The recent success of the Republican-era drama Overdo, starring Zhang Linghe, has reignited fans’ love for one of Chinese dramas’ most iconic aesthetics the military uniforms and elegant styling of the Republican era.

Set against the backdrop of old Shanghai, the drama has captivated viewers with its emotional storytelling and Zhang Linghe’s commanding performance as a young military commander. His striking uniformed look has also sparked discussions online, with fans revisiting other actors who have delivered unforgettable Republican-era visuals.

Here's a look at 10 Chinese actors whose military-uniform looks have become fan favorites in Republican-era dramas.

1. William Chan

Topping the list is William Chan, often hailed by fans as the ultimate ‘military uniform heartthrob.’ His portrayal of Zhang Qishan in The Mystic Nine remains one of the most iconic Republican-era performances in Chinese television. Wearing a long military coat with an icy, authoritative presence, William Chan perfectly embodied a powerful commander whose charisma and commanding aura left a lasting impression on audiences.

2. Wallace Chung

Few Republican-era roles have stood the test of time like Wallace Chung’s performance in Too Late to Say I Love You. Even more than a decade after the drama’s release, his portrayal of the devoted yet ruthless warlord Murong Feng continues to go viral online. Dressed in the signature blue military uniform, Wallace Chung combined elegance, emotional depth, and quiet authority, creating one of the genre’s defining characters.

3. Chen Xiao

Coming in third is Chen Xiao, whose refined, classic features make him look as though he stepped straight out of a vintage Shanghai photograph. In The Little Nyonya, he balanced the stern image of a military officer with a scholarly charm and gentlemanly elegance, offering a refreshing take on the Republican-era leading man.

4. Zhang Linghe

Rising star Zhang Linghe claims fourth place thanks to his portrayal of Murong Qingyi in Overdo. His tall frame and sharp features allow him to effortlessly pull off everything from dark military uniforms to luxurious ceremonial attire embroidered with gold. While comparisons with veteran actors are inevitable, Zhang Linghe’s screen presence has firmly established him as one of the standout faces of the new generation.

5. Ding Yuxi

Ding Yuxi earned widespread praise for his first venture into the Republican-era mystery genre with Archives: The Nanyang Mystery. Playing secret agent Zhang Haixia, the actor impressed viewers with his slicked-back hairstyle, composed demeanor, and tailored dark military uniform, which highlighted both his polished physique and quietly commanding presence.

6. Chen Xingxu

In Fall in Love, Chen Xingxu plays the clever and charismatic Tan Xuanlin. His broad shoulders, masculine appearance, and confident aura have made him one of the most beloved Republican-era male leads in recent years.

7. Xu Kai

Seventh on the list is Xu Kai, who portrayed the rebellious Gu Yanzhen in Arsenal Military Academy. Unlike the disciplined officers often seen in the genre, Gu Yanzhen exudes a carefree, mischievous charm. Xu Kai’s modern undercut hairstyle paired with his tilted military cap created one of the drama’s most memorable visuals.

8. Ren Jialun

Ren Jialun captivated audiences as intelligence officer Ye Chong in Autumn Cicada. His fitted military uniforms accented with leather belts perfectly complemented his restrained, cold, and disciplined image. Ren’s sharp gaze and understated performance brought depth to the role of a covert operative navigating the turmoil of wartime.

9. Zhang Ruoyun

Zhang Ruoyun left a lasting impression in Wu Xin: The Monster Killer as the obsessive antagonist Zhang Xiantong. His military cape, peaked cap, and piercing gaze helped create one of the most iconic Republican-era villain looks in Chinese television.

10. Shawn Dou

Rounding out the list is Shawn Dou, who starred as Xiao Beichen in Love in Flames of War. Whenever he appeared in military uniform, Shawn Dou combined an impeccable physique with a commanding yet deeply romantic presence. His portrayal balanced the arrogance of a wealthy young master with the calm determination of a capable military leader, making him an ideal Republican-era hero.

Republican-era dramas continue to captivate audiences not only through stories of war, romance, and political intrigue but also through their distinctive fashion. Tailored military uniforms, long overcoats, leather accessories, and vintage hairstyles have become defining visual elements of the genre, allowing actors to showcase both elegance and authority.

With Overdo fueling renewed interest in Republican-era dramas, fans are once again celebrating the actors whose unforgettable military-uniform looks have become iconic across Chinese television.

Sources: K14