Lee Jong-suk, born on September 14, 1989, in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, is a distinguished actor and model renowned for his versatile performances across television dramas and films. He began his career as the youngest male model to participate in Seoul Fashion Week at the age of 15. Transitioning into acting, Lee has delivered compelling portrayals that resonate with authenticity and depth, captivating audiences worldwide. Below is an in-depth analysis of his most notable works, offering insights into their narratives, thematic elements, and Lee’s impactful performances.
Best TV Shows
1. “Pinocchio” (2014-2015)
Pinocchio is a heartfelt South Korean drama that takes viewers on an emotional journey through the lives of aspiring reporters as they confront truth in a world riddled with lies and corruption. The series stars Lee Jong-suk as Choi Dal-po and Park Shin-hye as Choi In-ha, two characters with deeply intertwined fates.
Plot Overview
Choi Dal-po, born Ki Ha-myung, is a gifted young man with a photographic memory and a tragic past. After a devastating fire orchestrated by a corrupt media report destroys his family, Dal-po assumes a new identity, living a modest life with his adoptive family. Choi In-ha, a spirited and honest woman, has “Pinocchio Syndrome,” a fictional condition causing her to hiccup whenever she lies.
Fate brings Dal-po and In-ha together, and they embark on careers in journalism. As they navigate the intense and competitive world of news reporting, they confront hidden truths, personal traumas, and systemic corruption. Dal-po’s mission to expose the media’s role in his family’s downfall becomes the series’ emotional cornerstone, offering a compelling exploration of justice and redemption.
Key Features
- Genre: Romance, Mystery, Drama
- Episodes: 20
- Airing Dates: November 12, 2014 – January 15, 2015
- Network: SBS (South Korean Broadcasting System)
Main Cast
- Lee Jong-suk as Choi Dal-po / Ki Ha-myung
- Park Shin-hye as Choi In-ha
- Kim Young-kwang as Seo Bum-jo
- Lee Yu-bi as Yoon Yoo-rae
Why It’s Loved
- Unique Concept: The Pinocchio Syndrome adds a creative twist to the story, symbolizing the value of truth in a society plagued by deceit.
- Chemistry of Leads: Lee Jong-suk and Park Shin-hye deliver captivating performances, blending romance with profound emotional depth.
- Social Commentary: The drama critiques journalistic ethics and the media’s influence on public perception.
- Rich Character Development: Each character grows meaningfully, adding layers to the narrative.
Why Watch?
Pinocchio masterfully balances romance, revenge, and redemption. Lee Jong-suk’s portrayal of Choi Dal-po’s struggle for justice against the very media that wronged him is compelling and inspiring. Park Shin-hye’s spirited Choi In-ha adds charm and emotional resonance, creating a dynamic duo that brings authenticity and heart to the story.
The drama is a must-watch for fans who appreciate emotionally charged narratives with thoughtful commentary on social issues, making Pinocchio a timeless gem in the world of K-dramas.
2. I Hear Your Voice (2013)
I Can Hear Your Voice (너의 목소리가 들려) is a 2013 South Korean television series that masterfully blends legal drama, romance, and supernatural elements to explore profound themes of justice, truth, and personal growth.
Plot Overview
The narrative centers on Park Soo-ha (Lee Jong-suk), a high school student endowed with the extraordinary ability to read people’s thoughts by looking into their eyes a power he acquired after witnessing his father’s murder a decade earlier. The perpetrator, Min Joon-gook (Jung Woong-in), was convicted largely due to the courageous testimony of Jang Hye-sung (Lee Bo-young), then a high school student. Now a jaded public defender, Hye-sung’s path crosses with Soo-ha’s once more as they team up to navigate complex legal battles and confront lingering threats from their past.
Key Features
- Genre: Legal Drama, Romance, Fantasy
- Episodes: 18
- Airing Dates: June 5, 2013 – August 1, 2013
- Network: SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System)
Main Cast
- Lee Bo-young as Jang Hye-sung
- Lee Jong-suk as Park Soo-ha
- Yoon Sang-hyun as Cha Gwan-woo
- Lee Da-hee as Seo Do-yeon
Why It’s Loved
- Innovative Premise: The integration of supernatural abilities within a legal drama framework offers a fresh and engaging narrative.
