Lee Moo Saeng has become one of South Korea’s most versatile and sought-after actors. With his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to complex villains, Lee has captivated audiences in both dramas and films. As of 2025, here are the top 10 Korean dramas and movies starring Lee Moo Saeng that you shouldn’t miss.
1. As You Stood By (2025)
This thrilling Netflix drama stars Lee Moo Saeng as Jin So Baek, the head of a large food distribution company. The story follows two women forced to commit murder and the unexpected twists that follow. Lee’s portrayal of the mysterious businessman adds depth and intrigue to the suspenseful plot. With its star-studded cast and gripping storyline, “As You Stood By” quickly became a fan favorite upon its release.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2025
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Average Viewership Rating: 9.2%
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
2. Hide (2024)
In this Coupang Play thriller, Lee Moo Saeng takes on the role of Cha Sung-jae, a man harboring a dark secret from his wife. The drama follows the mysterious disappearance of Cha Sung-jae and the subsequent investigation led by his wife. Lee’s nuanced performance showcases his ability to portray complex characters, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the series.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2024
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Average Viewership Rating: 7.5%
- Streaming Platform: Coupang Play
3. Maestra: Strings of Truth (2023-2024)
Lee Moo Saeng stars as Yoo Jung-jae, the ex-lover of the main character and an investment tycoon, in this musical drama. The series revolves around a female conductor uncovering mysterious incidents within her orchestra. Lee’s chemistry with lead actress Lee Young-ae and his portrayal of a conflicted character earned him critical acclaim.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2023-2024
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Average Viewership Rating: 5.33%
- Peak Viewership: 6.784%
- Network: tvN
4. The Glory (2022-2023)
Although Lee Moo Saeng appears as a guest star in this popular revenge drama, his portrayal of Kang Yeong-cheon, a psychopathic murderer, left a lasting impression on viewers. His chilling performance in just a few episodes showcased his ability to embody dark and complex characters.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2022-2023
- Number of Episodes: 16 (Part 1: 8, Part 2: 8)
- Average Viewership Rating: 8.9%
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
5. Thirty-Nine (2022)
In this heartwarming drama about friendship and love, Lee Moo Saeng plays Kim Jin-seok, a representative of an entertainment company. The series follows three women on the cusp of turning 40 as they navigate life, love, and loss. Lee’s portrayal of a supportive and caring character added depth to the ensemble cast.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2022
- Number of Episodes: 12
- Average Viewership Rating: 8.2%
- Network: JTBC
6. The Silent Sea (2021)
Set in a dystopian future, this sci-fi thriller features Lee Moo Saeng as Chief Gong Soo-hyuk, part of a team sent on a dangerous mission to the moon. Lee’s performance as a dedicated and conflicted team member added tension and emotion to the high-stakes plot.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2021
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Average Viewership Rating: 8.1%
- Streaming Platform: Netflix
7. The World of the Married (2020)
Lee Moo Saeng’s role as Kim Yoon-gi, a neuropsychiatrist, in this record-breaking drama about infidelity and revenge, significantly boosted his popularity. His nuanced portrayal of a character caught between loyalty and desire earned him widespread recognition.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2020
- Number of Episodes: 16
- Peak Viewership Rating: 28.371% (highest in Korean cable television history)
- Network: JTBC
8. Citizen of a Kind (2024)
In this heartwarming film based on a true story, Lee Moo Saeng plays Oh Myung-hwan, the head of a voice phishing organization. The movie follows a laundromat owner who catches a criminal, showcasing Lee’s ability to portray morally ambiguous characters with depth and complexity.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2024
- Box Office: $5.8 million
- Total Tickets Sold: 837,959
- Genre: Drama, Crime
9. While You Were Sleeping (2024)
Lee Moo Saeng stars as Kim Joon-seok in this mystery romance film. The story revolves around a couple whose happiness is disrupted when the wife suffers from selective memory loss after a car accident. Lee’s portrayal of a loving husband with hidden secrets keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2024
- Genre: Mystery, Romance
- Director: Jang Yoon-hyun
- Running Time: 100 minutes
10. Noryang: Deadly Sea (2023)
In this historical war film, Lee Moo Saeng takes on the role of Konishi Yukinaga, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The movie depicts a crucial naval battle in Korean history, with Lee’s performance adding depth to the portrayal of historical figures.
Key Statistics:
- Release Year: 2023
- Genre: Historical, War, Action
- Box Office: Not available
- Director: Kim Han-min