Lee Sun-kyun was one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile actors. He captivated audiences with his powerful performances across various genres. Let’s explore 10 of his best Korean dramas and movies that showcase his incredible range and skill as an actor.
1. Parasite (2019)
Parasite is undoubtedly one of Lee Sun-kyun’s most famous roles internationally. This Oscar-winning film directed by Bong Joon-ho tells the story of two families from different social classes whose lives become entangled in unexpected ways.
Lee Sun-kyun plays Mr. Park, the wealthy father of the Park family. His portrayal of a successful businessman who is somewhat oblivious to the struggles of those less fortunate than him is both nuanced and compelling. The film’s exploration of class inequality in modern society resonated with audiences worldwide.
Parasite made history as the first South Korean film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. It also won awards for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film. Lee Sun-kyun, along with the rest of the cast, received the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
2. My Mister (2018)
In this critically acclaimed drama series, Lee Sun-kyun plays Park Dong-hoon, a middle-aged engineer dealing with personal and professional challenges. The story follows Dong-hoon’s unlikely friendship with a young woman named Lee Ji-an, played by IU.
My Mister explores themes of loneliness, resilience, and human connection. Lee Sun-kyun’s portrayal of Dong-hoon is deeply moving, capturing the character’s quiet strength and kindness. His performance earned him praise from critics and viewers alike.
The drama’s realistic depiction of everyday struggles and the healing power of human relationships struck a chord with many viewers. It’s considered one of the best Korean dramas of recent years.
3. A Hard Day (2014)
A Hard Day is an action-packed thriller that showcases Lee Sun-kyun’s ability to lead a high-intensity film. He plays Detective Ko Gun-su, a corrupt police officer who accidentally kills a man in a hit-and-run incident and then tries to cover up his crime.
The film is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and dark humor. Lee Sun-kyun’s performance as the morally compromised protagonist is both thrilling and nuanced. He perfectly captures Ko Gun-su’s desperation and resourcefulness as he tries to stay one step ahead of those who threaten to expose him.
A Hard Day received critical acclaim and was a commercial success. It solidified Lee Sun-kyun’s status as a versatile actor capable of carrying a high-stakes thriller.
4. Coffee Prince (2007)
While Lee Sun-kyun wasn’t the main lead in Coffee Prince, his supporting role as Choi Han-sung was crucial to the story and helped launch him into mainstream popularity.
Coffee Prince is a romantic comedy about a tomboy who pretends to be a man to get a job at a coffee shop. Lee Sun-kyun plays a charming music producer who becomes entangled in the main characters’ love story.
His portrayal of Han-sung added depth to the drama and showcased his ability to shine even in supporting roles. Coffee Prince was a huge hit and remains a beloved classic in Korean drama history.
5. Pasta (2010)
In Pasta, Lee Sun-kyun takes on the role of Choi Hyun-wook, a talented but hot-tempered chef who becomes the new head chef at an Italian restaurant. The drama follows his professional rivalry and budding romance with a kitchen assistant named Seo Yoo-kyung.
Lee Sun-kyun’s portrayal of the passionate and sometimes difficult Hyun-wook is both charismatic and entertaining. His chemistry with co-star Gong Hyo-jin helped make Pasta a delightful romantic comedy that food lovers especially enjoyed.
The drama was a hit and further cemented Lee Sun-kyun’s status as a leading man in Korean television.
6. Behind the White Tower (2007)
This medical drama was another breakthrough role for Lee Sun-kyun. He plays Choi Do-young, an ambitious doctor climbing the ranks in a prestigious hospital. The drama explores the politics and ethical dilemmas in the medical field.
Lee Sun-kyun’s performance as the complex and driven Do-young earned him critical acclaim. He skillfully portrayed the character’s internal struggles and moral choices, making for a compelling watch.
Behind the White Tower was praised for its realistic portrayal of hospital life and the strong performances of its cast, particularly Lee Sun-kyun.
7. Dr. Brain (2021)
In this sci-fi thriller series, Lee Sun-kyun plays Dr. Sewon Koh, a brilliant neuroscientist who develops a method of accessing the memories of the dead. He uses this technology to uncover the truth behind his family’s mysterious deaths.
Dr. Brain showcases Lee Sun-kyun’s ability to lead a complex, genre-bending series. His portrayal of the genius scientist grappling with personal tragedy and ethical dilemmas is both intense and emotionally resonant.
The series was notable for being the first Korean-language show produced for Apple TV+. Lee Sun-kyun’s performance earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the International Emmy Awards.
8. Sleep (2023)
Sleep is a horror-mystery film that demonstrates Lee Sun-kyun’s versatility as an actor. He plays Hyun-soo, a man whose strange sleepwalking habits begin to terrify his pregnant wife.
The film blends elements of horror, mystery, and domestic drama. Lee Sun-kyun’s performance captures the confusion and desperation of a man whose nighttime behavior is beyond his control, creating a sense of unease that drives the film’s tension.
Sleep received positive reviews for its unique take on the horror genre and the strong performances of its lead actors.
9. Killing Romance (2023)
In this quirky romantic comedy, Lee Sun-kyun plays Jonathan Na, a wealthy businessman married to a former actress. The film takes a comedic look at their dysfunctional relationship when the actress decides she wants out of the marriage.
Lee Sun-kyun’s portrayal of the controlling and eccentric Jonathan Na is a departure from his usual roles. He fully embraces the character’s over-the-top nature, delivering a performance that is both funny and slightly unsettling.
Killing Romance showcases Lee Sun-kyun’s ability to take on comedic roles and his willingness to push boundaries as an actor.
10. The Land of Happiness (2024)
One of Lee Sun-kyun’s final films, The Land of Happiness, is a legal drama set against the backdrop of a significant political event in South Korean history. While specific details about his role are limited, the film was highly anticipated due to its subject matter and strong cast.
Lee Sun-kyun was known for his ability to bring depth and nuance to characters in politically charged narratives. His involvement in The Land of Happiness suggested another powerful performance in a thought-provoking film.
