John Cho Biography 2025: Height, Age, Wife, Children, Net Worth & Career Facts
John Cho is a renowned Korean-American actor, best known for his dynamic performances in both television and film. Rising to international fame with roles in the “Harold & Kumar” series and the “Star Trek” reboot films, Cho has become a prominent figure in Hollywood, celebrated for breaking stereotypes and paving the way for Asian-American representation. Based in Los Angeles, his versatile career spans over two decades, making him one of the most respected actors of his generation.

Quick Facts
Full Name | John Cho |
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Profession / Occupation | Actor, Producer |
Birth Date | June 16, 1972 |
Age | 52 (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Seoul, South Korea |
Nationality | American |
Famous For | “Harold & Kumar” films, “Star Trek” series, “Searching” |
Known For | Groundbreaking Asian-American roles in Hollywood |
Ethnicity | Korean |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Height & Weight | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm), 75 kg (165 lbs) |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Education | University of California, Berkeley (BA in English Literature) |
Religion | Christian |
Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Kerri Higuchi |
Relationship | N/A |
Children | 2 |
Relatives | N/A |
Hobbies | Music, Guitar, Reading |
Employer/Organization | Various (Film & TV Studios) |
Years Active | 1997–present |
Net Worth (Estimated) | $16 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life & Education
John Cho was born on June 16, 1972, in Seoul, South Korea. He immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age, settling in Los Angeles, California. Raised in a culturally rich environment, Cho attended Herbert Hoover High School in Glendale before pursuing higher education at the University of California, Berkeley. There, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature, discovering his passion for the performing arts through university theater productions.
Career Journey
John Cho’s journey in Hollywood is marked by perseverance and groundbreaking achievements. He began his career in the late 1990s, taking on minor roles in television and independent films.
Early Career
Cho’s first notable appearance was in the cult classic “American Pie” (1999), where his role as “MILF Guy #2” became unexpectedly iconic. He continued to secure supporting roles in films and TV shows, gradually building recognition for his comedic timing and on-screen presence.
Breakthrough & Mainstream Success
His breakthrough came with the lead role of Harold Lee in the “Harold & Kumar” comedy franchise, starting with “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004). The series’ success established Cho as a leading man and a trailblazer for Asian-American actors in Hollywood.
In 2009, Cho was cast as Hikaru Sulu in J.J. Abrams’ “Star Trek” reboot, reprising the role in subsequent sequels. His performance received critical acclaim and introduced him to a global audience.
Recent Work & Current Projects
Cho continued to diversify his roles, starring in the critically acclaimed thriller “Searching” (2018) and the Netflix series “Cowboy Bebop” (2021). He has also voiced characters in animated series and lent his talents to independent films, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor.
As of 2025, John Cho remains active in both film and television, with several projects in development and continued advocacy for greater diversity in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
John Cho married actress and director Kerri Higuchi in 2006. The couple has two children and maintains a relatively private family life. Outside of acting, Cho enjoys playing the guitar, reading, and spending time with his family. He is also involved in community initiatives supporting Asian-American representation and youth arts education.
Awards & Achievements
- 2017: Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Male Lead (“Columbus”)
- 2018: Unforgettable Award for Actor in Film (“Searching”)
- 2019: Gold List Award for Best Actor (“Searching”)
- Multiple Asian Excellence Awards nominations
- Consistently recognized for advocacy and representation in Hollywood
Physical Statistics
Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
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Weight | 75 kg (165 lbs) |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Build | Average |
Quotes
- “I feel a responsibility to be visible, to be present, and to say, ‘Yes, we are here.'”
- “I never thought I’d be in a position to inspire others, but I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
- “Representation matters, not just for me, but for the next generation.”
Controversies
John Cho has maintained a largely controversy-free career, known for his professionalism and positive public image. He occasionally addresses industry issues such as typecasting and diversity, but has not been involved in any major scandals.
Favorites
- Favorite Movie: “The Godfather”
- Favorite Actor: Cary Grant
- Favorite Food: Korean BBQ
- Favorite Book: “Norwegian Wood” by Haruki Murakami
- Favorite Music: Classic Rock
- Favorite Hobby: Playing Guitar
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, John Cho’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $16 million. His earnings primarily come from acting roles in film and television, voice-over work, and occasional producing credits. According to industry benchmarks, Cho’s salary per major film role ranges from $500,000 to $2 million, with additional income from endorsements and guest appearances.
Interesting Facts
- John Cho is the first Asian-American actor to headline a mainstream Hollywood thriller (“Searching”).
- He is an accomplished guitarist and has performed with several bands.
- Cho immigrated to the U.S. at the age of six and learned English as a second language.
- He is an outspoken advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
- John Cho has made guest appearances on popular TV shows like “How I Met Your Mother” and “The Mindy Project.”
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
- How tall is John Cho? John Cho stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
- Is John Cho married? Yes, John Cho is married to actress Kerri Higuchi since 2006.
- What is John Cho best known for? He is best known for his roles in the “Harold & Kumar” films, “Star Trek” series, and “Searching.”
- How many children does John Cho have? John Cho has two children with his wife, Kerri Higuchi.
- What is John Cho’s net worth in 2025? His estimated net worth is around $16 million.
- Which university did John Cho attend? He attended the University of California, Berkeley.
Conclusion
John Cho’s career is a testament to talent, perseverance, and the power of representation in Hollywood. From his early days as an immigrant to becoming a leading actor and advocate, Cho continues to inspire audiences worldwide. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with friends and fellow fans!
Sources:
IMDb,
Wikipedia,
The Hollywood Reporter,
Forbes