Lee Min-ki is a talented South Korean actor who has captivated audiences with his versatile performances in both dramas and movies. Born on January 16, 1985, Lee has been active in the entertainment industry since the early 2000s. As we look at his impressive career up to 2025, let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies that showcase Lee Min-ki’s acting prowess.
1. Because This Is My First Life (2017)
This romantic comedy drama is a must-watch for Lee Min-ki fans. The story revolves around Nam Se-hee, a socially awkward computer designer played by Lee Min-ki. Se-hee’s life takes an unexpected turn when he enters into a contract marriage with Yoon Ji-ho, an aspiring drama writer who is homeless.
The charm of this drama lies in its realistic portrayal of modern relationships and societal pressures. Lee Min-ki’s performance as the logical and emotionally distant Se-hee is both endearing and relatable. As the story unfolds, we see his character slowly open up and learn to express his feelings.
What makes this drama special:
- Realistic portrayal of modern relationships
- Lee Min-ki’s nuanced performance
- Heartwarming story with a touch of humor
2. Behind Your Touch (2023)
In this comedic investigative drama, Lee Min-ki plays Moon Jang-yeol, an ambitious elite detective. The story takes an interesting turn when Jang-yeol discovers that a local veterinarian named Bong Ye-bun has psychometric abilities. He sees this as an opportunity to solve cases and return to the criminal investigation team in Seoul.
Lee Min-ki’s portrayal of the determined detective is both funny and engaging. The chemistry between his character and the veterinarian leads to many hilarious situations as they work together to solve cases.
Highlights of the drama:
- Unique blend of comedy and mystery
- Lee Min-ki’s comedic timing
- Interesting premise with psychometric abilities
3. My Liberation Notes (2022)
This drama offers a more serious and introspective role for Lee Min-ki. He plays Yeom Chang-hee, one of three siblings living in a rural area outside of Seoul. The story focuses on their daily lives and their search for happiness and liberation from their mundane existence.
Lee Min-ki’s performance as Chang-hee is subtle yet powerful. He perfectly captures the frustration and yearning of a young man stuck in a life he feels he can’t escape. The drama’s slow pace and thoughtful dialogue allow Lee Min-ki to showcase his ability to convey complex emotions with minimal dialogue.
What sets this drama apart:
- Deep, introspective storytelling
- Lee Min-ki’s nuanced performance
- Beautiful cinematography of rural Korea
4. The Beauty Inside (2018)
In this fantasy romantic comedy, Lee Min-ki takes on the challenging role of Seo Do-jae, a brilliant airline company executive who suffers from prosopagnosia – a condition that prevents him from recognizing faces. His character falls in love with Han Se-gae, a top actress whose appearance changes every week.
Lee Min-ki’s portrayal of Do-jae is both charming and vulnerable. He masterfully conveys the frustration and loneliness of someone living with face blindness while also showing the character’s strength and determination.
Standout elements of the drama:
- Unique premise combining fantasy and romance
- Lee Min-ki’s emotional range
- Beautiful cinematography and visual effects
5. Tidal Wave (2009)
Moving to the big screen, “Tidal Wave” is a disaster film that showcases Lee Min-ki’s ability to perform in high-stakes, emotional scenes. He plays a lifeguard in the beach town of Haeundae who makes a heartbreaking sacrifice when a tsunami hits.
Although not the main lead, Lee Min-ki’s performance is memorable and touching. His character’s bravery and selflessness in the face of disaster leave a lasting impression on viewers.
What makes this movie stand out:
- Impressive special effects for its time
- Lee Min-ki’s emotional performance
- Thrilling disaster scenes
6. Spellbound (2011)
In this horror-romantic comedy, Lee Min-ki plays Ma Jo-goo, a magician always on the lookout for new acts to spice up his performances. He meets Kang Yeo-ri, a woman who can see ghosts, and decides to include her in his show.
Lee Min-ki’s portrayal of Jo-goo is charming and funny. He perfectly balances the comedic elements of the story with the more serious romantic plot. His chemistry with co-star Son Ye-jin is a highlight of the film.
Key features of the movie:
- Unique blend of horror, comedy, and romance
- Lee Min-ki’s comedic timing
- Interesting take on ghost stories
7. Monster (2014)
This thriller showcases a different side of Lee Min-ki’s acting abilities. He plays Tae-soo, a merciless and erratic serial killer who meticulously covers his tracks. Despite his gruesome actions, Tae-soo deeply cares for his adoptive family.
Lee Min-ki’s performance is chilling and complex. He manages to make Tae-soo both terrifying and somewhat sympathetic, showcasing the character’s inner conflicts and troubled past.
What makes this movie notable:
- Lee Min-ki’s intense, dark performance
- Gripping thriller plot
- Exploration of complex family dynamics
8. Very Ordinary Couple (2013)
This romantic comedy-drama stars Lee Min-ki alongside Kim Min-hee as a couple going through a messy breakup while working at the same bank. The film offers a realistic and sometimes painful look at modern relationships.
Lee Min-ki’s performance is raw and honest. He perfectly captures the frustration, lingering affection, and pettiness that often come with breakups. His chemistry with Kim Min-hee feels genuine and relatable.
Standout aspects of the film:
- Realistic portrayal of breakups
- Lee Min-ki’s natural acting
- Blend of humor and emotional depth
9. For the Emperor (2014)
In this intense crime drama, Lee Min-ki plays Lee Hwan, a man navigating the dangerous world of illegal gambling. As he climbs the ranks, he faces numerous challenges and moral dilemmas.
Lee Min-ki’s portrayal of Hwan is gritty and complex. He effectively conveys the character’s ambition, fear, and inner conflicts as he becomes more deeply involved in the criminal underworld.
Key elements of the movie:
- Intense action scenes
- Lee Min-ki’s powerful performance
- Exploration of moral gray areas
10. Marry Kills People (2025)
While this drama hasn’t aired yet as of the current date, it’s highly anticipated due to its unique premise and Lee Min-ki’s involvement. Based on a Canadian series, the Korean remake promises to be a black comedy drama about a doctor who illegally assists critically ill people with euthanasia.
Lee Min-ki is set to play a detective determined to take down the doctor’s operation. This role is expected to showcase Lee Min-ki’s ability to portray complex characters in morally ambiguous situations.
What to look forward to:
- Intriguing premise
- Lee Min-ki in a detective role
- Blend of dark humor and serious themes
