Ryu Seung-ryong is one of South Korea’s most talented and versatile actors. With a career spanning over two decades, he has starred in numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful films and TV shows. As of 2025, Ryu continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances and ability to bring complex characters to life. Let’s take a look at 10 of the best Korean dramas and movies featuring this remarkable actor.
1. Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2013)
This heartwarming and emotional film showcases Ryu Seung-ryong in one of his most memorable roles. He plays Lee Yong-gu, a man with the mental capacity of a 6-year-old who is wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. The story follows Yong-gu’s relationship with his young daughter and his fellow inmates who help him reunite with her.
Ryu’s portrayal of Yong-gu is both touching and convincing. He perfectly captures the innocence and vulnerability of his character, making the audience laugh and cry in equal measure. The film was a massive hit in South Korea and earned Ryu the Grand Prize at the Baeksang Arts Awards.
2. The Admiral: Roaring Currents (2014)
In this historical epic, Ryu Seung-ryong takes on the role of General Kurushima Michifusa, a formidable Japanese commander. The film tells the story of the famous Battle of Myeongnyang, where the Korean admiral Yi Sun-sin led just 12 ships to victory against a Japanese fleet of 133 vessels.
Although Ryu plays an antagonist in this movie, his performance is nuanced and compelling. He brings depth to his character, showcasing the general’s strategic mind and fierce determination. The film became the highest-grossing movie in South Korean history, further cementing Ryu’s status as a box office draw.
3. Extreme Job (2019)
This action-comedy sees Ryu Seung-ryong in the role of Chief Detective Go, the leader of a struggling narcotics unit. In an attempt to crack a drug case, the team opens a chicken restaurant as a front for their stakeout. Unexpectedly, their chicken becomes wildly popular, complicating their police work.
Ryu’s comedic timing shines in this film as he navigates the absurd situation his character finds himself in. His chemistry with the ensemble cast adds to the movie’s charm and humor. Extreme Job was a massive hit, becoming the second highest-grossing film in South Korean history.
4. Kingdom (2019-2020)
In this Netflix original series, Ryu Seung-ryong plays the cunning and ambitious Lord Cho Hak-ju, the antagonist of the story. Set in Korea’s Joseon period, Kingdom blends historical drama with zombie horror, creating a unique and thrilling narrative.
Ryu’s portrayal of the power-hungry Lord Cho is chilling and complex. He brings a sense of gravitas to the role, making his character both feared and respected. His performance adds depth to the political intrigue that runs parallel to the zombie outbreak storyline.
5. Moving (2023)
This superhero drama showcases Ryu Seung-ryong in a more grounded and emotional role. He plays Jang Ju-won, a man with healing abilities and superhuman strength who runs a fried chicken shop after retiring from the National Intelligence Service.
Ryu’s performance in Moving is praised for its subtlety and depth. He portrays Ju-won as a relatable character dealing with everyday struggles despite his extraordinary abilities. The series explores themes of family, love, and the challenges of being different in a world that values conformity.
6. Masquerade (2012)
In this historical drama, Ryu Seung-ryong plays the role of Heo Gyun, a loyal advisor to the king. The film tells the story of a commoner who is hired to impersonate the king when the latter falls ill.
Although not the lead role, Ryu’s performance as Heo Gyun is crucial to the story. He brings gravitas and complexity to his character, showcasing the internal conflicts of a man torn between loyalty to the throne and concern for the people.
7. The Good Bad Mother (2023)
This heartwarming TV series features Ryu Seung-ryong in a supporting role as a tailor. The story revolves around a prosecutor who reverts to a childlike state after an accident, forcing him to rebuild his relationship with his mother.
Ryu’s character adds warmth and humor to the series. His performance, though not central to the main plot, provides important moments of levity and wisdom that enhance the overall narrative.
8. War of the Arrows (2011)
In this historical action film, Ryu Seung-ryong plays a Manchu warrior. The movie is set during the second Manchu invasion of Korea and follows a skilled archer’s quest to rescue his sister from Manchu invaders.
Ryu’s portrayal of the antagonist is both menacing and nuanced. He brings a sense of honor and complexity to his character, making him more than just a one-dimensional villain.
9. All About My Wife (2012)
This romantic comedy showcases Ryu Seung-ryong’s versatility as an actor. He plays a man who hires a notorious ladies’ man to seduce his wife in hopes that she’ll ask for a divorce.
Ryu’s comedic timing and emotional range are on full display in this film. He perfectly captures the frustration and desperation of his character while still maintaining a likable presence on screen.
10. Psychokinesis (2018)
In this superhero comedy-drama, Ryu Seung-ryong plays an ordinary security guard who suddenly develops telekinetic powers. He tries to use his newfound abilities to save his estranged daughter’s neighborhood from a construction company.
Ryu’s performance balances humor with heartfelt emotion. He portrays his character’s journey from a bumbling, selfish man to a caring father and reluctant hero with authenticity and charm.
