Lee Hyun Woo has become one of South Korea’s most versatile and talented actors. Since his debut as a child actor in 2005, he has impressed audiences with his range and depth in both TV dramas and films. As of 2025, Lee Hyun Woo has built an impressive filmography across various genres. Let’s look at 10 of his best works that showcase his growth and skill as an actor.
1. Secretly, Greatly (2013)
This action-comedy film was Lee Hyun Woo’s breakout role as an adult actor. He played Ri Hae-jin, one of three North Korean spies living undercover in South Korea. The movie was a huge box office success, selling over 6.9 million tickets. It allowed Lee to show both his comedic timing and action skills.
Key points:
- Lee’s first major adult role
- Box office hit with nearly 7 million viewers
- Showcased Lee’s versatility in comedy and action scenes
2. The Con Artists (2014)
In this heist film, Lee took on the role of Jong-bae, a genius hacker. The movie gave him a chance to play a more mature and complex character. It was another commercial success, proving Lee’s growing popularity with audiences.
Key points:
- Lee played a genius hacker
- The film attracted over 2.5 million viewers
- Showed Lee’s ability to portray intelligent, layered characters
3. Northern Limit Line (2015)
This war film is based on the real-life Second Battle of Yeonpyeong in 2002. Lee played Park Dong-hyuk, a young navy medic. The movie was praised for its realism and emotional impact. It allowed Lee to show his dramatic acting skills in a serious, historical context.
Key points:
- Based on true events from 2002
- Lee portrayed a navy medic
- The film had over 6 million viewers
4. Moorim School: Saga of the Brave (2016)
This fantasy action drama was Lee’s first lead role in a TV series. He played Yoon Shi-woo, a famous idol singer who enrolls in a mysterious martial arts school. The drama mixed elements of fantasy, action, and romance, letting Lee show off his diverse talents.
Key points:
- Lee’s first lead role in a TV drama
- Blended fantasy, action, and romance genres
- Aired in 16 episodes
5. The Liar and His Lover (2017)
In this romantic comedy drama, Lee played Kang Han-gyul, a genius composer who falls in love with a high school student with a beautiful voice. The drama was adapted from a popular Japanese manga. It gave Lee a chance to show his softer, more romantic side.
Key points:
- Based on a Japanese manga
- Lee played a musical genius
- Aired in 16 episodes
6. Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area (2022)
This Korean remake of the popular Spanish series “Money Heist” featured Lee as Rio, a young hacker. The series was a hit on Netflix, reaching the Top 10 in 51 countries. It showcased Lee’s ability to adapt to international-style productions.
Key points:
- Remake of a popular Spanish series
- Lee played a skilled hacker
- Successful on Netflix in over 50 countries
7. Hero (2022)
In this historical action film, Lee played Yoo Dong-ha, a young independence fighter during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea. The movie allowed Lee to take on a patriotic role and further demonstrate his action skills.
Key points:
- Set during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea
- Lee portrayed a young independence fighter
- Blend of historical drama and action
8. Dream (2023)
This sports comedy-drama saw Lee in the role of Kim In-sun, a member of South Korea’s national soccer team for the Homeless World Cup. The film mixed humor with touching moments, giving Lee a chance to show both his comedic and emotional range.
Key points:
- Based on the real Homeless World Cup
- Lee played a national soccer team member
- Balanced comedy and drama
9. A Good Day to Be a Dog (2023-2024)
This fantasy romance drama featured Lee as Lee Bo-gyeom, a man with a secret fear of dogs who falls for a woman cursed to turn into a dog at night. The unique premise allowed Lee to showcase his romantic lead abilities in a quirky, supernatural setting.
Key points:
- Based on a popular webtoon
- Lee played the male lead with a phobia of dogs
- Aired in 14 episodes
10. Cinderella at 2 AM (2024)
In this romantic comedy drama, Lee took on the role of Lee Seong-min, a young man working night shifts at a convenience store. The drama explored themes of youth, dreams, and romance, allowing Lee to connect with viewers through a relatable character.
Key points:
- Lee played a night shift worker
- Focused on themes of youth and dreams
- Aired in 16 episodes