- Compelling Character Dynamics: The evolving relationships, particularly between Soo-ha and Hye-sung, provide depth and emotional resonance.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The series delves into moral complexities, questioning the nature of justice and the ethical responsibilities of those who uphold it.
- Stellar Performances: The cast delivers nuanced portrayals, bringing authenticity to their characters’ struggles and growth.
Why Watch?
I Can Hear Your Voice stands out for its unique blend of genres, offering a narrative that is both thrilling and heartfelt. The series not only entertains but also prompts reflection on deeper societal issues, making it a must-watch for those seeking a drama that combines emotional depth with thought-provoking content.
3. W: Two Worlds
W (더블유), also known as W – Two Worlds, is a 2016 South Korean television series that intricately blends romance, fantasy, and suspense. The narrative explores the convergence of two distinct realms: the real world and the universe within a webtoon. The series stars Lee Jong-suk as Kang Chul and Han Hyo-joo as Oh Yeon-joo, delivering compelling performances that anchor this unique storyline.
Plot Overview
Oh Yeon-joo is a second-year cardiothoracic surgery resident at Myungsei Hospital. Her father, Oh Seong-moo, is the creator of the popular webtoon “W.” One day, Seong-moo mysteriously disappears, and Yeon-joo visits his studio to investigate. There, she is inexplicably pulled into the webtoon world of “W,” where she encounters Kang Chul, the story’s protagonist.
Kang Chul is a former Olympic gold medalist in shooting and a self-made millionaire. His life took a tragic turn when his family was brutally murdered, and he was wrongfully accused of the crime. After being acquitted, Kang Chul dedicates his life to finding the real killer and seeks justice through his broadcasting company, also named “W.”
As Yeon-joo becomes entangled in the webtoon world, she discovers that her actions can alter the course of the story. She saves Kang Chul’s life, and their fates become intertwined. Kang Chul, initially unaware of his existence as a webtoon character, begins to question the nature of his reality. He eventually learns the truth about his world and seeks to understand his purpose.
The series delves into the complexities of two worlds colliding, exploring themes of existentialism, free will, and the blurred lines between fiction and reality. As Kang Chul and Yeon-joo navigate their intertwined destinies, they face formidable challenges, including a mysterious antagonist threatening both their worlds.
Key Features
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Suspense
- Episodes: 16
- Airing Dates: July 20, 2016 – September 14, 2016
- Network: MBC (Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation)
Main Cast
- Lee Jong-suk as Kang Chul
- Han Hyo-joo as Oh Yeon-joo
- Kim Eui-sung as Oh Seong-moo
- Lee Tae-hwan as Seo Do-yoon
- Jung Yoo-jin as Yoon So-hee
Why It’s Loved
- Innovative Narrative: The series presents a fresh and engaging storyline that blurs the boundaries between fiction and reality, captivating viewers with its originality.
- Strong Chemistry: The lead actors deliver compelling performances, with palpable chemistry that enhances the romantic and dramatic elements of the series.
- Visual Excellence: High-quality production values, including impressive special effects and cinematography, bring the dual worlds to life.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The drama explores deep philosophical questions about existence, destiny, and the power of storytelling.
Why Watch?
W – Two Worlds offers a unique viewing experience that combines romance, suspense, and fantasy. Its inventive plot and strong performances make it a standout series that challenges conventional storytelling. For viewers seeking a drama that pushes the boundaries of narrative structure while delivering emotional depth, W is a must-watch.
4. “While You Were Sleeping” (2017)
While You Were Sleeping (당신이 잠든 사이에) is a 2017 South Korean television series that seamlessly blends romance, fantasy, legal drama, and thriller elements. The series stars Bae Suzy as Nam Hong-joo, Lee Jong-suk as Jung Jae-chan, and Jung Hae-in as Han Woo-tak. It aired on SBS from September 27 to November 16, 2017, and is available on streaming platforms such as Netflix, Viki, KOCOWA, and Viu.
