Lee Soo-kyung has become one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile young actresses. With her ability to portray a wide range of characters, from rebellious teenagers to complex adult roles, Lee has impressed both critics and audiences alike. As we look at her career up to 2025, let’s explore 10 of the best Korean dramas and movies featuring this rising star.
1. When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025)
This heartwarming slice-of-life drama is set to be one of Lee Soo-kyung’s most anticipated projects of 2025. The story follows the lives of a couple from their youth in the 1950s through to their later years. While Lee’s exact role hasn’t been revealed, her involvement in this star-studded cast alongside IU and Park Bo-gum has generated a lot of excitement. The drama promises to be a touching tribute to the struggles and joys of ordinary people’s lives across different eras in Korea.
2. Miracle: Letters to the President (2021)
This film marked a significant milestone in Lee Soo-kyung’s career. Set in the 1980s, the movie tells the true story of a family’s efforts to establish a train station in their remote village. Lee plays Bo-kyung, the determined older sister of the main character. Her performance earned her widespread praise and her second Baeksang Arts Award for Best Supporting Actress. The film beautifully captures the spirit of a small community coming together to achieve what seems impossible.
3. Law School (2021)
In this gripping legal drama, Lee Soo-kyung takes on the role of Kang Sol B, a cold and pressured law student. The series follows a group of students and professors at a prestigious law school as they become entangled in an unusual case. Lee’s portrayal of a struggling student dealing with intense academic pressure and personal challenges showcased her ability to handle complex, multi-layered characters.
4. The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale (2019)
This quirky zombie comedy allowed Lee Soo-kyung to show off her lighter side. She plays Hae-gul, a member of a family whose lives are turned upside down when they encounter a zombie. The film offers a fresh and humorous take on the zombie genre, with Lee’s character adding charm and wit to the eccentric family dynamics.
5. Heart Blackened (2017)
This intense crime drama was a turning point in Lee Soo-kyung’s career. She plays Im Mi-ra, the daughter of a wealthy businessman who becomes the prime suspect in her father’s fiancée’s murder. Lee’s nuanced performance as a young woman caught in a web of suspicion and family drama earned her critical acclaim and her first Baeksang Arts Award for Best Supporting Actress.
6. Yongsoon (2016)
In this coming-of-age film, Lee Soo-kyung takes on the challenging lead role of Yongsoon, a high school girl who develops feelings for her coach. The movie explores themes of first love, family relationships, and the struggles of adolescence. Lee’s raw and honest portrayal of a teenager grappling with complex emotions earned her nominations at several major film awards.
7. Where Stars Land (2018)
This workplace drama set in Incheon International Airport gave Lee Soo-kyung the opportunity to shine in a supporting role. She plays Na Young-joo, the youngest member of the airport’s security team. The series blends elements of romance, mystery, and everyday work life, with Lee’s character adding youthful energy and determination to the ensemble cast.
8. Dead Man (2024)
In this crime thriller, Lee Soo-kyung takes on a more mature role as Gong Hee-joo, a woman seeking revenge for her father’s death. The film follows a man falsely accused of embezzlement who must fight to reclaim his life. Lee’s performance adds depth and intensity to this gripping tale of betrayal and redemption.
9. Adamas (2022)
This mystery thriller series sees Lee Soo-kyung in the role of Kim Seo-hee, a TV reporter hiding a dark secret from her childhood. The drama follows twin brothers as they investigate a murder from 22 years ago. Lee’s portrayal of a character caught between her past trauma and present ambitions adds an intriguing layer to the complex narrative.
10. Love in the Big City (2024)
Based on a popular novel, this drama explores love and life in modern-day Seoul. Lee Soo-kyung plays Mi-ae, bringing to life one of the book’s beloved characters. While details about the series are still emerging, fans of the novel are eagerly anticipating Lee’s interpretation of this complex and relatable character.
