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Lee Do-hyun’s Best Roles: A Rising Star Whose Every Character Becomes a “Life Role”

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Lee Do-hyun has rapidly become one of the most compelling actors in Korean entertainment, with a filmography that reads like a highlight reel of modern K-dramas. From heartbreaking love stories to intense psychological thrillers, every role he touches turns into what fans call a “life character”—a performance so powerful, it becomes inseparable from his name. Below, we break down the best Lee Do-hyun dramas and movies that prove his unmatched versatility and star power.

Go Chung-myung in Hotel Del Luna (2019)

Lee Do-hyun first captured the public’s attention with his role as Go Chung-myung in Hotel Del Luna. Portraying the eternal first love of IU’s character, Jang Man-wol, Lee Do-hyun’s performance was brief but deeply emotional. As a firefly who stayed by Man-wol’s side for over 1,300 years, he gave viewers one of the most haunting portrayals of love and sacrifice in K-drama history. This role introduced fans to Lee Do-hyun’s impressive emotional range and made him a fan favorite despite being a supporting character.

Go Woo-young in 18 Again (2020)

18 again

Lee Do-hyun’s first lead role came in 18 Again, where he played the teenage version of a father who magically returns to his 18-year-old body. This project was a perfect fit for him, as he could draw on his real-life basketball experience for his role as a basketball prodigy. The drama showcased his ability to balance comedy, youthfulness, and emotional maturity. Crew members praised his talent during filming, with some joking that they wouldn’t get to see him in person again because he was destined for stardom.

Lee Eun-hyuk in Sweet Home (2020)

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In Netflix’s apocalyptic horror series Sweet Home, Lee Do-hyun played Lee Eun-hyuk, the intelligent and strategic survivor. His portrayal of a calm, calculating character with subtle vulnerability made him an instant fan favorite. This role demonstrated his ability to portray colder, more cerebral characters and helped solidify his international popularity. With Sweet Home Season 3 on the horizon, fans eagerly await his return to this global hit series.

Hwang Hee-tae in Youth of May (2021)

youth in may

Youth of May is one of Lee Do-hyun’s most emotionally resonant works, set against the backdrop of the Gwangju Uprising. His portrayal of Hwang Hee-tae was marked by a deep respect for the historical context and a heartfelt performance that moved audiences. His on-screen chemistry with co-star Go Min-si has been widely praised, with many fans considering them one of the best on-screen couples in K-drama history. This role showcased Lee Do-hyun’s ability to deliver nuanced and powerful performances rooted in real events.

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Joo Yeo-jeong in The Glory (2022–2023)

the glory behind the scene

In the hit Netflix revenge drama The Glory, Lee Do-hyun’s role as Joo Yeo-jeong brought him global recognition. His character—a kind-hearted plastic surgeon with a hidden streak of vengeance—was both warm and menacing. This layered performance captivated audiences and left many fans eagerly anticipating Lee Do-hyun’s potential to take on darker, more villainous roles in the future. The Glory marked a major milestone in his rising career.

Choi Kang-ho in The Good Bad Mother (2023)

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In The Good Bad Mother, Lee Do-hyun demonstrated exceptional versatility by portraying three very different versions of the same character: a prosecutor, a high schooler, and someone with the mindset of a 7-year-old. His seamless shifts in emotion and expression across these roles highlighted his unmatched acting depth. This role was widely praised as a masterclass in transformation and added another powerful credit to his growing filmography.

Bong-gil in Exhuma (2024)

Lee Do-hyun’s film debut in Exhuma revealed a darker, more intense side of his acting. Playing Bong-gil, a shaman, he delivered a gripping and explosive performance that earned him the Best New Actor award, even while serving in the military. His viral acceptance speech thanking his girlfriend, Lim Ji-yeon, added a personal touch that resonated with fans. Exhuma further cemented Lee Do-hyun’s status as a rising star and a reliable box office draw.

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With an impressive string of successes such as The Glory, The Good Bad Mother, and Exhuma all completed before his 2022 military enlistment, Lee Do-hyun’s career trajectory is nothing short of legendary. Now that he has been discharged, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate his next project and wonder which role will become his next unforgettable “life character.”

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