Plot Overview
Nam Hong-joo is a young woman who possesses the ability to foresee future events through her dreams. These premonitions range from mundane daily occurrences to significant life-altering incidents, often involving people around her. Despite her efforts, she finds herself unable to alter the outcomes she envisions, leading to a sense of helplessness.
Jung Jae-chan is a rookie prosecutor with a strong sense of justice. He crosses paths with Hong-joo and becomes entangled in her world of prophetic dreams. After experiencing a premonition himself—one that foresees Hong-joo being framed for a crime by the corrupt lawyer Lee Yoo-beom, who was once his tutor—Jae-chan takes action to prevent the vision from becoming reality.
Han Woo-tak is a young police officer who, after being saved by Jae-chan, also begins to experience prophetic dreams. The trio discovers that their lives are interconnected through these visions, and they collaborate to prevent the ominous events they foresee from occurring. Their collective efforts often pit them against Lee Yoo-beom, who manipulates the law for his own gain.
As they work together, Hong-joo and Jae-chan develop a deepening romantic relationship, while Woo-tak harbors unspoken feelings for Hong-joo, adding complexity to their interactions. The series delves into themes of fate, free will, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the legal profession.
Key Features
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Legal Drama, Thriller
- Episodes: 16
- Airing Dates: September 27, 2017 – November 16, 2017
- Network: SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System)
Main Cast
- Bae Suzy as Nam Hong-joo
- Lee Jong-suk as Jung Jae-chan
- Jung Hae-in as Han Woo-tak
- Lee Sang-yeob as Lee Yoo-beom
Why It’s Loved
- Engaging Narrative: The series combines supernatural elements with legal drama, creating a unique and captivating storyline.
- Character Chemistry: The interactions among the main characters are dynamic and heartfelt, with the cast delivering compelling performances.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: The drama explores complex issues such as destiny versus free will and the ethical challenges within the legal system.
- High Production Quality: With meticulous direction and cinematography, the series offers a visually appealing experience.
Why Watch?
While You Were Sleeping stands out for its innovative blend of genres and its exploration of profound themes through a supernatural lens. The series not only provides suspense and romance but also encourages reflection on the impact of one’s choices and the interconnectedness of people’s lives. For viewers seeking a drama that offers both emotional depth and intellectual engagement, While You Were Sleeping is a compelling choice.
5. Doctor Stranger” (2014)
Doctor Stranger (닥터 이방인) is a 2014 South Korean television series that blends medical drama, romance, and political intrigue. The series stars Lee Jong-suk as Park Hoon, Jin Se-yeon as Song Jae-hee, Park Hae-jin as Han Jae-joon, and Kang So-ra as Oh Soo-hyun. It aired on SBS from May 5 to July 8, 2014, comprising 20 episodes.
Plot Overview
As a child, Park Hoon and his father, Park Cheol—a renowned South Korean cardiothoracic surgeon—are sent to North Korea to perform a critical heart surgery on a high-profile patient. Following the operation, they are denied permission to return to South Korea, effectively becoming prisoners in the North. In North Korea, Park Hoon is trained by his father to become a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon. He falls in love with Song Jae-hee, a fellow South Korean abductee. Tragedy strikes when Park Cheol is executed, and Park Hoon and Jae-hee attempt a perilous escape to South Korea. During the escape, they are separated, and Park Hoon arrives in South Korea alone, believing Jae-hee to be dead.
In South Korea, Park Hoon begins working at Myungwoo University Hospital, renowned for its cardiothoracic department. There, he encounters Han Jae-joon, a Harvard-educated surgeon harboring ambitions of becoming the hospital’s chief, and Oh Soo-hyun, the hospital chairman’s daughter and a fellow doctor. Park Hoon’s unorthodox methods and North Korean background make him an outsider, leading to professional rivalries and personal conflicts.
