Lee Se-young has become one of South Korea’s most beloved actresses, captivating audiences with her versatile performances and undeniable charm. As we look back on her impressive career up to 2025, let’s explore the top 10 Korean dramas and movies that showcase her incredible talent.
1. The Red Sleeve (2021)
Set in the 18th century, “The Red Sleeve” tells a beautiful love story between King Jeongjo and royal concubine Uibin Sung. Lee Se-young plays Sung Deok-Im, a court lady who catches the eye of Crown Prince Yi San (later King Jeongjo). This historical drama showcases Lee Se-young’s ability to portray complex emotions and bring historical characters to life.
The story follows Deok-Im as she navigates the challenges of palace life and her growing feelings for the crown prince. Despite her desire for freedom and happiness, she eventually becomes the king’s concubine. Lee Se-young’s performance captures the internal struggle between love and duty, making this drama a must-watch for fans of historical romances.
2. Motel California (2025)
In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Lee Se-young plays Ji Kang-hee, an interior designer with an unusual background. Born and raised in a rural motel called “Motel California,” Kang-hee returns to her hometown after 12 years away. There, she reunites with her first love, Cheon Yeon-soo, played by Na In-woo.
“Motel California” is a perfect blend of romance, humor, and small-town charm. Lee Se-young shines as Kang-hee, bringing depth to a character torn between her past and her dreams for the future. The drama explores themes of home, family, and rediscovering oneself, all set against the backdrop of a quaint countryside motel.
3. The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract (2023)
This unique time-travel romance features Lee Se-young as Park Yeon-Woo, a woman from the 19th century who finds herself transported to modern-day Seoul. After a tragic wedding night where her husband dies, Yeon-Woo is mysteriously thrown into a well, only to emerge in the present day.
In Seoul, she meets Kang Tae-Ha, played by Bae In-Hyuk, who looks exactly like her deceased husband. The two enter into a contract marriage, leading to a series of funny and touching moments as Yeon-Woo tries to adapt to modern life. Lee Se-young’s portrayal of a fish-out-of-water character is both hilarious and endearing, making this drama a delightful watch.
4. The Law Cafe (2022)
In this romantic comedy, Lee Se-young takes on the role of Kim Yu-ri, a passionate lawyer who opens a cafe that serves both coffee and legal advice. The twist? Her new business is located in a building owned by her former love interest and fellow lawyer, Kim Jeong-ho (played by Lee Seung-gi).
“The Law Cafe” combines lighthearted romance with thought-provoking legal cases, allowing Lee Se-young to showcase both her comedic timing and her ability to handle more serious scenes. The chemistry between Lee Se-young and Lee Seung-gi is electric, making their characters’ journey from past lovers to potential partners again a joy to watch.
5. The Crowned Clown (2019)
In this historical drama, Lee Se-young plays Queen Yoo So-woon, wife to a paranoid king who decides to use a look-alike clown as his body double. As the queen, Lee Se-young delivers a nuanced performance, portraying a woman caught between her duty to the throne and her growing feelings for the kind-hearted clown impersonating her husband.
“The Crowned Clown” is a gripping tale of palace intrigue, identity, and forbidden love. Lee Se-young’s portrayal of Queen So-woon adds depth and emotion to the story, making it a standout in her filmography.
6. Doctor John (2019)
Switching gears to a medical drama, “Doctor John” sees Lee Se-young as Kang Shi-young, a warm-hearted anesthesiologist. The drama follows a team of pain management specialists as they work to uncover the causes of their patients’ mysterious pain, much like detectives solving a case.
Lee Se-young’s performance as Dr. Kang showcases her range as an actress, balancing professional competence with empathy and warmth. The drama explores complex medical and ethical issues, with Lee Se-young’s character often serving as the emotional heart of the story.
7. Memorist (2020)
In this supernatural crime thriller, Lee Se-young plays Han Sun-mi, a brilliant criminal profiler working alongside a detective with the ability to read people’s memories. As they hunt down a dangerous serial killer, Sun-mi’s intelligence and determination shine through.
Lee Se-young’s portrayal of Han Sun-mi is sharp and intense, proving her ability to excel in more action-packed and suspenseful roles. “Memorist” is a thrilling ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with Lee Se-young’s performance adding depth to the intricate plot.
8. Kairos (2020)
“Kairos” is a unique time-crossing thriller where Lee Se-young plays Han Ae-ri, a woman desperately searching for her missing mother. Through mysterious phone calls, Ae-ri connects with a man living one month in the past, and together they work to change their fates and solve the mysteries surrounding them.
This drama allows Lee Se-young to showcase her emotional range, portraying a character dealing with loss, hope, and determination. Her chemistry with co-star Shin Sung-rok adds another layer of intrigue to this mind-bending story.
9. Hit the Top (2017)
In this quirky time-travel comedy, Lee Se-young plays Choi Woo-seung, a present-day girl who gets entangled with a 1990s idol who has mysteriously time-traveled to 2017. As Woo-seung, Lee Se-young brings charm and humor to the role, navigating the bizarre situation with wit and heart.
“Hit the Top” is a fun romp through time, filled with 90s nostalgia and plenty of laughs. Lee Se-young’s performance adds to the drama’s light-hearted tone while also bringing depth to her character’s personal journey.
10. What Comes After Love (2024)
Rounding out our list is “What Comes After Love,” a poignant melodrama about second chances in love. Lee Se-young plays Choi Hong, a woman who encounters her ex-boyfriend, Jungo Aoki, five years after their breakup. Jungo, now a successful author, has written a book about their relationship and all the things he wishes he had said.
This drama allows Lee Se-young to dive deep into the complexities of past relationships and the possibility of rekindling old flames. Her portrayal of Hong, a woman guarding her heart while confronting unresolved feelings, is both relatable and moving.
