IU and Seventeen, Korean tourism campaigns that showcase the country to international audiences, or spilling coffee on the Yoona of Girls Generation in Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, he has an expanding portfolio of film and drama projects across Korean and Southeast Asian markets. Operating as an independent talent in a market traditionally dominated by major agencies, he has carved out a unique niche that few foreign performers manage to sustain.

What sets Strandt apart isn't just his ability to adapt to different cultural contexts, and versatility in roles, but his understanding of how to maintain authenticity while working across diverse Asian entertainment markets. As he continues expanding his presence throughout Southeast Asia, taking on increasingly ambitious film and commercial projects, Strandt offers a rare insider's perspective on what it truly takes for Western talent to not just survive, but thrive in Asia's dynamic entertainment ecosystem.

In this exclusive conversation, Strandt shares the strategies, challenges, and cultural insights that have shaped his unconventional path to success across multiple Asian markets.

What initially drew you to South Korea, and how did you make the transition from the UK to Seoul's entertainment industry?

I was first drawn to South Korea out of curiosity—I wanted to experience life in a place that felt very different from where I grew up in England. Once I arrived, I quickly became fascinated by the energy of Seoul and the creativity in its entertainment scene. The transition wasn’t overnight; I started by learning how things worked locally, meeting people, and slowly stepping into opportunities that came my way.

How did you break into the Korean drama and commercial scene as a foreign actor? What were your first few projects like?

It started with modelling, I used to do that in the UK when I was younger, but then that naturally transitioned into screenwork. My entry was fairly humble. I began with smaller roles in commercials and supporting parts in dramas. I think those first experiences taught me the rhythm of Korean sets and gave me the confidence to keep pursuing bigger opportunities.

What's been the most challenging aspect of working as an expat actor in Korea's highly competitive entertainment market?

Competition is high across the board, and as a foreign actor, the roles available can be limited and quite specific. Sometimes you’re navigating language barriers or expectations that don’t exist back home. The challenge is finding ways to stand out while still respecting the cultural framework of the industry.

Can you describe a moment when cultural differences on set led to either a funny misunderstanding or a valuable learning experience?

Sometimes it’s small things—like how you address people on set, when to speak up with ideas, or just a tiny language misunderstanding that changes the content or context of everything. I’ve had a few awkward moments, but they usually end in laughter and a better understanding of how things work here. Everyone is always very accommodating and understanding of the possibilities of cultural misunderstandings.

How has international interest in Korean content affected opportunities for foreign actors like yourself?

It’s been huge. The global popularity of K-dramas and K-pop means productions are increasingly aware of international audiences. That creates more room for stories that include foreign characters, which in turn opens the door for actors like me. It’s a ripple effect that benefits everyone involved.

Which of your Korean drama or commercial projects are you most proud of, and why?

There’s a drama that hasn’t come out yet but hopefully when it does it will include a cool action-packed sequence that I’m involved in. That’s not something I usually do, so the training and filming of it was quite unique. I’m very excited to see that one on screen.

Have you had any memorable experiences working with major K-drama stars or well-known Korean directors?

I don’t particularly have my finger on the pulse when it comes to kpop, so I quite massively underestimated the sheer scale and gravity of being on stage with BTS at a music award shows. There’s a song that instantly takes me back there and gives me goosebumps remembering the adrenaline of it all.

How has living in Korea changed you personally, both as an actor and as a person?

Living in Korea has definitely made me more adaptable. As an actor, I’ve learned to adjust quickly to different styles of working and directing. Personally, I’ve become more open-minded and patient. It’s impossible not to grow when you immerse yourself in a culture so different from your own. Living and working in a new culture forces you to grow, both on set and in daily life.

What advice would you give to other foreign actors considering making the move to work in Korea's entertainment industry?

Be prepared for persistence. It takes time to understand the industry and build trust. Learn the basics of the language, observe how things are done, and don’t be afraid to start small. Every project is a stepping stone.

What are your goals for the next few years - do you see yourself continuing to build your career primarily in Korea, or are you looking to bridge Korean and international markets?

I’d like to do both. Korea is an amazing base for me, and I want to continue growing here, but I also see opportunities to connect Korean work with international projects. Bridging those markets feels like a natural next step, and it’s something I’m excited about pursuing. It has already started to happen actually and I’ve completed some projects that I’m very excited to come out.

Follow Adam Strandt 

https://www.instagram.com/adam.seoul