Park Hoon is shocked to meet Han Seung-hee, an anesthesiologist who bears an uncanny resemblance to Jae-hee but claims not to know him. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a complex conspiracy involving political machinations and personal vendettas. Seung-hee’s true identity and motives become central to the unfolding drama, intertwining with Park Hoon’s quest to reunite with his lost love and find his place in a divided world.
Key Features
- Genre: Medical, Romance, Political Thriller
- Episodes: 20
- Airing Dates: May 5, 2014 – July 8, 2014
- Network: SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System)
Main Cast
- Lee Jong-suk as Park Hoon
- Jin Se-yeon as Song Jae-hee / Han Seung-hee
- Park Hae-jin as Han Jae-joon
- Kang So-ra as Oh Soo-hyun
Why It’s Loved
- Engaging Storyline: The series offers a unique blend of medical drama and political intrigue, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Complex Characters: Each character is well-developed, with intricate backstories and motivations that add depth to the narrative.
- Emotional Depth: The portrayal of love, loss, and the quest for identity resonates with audiences, providing a rich emotional experience.
- High Production Quality: The series features impressive medical sequences and action scenes, enhancing its overall appeal.
Why Watch?
Doctor Stranger stands out for its compelling fusion of genres, offering a narrative that is both thrilling and heartfelt. The series not only entertains but also prompts reflection on themes of loyalty, identity, and the human spirit’s resilience. For viewers seeking a drama that combines intense action with emotional storytelling, Doctor Stranger is a must-watch.
6. “Romance Is a Bonus Book” (2019)
Romance Is a Bonus Book (로맨스는 별책부록) is a 2019 South Korean television series that intertwines themes of love, personal growth, and the intricacies of the publishing world. The series stars Lee Na-young as Kang Dan-i and Lee Jong-suk as Cha Eun-ho, delivering heartfelt performances that anchor this engaging narrative.
Plot Overview
Kang Dan-i, once a successful advertising copywriter, steps away from her career to support her husband’s ambitions and care for their child. Following a divorce, she faces the challenges of re-entering the workforce after a significant hiatus. Despite her impressive resume, she encounters ageism and skepticism about her prolonged absence, making it difficult to secure employment.
Desperate to rebuild her life, Dan-i conceals her qualifications and applies for an entry-level position at Gyeoroo Publishing, where her longtime friend, Cha Eun-ho, serves as the youngest editor-in-chief. Unaware of her true identity initially, Eun-ho is surprised to find Dan-i working at the company. As they collaborate, their relationship evolves, blurring the lines between friendship and romance.
The series delves into the dynamics of the publishing industry, highlighting the passion and challenges faced by those dedicated to bringing stories to life. It also explores themes of second chances, self-discovery, and the societal pressures that influence personal and professional decisions.
Key Features
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
- Episodes: 16
- Airing Dates: January 26, 2019 – March 17, 2019
- Network: tvN
Main Cast
- Lee Na-young as Kang Dan-i
- Lee Jong-suk as Cha Eun-ho
- Jung Eugene as Song Hae-rin
- Wi Ha-joon as Ji Seo-joon
Why It’s Loved
- Authentic Portrayal of Real-Life Challenges: The series addresses issues such as career interruptions, societal expectations, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment, resonating with viewers facing similar struggles.
- Chemistry Between Leads: Lee Na-young and Lee Jong-suk share a natural and compelling on-screen rapport, bringing depth to their characters’ evolving relationship.
- Insight into the Publishing World: The drama offers a behind-the-scenes look at the literary industry, appealing to book enthusiasts and shedding light on the complexities of publishing.
- Supporting Characters: A well-rounded ensemble cast adds richness to the narrative, each contributing unique perspectives and story arcs.
Why Watch?
Romance Is a Bonus Book stands out for its mature storytelling and relatable themes. It balances humor and heartfelt moments, providing a nuanced depiction of life’s second chances and the courage it takes to start anew. For viewers seeking a romantic drama that offers both emotional depth and an inspiring journey of self-discovery, this series is a must-watch.
