Lee Do-hyun is swiftly making a name for himself as a prominent figure in K-dramas, having captivated viewers with numerous compelling performances. Since embarking on his acting journey in 2017, he has emerged as a versatile talent, with standout projects that have garnered critical acclaim. His role in the 2019 series Hotel Del Luna marked a pivotal moment in his career, paving the way for significant roles in renowned K-dramas like 18 Again, Youth of May, and Sweet Home.
Do-hyun’s performances across these series showcase his remarkable ability to embody diverse characters. His nuanced portrayals, combined with emotional richness, have not only earned him a loyal fanbase but also solidified his status as one of the most talented young actors in the industry.
8 Hotel Del Luna (2019)
Go Chung-myung
In the enchanting realm of Hotel Del Luna, Lee Do-hyun shines as Go Chung-myung, the heart-wrenching former lover of the enigmatic hotel owner, Jang Man-wol. Despite a brief appearance, his portrayal leaves an indelible mark. Through his skillful acting, Lee Do-hyun vividly illustrates the intricate dynamics between the characters, revealing a tragic betrayal that ultimately safeguards Man-wol’s existence.
This role highlights Lee Do-hyun’s remarkable ability to make a significant impact even as a supporting character. Jang Man-wol’s enigmatic presence required a profound backstory, and Do-hyun’s sincere performance enhances her character’s depth while standing strong as a memorable narrative moment. Although Go Chung-myung may not be his most celebrated role, it undeniably contributed to his rise in the industry.
7 The Glory (2022)
Joo Yeo-jeong
The Glory, one of Netflix’s premier K-dramas, presents a gripping saga of revenge rooted in real-life events. Lee Do-hyun portrays Joo Yeo-jeong, a crucial character who adds remarkable depth to this intricate tale. As the steadfast ally to Moon Dong-eun (played by Song Hye-kyo), who embarks on a revenge mission against her bullies, his performance is both compelling and profound.
Do-hyun’s portrayal brings a compelling layer of moral complexity to the character. His chemistry with Song Hye-kyo enhances the emotional resonance of the narrative. Even amid a cast brimming with talent, Do-hyun’s contributions shine brightly, solidifying his position as a noteworthy actor, even if his role isn’t the most unforgettable in the series.
6 Clean With Passion For Now (2018-2019)
Gil Oh-dol
In Clean With Passion For Now, Lee Do-hyun takes on the role of Gil Oh-dol, a promising Taekwondo athlete and the younger brother of the female protagonist, played by Kim You-jung. His character introduces warmth and relatability, enriching the storyline through a refreshing subplot that complements the central romance. Lee Do-hyun’s execution elevates the narrative significantly.
Though he portrays the younger sibling of Kim You-jung’s character, it’s interesting to note that in reality, he is actually four years her senior.
Do-hyun’s endearing performance ensures that he leaves a lasting impression, showcasing his talent in supporting roles. While this series might not fully encapsulate his potential, it does illustrate his ability to enhance the overall narrative.
5 Melancholia (2021)
Baek Seung-yoo
Melancholia showcases Lee Do-hyun’s proficiency in tackling intricate roles, portraying Baek Seung-yoo, a math prodigy dealing with the shadows of a traumatic past. The drama critiques South Korea’s educational pressures while exploring the unique bond between the two leads, held together by their shared passion for mathematics.
Do-hyun’s ability to convey authenticity in complex characters stands out in this narrative. The series takes a softer approach compared to traditional K-dramas, allowing him the space to develop his character authentically. His performance articulates Seung-yoo’s inner conflicts and growth, resonating strongly with viewers.
4 Youth Of May (2021)
Hwang Hee Tae
In Youth of May, Lee Do-hyun delivers a truly gripping performance, solidifying its place among his most notable works. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent Gwangju Uprising in 1980, the series explores the poignant love story between Hee-tae (Do-hyun), a devoted medical student, and Myung-hee (Go Min-si), a nurse from contrasting social circles, as they navigate their relationship amid political turmoil.
The drama’s careful pacing offers ample chance for actors to demonstrate their abilities, particularly Lee Do-hyun.
