Lee Seung-gi is one of South Korea’s most beloved and talented actors. Known for his versatility and charm, he has starred in many popular Korean dramas and movies over the years. If you’re a fan of Lee Seung-gi or just looking for some great Korean entertainment to watch, here are 10 of his best dramas and movies that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Brilliant Legacy (2009)
Also known as “Shining Inheritance,” this drama was Lee Seung-gi’s breakout role that made him a household name. The story follows Go Eun-sung, a young woman who loses everything and becomes homeless. By chance, she meets a wealthy elderly woman who takes her in. Lee Seung-gi plays Sun Woo Hwan, the grandmother’s spoiled grandson who initially clashes with Eun-sung.
What makes this drama so enjoyable is watching the growth of Lee Seung-gi’s character from an immature, selfish young man to someone who learns the value of hard work and compassion. The romance that develops between Hwan and Eun-sung is sweet and heartwarming. With high ratings and positive reviews, this drama helped establish Lee Seung-gi as a rising star to watch.
2. My Girlfriend is a Gumiho (2010)
This fantasy romantic comedy showcases Lee Seung-gi’s talent for both humor and romance. He plays Cha Dae-woong, an aspiring action star who accidentally releases a gumiho (a nine-tailed fox from Korean mythology) from an ancient painting. The gumiho, played by Shin Min-ah, takes human form and sticks by Dae-woong’s side as she tries to become fully human.
Full of funny moments and cute chemistry between the leads, this drama is pure entertainment from start to finish. Lee Seung-gi is especially charming as the cowardly but kind-hearted Dae-woong who slowly falls for the lovable gumiho. If you enjoy fantasy elements mixed with romance and comedy, this is a must-watch.
3. The King 2 Hearts (2012)
For those who like their romance with a side of political intrigue, “The King 2 Hearts” offers an interesting premise. Lee Seung-gi stars as South Korea’s crown prince who ends up in an arranged marriage with a North Korean special forces officer (played by Ha Ji-won) as part of a unification project between the two countries.
This drama allows Lee Seung-gi to show more depth as an actor. His character starts off immature and irresponsible but grows into a strong leader as he faces political challenges and threats to his country. The unlikely romance between North and South is both sweet and full of obstacles to overcome. With action, humor, and heartfelt moments, this drama has a bit of everything.
4. Gu Family Book (2013)
Mixing historical drama with fantasy elements, “Gu Family Book” stars Lee Seung-gi as Choi Kang-chi, a half-human, half-mythical creature known as a gumiho. The story follows Kang-chi as he searches for a way to become fully human while fighting against those who would use his powers for evil.
This drama showcases Lee Seung-gi’s action skills as well as his emotional range. Kang-chi’s journey of self-discovery and his struggle between his human and gumiho sides make for compelling storytelling. The historical setting and beautiful cinematography add to the epic feel of this series. Fans of fantasy and period dramas will find a lot to enjoy here.
5. You’re All Surrounded (2014)
Switching gears to a more contemporary setting, “You’re All Surrounded” is a police drama with Lee Seung-gi playing a rookie detective. His character, Eun Dae-gu, joins the police force to investigate his mother’s murder from years ago. Along with his fellow rookies, he learns what it means to be a true detective while uncovering secrets from the past.
This drama balances lighter moments of comedy with the team of newbie detectives with more serious crime-solving plots. Lee Seung-gi shows good chemistry with his co-stars and handles both the humorous and dramatic scenes well. If you enjoy police procedurals with a mix of personal storylines, give this one a try.
6. A Korean Odyssey (2017-2018)
Returning to the fantasy genre, “A Korean Odyssey” is a modern retelling of the Chinese classic “Journey to the West.” Lee Seung-gi plays Son Oh-gong, a powerful immortal being who is bound to protect a woman who can see ghosts. As they face supernatural threats together, a romance slowly develops between them.
This drama allows Lee Seung-gi to play a more mischievous and charismatic character. Son Oh-gong is powerful yet playful, gradually showing a softer side as he falls for the female lead. With impressive special effects, an interesting mythology, and a star-studded cast, this drama is an entertaining ride from start to finish.
7. Vagabond (2019)
For fans of action and suspense, “Vagabond” delivers plenty of thrills. Lee Seung-gi plays Cha Dal-gun, a stuntman who loses his nephew in a mysterious plane crash. As he investigates the accident, he uncovers a web of corruption going all the way up to the highest levels of government.
This drama showcases Lee Seung-gi’s growth as an action star. The fight scenes and stunts are impressive, and the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat with its twists and turns. While there’s a hint of romance, the focus is mainly on the action and conspiracy storyline. If you enjoy high-stakes political thrillers, “Vagabond” is worth checking out.
8. Mouse (2021)
Taking on his most challenging role yet, Lee Seung-gi stars in the psychological thriller “Mouse.” He plays Jung Ba-reum, a kind-hearted police officer whose life takes a dark turn after a confrontation with a serial killer. As the story unfolds, shocking revelations come to light about Ba-reum’s true nature.
This drama allows Lee Seung-gi to show a completely different side to his acting. Without spoiling too much, his character goes through extreme changes that showcase his range as an actor. “Mouse” deals with heavy themes and has some disturbing content, so it’s not for the faint of heart. But for those who enjoy intense psychological thrillers, it’s a gripping watch that will keep you guessing until the end.
9. The Law Cafe (2022)
Returning to a lighter genre, “The Law Cafe” is a romantic comedy that reunites Lee Seung-gi with his “A Korean Odyssey” co-star Lee Se-young. He plays Kim Jung-ho, a former prosecutor who becomes the landlord of a building where his high school friend opens a “law cafe” to provide legal advice.
This drama showcases Lee Seung-gi’s talent for romantic comedy. The bickering and eventual romance between the leads is fun to watch, and there’s a good balance of lighthearted moments with more serious legal cases. If you’re in the mood for a feel-good romance with some legal drama mixed in, “The Law Cafe” is a great choice.
10. Love Forecast (2015 Movie)
While Lee Seung-gi is best known for his TV dramas, he has also appeared in a few movies. “Love Forecast” is a romantic comedy where he plays Kang Joon-soo, a elementary school teacher who has been in love with his best friend since high school. The problem is, she only sees him as a friend and tends to date the wrong guys.
This movie allows Lee Seung-gi to show a more mature side as he navigates the complications of unrequited love and changing relationships. It’s a relatable story with both funny and touching moments. If you enjoy friends-to-lovers stories or just want to see Lee Seung-gi in a feature film, “Love Forecast” is worth checking out.