The series is available for streaming on platforms such as Netflix
7. Big Mouth (2022)
Big Mouth (빅마우스) is a 2022 South Korean television series that intricately weaves elements of crime, legal drama, and thriller genres. The series stars Lee Jong-suk as Park Chang-ho and Im Yoon-ah as Ko Mi-ho, delivering compelling performances that anchor this intense narrative.
Plot Overview
Park Chang-ho, colloquially known as “Big Mouth” due to his grandiose speech and unfulfilled promises, is a struggling lawyer with a mere 10% success rate in court. Despite his aspirations, his career stagnates, leading to financial strain and personal disappointment. His wife, Ko Mi-ho, a dedicated nurse with a bold personality, has been his steadfast supporter, both emotionally and financially, throughout his tumultuous journey.
Their lives take a drastic turn when Chang-ho is unwittingly entangled in a high-profile murder case. Evidence surfaces that falsely implicates him as “Big Mouse,” a notorious and elusive con artist feared in the criminal underworld. This case thrusts Chang-ho into the perilous confines of Gucheon Prison, where he must navigate a treacherous environment filled with dangerous inmates and corrupt officials.
Inside the prison, Chang-ho grapples with his new identity, facing constant threats from those who believe he is the infamous swindler. Simultaneously, Mi-ho embarks on a relentless quest to uncover the truth and exonerate her husband. Her investigation leads her into a labyrinth of political corruption and powerful adversaries, including Choi Do-ha, the ambitious mayor of Gucheon, whose public persona masks a web of deceit.
As the narrative unfolds, Chang-ho and Mi-ho confront formidable challenges that test their resilience and moral fortitude. The series delves into themes of justice, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones, all set against a backdrop of suspense and intrigue.
Key Features
- Genre: Crime, Legal Drama, Thriller
- Episodes: 16
- Airing Dates: July 29, 2022 – September 17, 2022
- Network: MBC (Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation)
Main Cast
- Lee Jong-suk as Park Chang-ho
- Im Yoon-ah as Ko Mi-ho
- Kim Joo-hun as Choi Do-ha
Why It’s Loved
- Intricate Plot: The series offers a complex narrative filled with twists and turns that keep viewers engaged and guessing.
- Character Depth: Well-developed characters with rich backstories provide emotional resonance and authenticity.
- Social Commentary: The drama critiques systemic corruption and explores the moral dilemmas faced by individuals within flawed institutions.
- High Production Quality: Cinematic visuals and meticulous attention to detail enhance the storytelling experience.
Why Watch?
Big Mouth stands out for its compelling fusion of crime and legal drama, offering a narrative that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The series not only entertains but also prompts reflection on themes of identity, justice, and the pervasive influence of corruption. For viewers seeking a drama that combines intense action with profound storytelling, Big Mouth is a must-watch.
The series is available for streaming on platforms such as Disney+ in selected regions.
Best Movies
1. “V.I.P.” (2017)
V.I.P. (브이아이피) is a 2017 South Korean crime-action thriller directed by Park Hoon-jung. The film features a notable ensemble cast, including Jang Dong-gun, Kim Myung-min, Park Hee-soon, and Lee Jong-suk.
Plot Summary
The narrative centers on Kim Gwang-il (Lee Jong-suk), the son of a high-ranking North Korean official, who is suspected of committing a series of brutal murders across multiple countries. His defection to South Korea, orchestrated by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the CIA, complicates the pursuit of justice. Detective Chae Yi-do (Kim Myung-min) is determined to apprehend Gwang-il, but faces obstacles from NIS agent Park Jae-hyuk (Jang Dong-gun), who is tasked with protecting the defector. The film delves into the ensuing cat-and-mouse chase, highlighting the tensions between law enforcement agencies and the political ramifications of Gwang-il’s protected status.