This series exemplifies his evolution as an actor. Hee-tae’s character exudes a laid-back charm, enhanced by determination, which adds layers to his portrayal. The escalating political tensions amplify the stakes, creating a tense backdrop for their romance. Additionally, Lee Do-hyun’s collaboration with Sweet Home co-star Go Min-si establishes an engaging dynamic throughout the series.
3 The Good Bad Mother (2023)
Choi Kang-ho
Lee Do-hyun’s portrayal in The Good Bad Mother stands out as one of his finest performances in 2023. Kang-ho, his character, faces the immense challenges of a brain injury that leaves him with the mindset of a child for a significant duration of the series. Do-hyun adeptly navigates this role, embodying Kang-ho’s vulnerability while showcasing his evolution throughout the narrative, a true testament to his range as an actor.
The success of The Good Bad Mother is deeply intertwined with Lee Do-hyun’s captivating performance and the dynamic chemistry he establishes with his co-stars. His relationship with Ra Mi-ran, in particular, adds nuanced dimensions to the series, rendering it emotionally impactful. This K-drama highlights Lee Do-hyun’s growing prowess and his ability to resonate with audiences through deeply felt performances.
2 18 Again (2020)
Go Woo Young
A perfect entry point for K-drama newcomers, 18 Again showcases Lee Do-hyun’s comedic prowess and his ability to provide a unique perspective on youthful experiences. Loosely inspired by the American film 17 Again, Lee Do-hyun plays the younger incarnation of Hong Dae-young, a middle-aged man who finds himself in his teenage form, reliving high school alongside his children.
Whereas 17 Again operates as a standalone film, 18 Again builds upon the concept, enhancing the narrative with Do-hyun’s standout performance. His ability to embody a middle-aged spirit trapped in a youthful appearance is both hilarious and compelling, bolstered by excellent chemistry with his co-stars as he navigates the show’s emotional intricacies.
1 Sweet Home (2020-2024)
Lee Eun-Hyeok
Lee Do-hyun’s portrayal of Lee Eun-hyuk in Sweet Home firmly establishes the series as his crowning achievement to date. In this gripping post-apocalyptic thriller, Do-hyun masterfully showcases the duality of his character, navigating the desperation of a monster-ridden world with emotional intensity. His return in season 3 allowed him to reveal yet another facet of Eun-hyuk, captivating fans and critics alike.
While Do-hyun plays a leading role across both the first and third seasons, it is notable that he only appears briefly in the second season.
His authentic portrayal enriches the narrative, making Sweet Home an essential viewing experience for K-drama enthusiasts. The series not only emphasizes Lee Do-hyun’s capacity to embody complex, emotionally charged roles but also showcases his ability to guide a multifaceted narrative with his powerful on-screen presence. The stark contrast between Eun-hyuk’s appearances throughout the seasons firmly cements Lee Do-hyun’s status as an emerging star in the Korean entertainment sector.
Lee Do-hyun Now Has A Film Career Too
Though primarily recognized for his work in K-dramas, Lee Do-hyun has successfully ventured into the film industry in 2024, marking his cinematic debut in the supernatural horror film Exhuma. This movie intricately weaves Korean history and folklore into its narrative, and with his background in horror from projects like Sweet Home, Do-hyun’s transition into film seems seamless.
In Exhuma, he portrays an apprentice to a Korean shaman, both of whom strive to uncover the source of a mysterious ailment afflicting a young man. Their investigation leads them to uncover a malevolent spirit linked to ancestral ties from the era of Japanese occupation in Korea. This film provides a rich exploration of both Japanese and Korean folklore while remaining engaging as a horror narrative.
Throughout the film, Lee Do-hyun’s character functions as an informative guide, offering valuable insights into the historical backdrop for both the characters and the audience. However, he also experiences the dramatic twist of being possessed by a spirit, allowing him to flex his acting prowess in a new context. For his film debut, Do-hyun received nominations for Best New Actor at both the Blue Dragon Film Awards and the Buil Film Awards in South Korea.
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