Key Features
- Genre: Crime, Action, Thriller
- Runtime: 128 minutes
- Release Date: August 23, 2017
- Language: Korean
- Country: South Korea
Main Cast
- Jang Dong-gun as Park Jae-hyuk
- Kim Myung-min as Chae Yi-do
- Park Hee-soon as Ri Dae-bum
- Lee Jong-suk as Kim Gwang-il
Critical Reception
Upon its release, V.I.P. garnered attention for its intense action sequences and the performances of its lead actors. However, it faced criticism for its portrayal of graphic violence, particularly towards female characters, which some viewers found gratuitous. The film’s depiction of inter-agency conflicts and political intrigue was noted, though opinions varied regarding its execution
2. “Hot Young Bloods” (2014)
Hot Young Bloods (피끓는 청춘) is a 2014 South Korean teen romantic comedy directed by Lee Yeon-woo. Set in the early 1980s in rural Hongseong County, South Chungcheong Province, the film explores the intertwining lives, rivalries, and secret affections of high school students navigating adolescence.
Plot Summary
Young-sook (Park Bo-young) leads a feared female gang at Hongseong Agricultural High School. Beneath her tough exterior and sharp tongue, she harbors unspoken feelings for Joong-gil (Lee Jong-suk), the school’s charming playboy known for his effortless conquests. Despite his reputation, Joong-gil avoids pursuing Young-sook, aware that Gwang-sik (Kim Young-kwang), the intimidating leader of a rival school’s male gang, considers her his own.
The arrival of So-hee (Lee Se-young), a demure transfer student from Seoul, disrupts the school’s social dynamics. Joong-gil becomes infatuated with So-hee, while Young-sook perceives her as a competitor, leading to tensions. As Joong-gil attempts to win So-hee’s affection, he faces challenges from Gwang-sik, who grows suspicious of Young-sook’s feelings and Joong-gil’s intentions. This complex web of relationships culminates in a series of confrontations, testing the characters’ loyalties and desires.
Main Cast
- Park Bo-young as Young-sook
- Lee Jong-suk as Joong-gil
- Lee Se-young as So-hee
- Kim Young-kwang as Gwang-sik
Critical Reception
The film received praise for its nostalgic portrayal of 1980s rural Korea and the performances of its lead actors. Park Bo-young’s depiction of Young-sook’s vulnerability beneath her tough persona was particularly noted. Lee Jong-suk’s role as the suave yet sincere Joong-gil added depth to the narrative. The film’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments resonated with audiences, offering a fresh take on the coming-of-age genre.
3. “The Face Reader” (2013)
The Face Reader (관상) is a 2013 South Korean period drama directed by Han Jae-rim. The film features a distinguished cast, including Song Kang-ho, Lee Jung-jae, Baek Yoon-sik, Jo Jung-suk, and Lee Jong-suk.
Plot Summary
Set during the Joseon Dynasty in 1455, the narrative follows Nae-kyung (Song Kang-ho), the son of a disgraced noble family, who possesses an extraordinary ability to assess a person’s character, mental state, and habits through physiognomy—the study of facial features. Living in seclusion, Nae-kyung’s talents are recognized by a local government official, leading him to the capital. There, he becomes entangled in a political power struggle between Grand Prince Suyang (Lee Jung-jae), who harbors ambitions for the throne, and Kim Jong-seo (Baek Yoon-sik), a loyalist to King Munjong. As Nae-kyung navigates the treacherous waters of court politics, he must decide whether to use his abilities to influence the fate of the nation or protect his own family from impending danger.
Main Cast
- Song Kang-ho as Nae-kyung
- Lee Jung-jae as Grand Prince Suyang
- Baek Yoon-sik as Kim Jong-seo
- Jo Jung-suk as Paeng-heon
- Lee Jong-suk as Jin-hyeong
Critical Reception
The Face Reader was both a critical and commercial success, attracting over 9 million admissions in South Korea. It received multiple accolades, including six awards at the 50th Grand Bell Awards, such as Best Film, Best Director for Han Jae-rim, and Best Actor for Song Kang-ho.
