The multi-hyphenated Lee Jun Ho’s charisma and versatility are often spoken in the same breath. From dominating the stage to captivating audiences on the silver screen, he is the proverbial king of hearts, winning over fans with his riveting performances.
As the acclaimed actor turns 34 on January 25, we spotlight five Lee Junho dramas that have captured viewers’ hearts and showcased his dynamic presence. Whether depicting the pains of love or navigating complex emotional labyrinths, Jun Ho has delivered memorably across genres.
The Red Sleeve
A royal love story unfolds with heartache and passion in the historical drama “The Red Sleeve.” Lee Jun Ho plays the dashing Crown Prince Yi San, who finds himself bewitched by a young court maid, Deok Im (Le See Young). Despite his high status, Yi San’s advances are continuously spurned by the fiercely independent Deok Im, who cherishes her freedom over the allure of palace life. Their love story is poignant, marked by political realities and personal choices, leading to a tale that is anything but a fairytale ending. This drama stands out for its heartfelt storytelling and strong lead performances.
Where to Watch: Viki
King The Land
This romantic comedy, “King The Land,” brings a story of unexpected love to life. Lee Junho plays Gu Won, the stylish General Manager of King Hotel, who is known for his aversion to smiles. His belief that smiles often hide deceit is challenged when he encounters Sa Rang (YoonA), a hotel concierge with a contagious smile and sunny disposition. What transpires is a breezy narrative filled with charming banter and on-screen magic between the two leads, striking a chord with fans of the genre.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Rain Or Shine
In “Rain or Shine,” Jun Ho portrays Lee Kang Do, whose aspiring athletic career is crushed after a tragic accident at a mall incapacitates him and claims his father’s life. Burdened by debt and a traumatic disorder, Kang Do is a poignant embodiment of lost dreams and resilience. His path crosses with Ha Moon Soo (Won Jin Ah), who survives the same calamity and is haunted by her own guilt. Together, they find a powerful and therapeutic connection, navigating the difficult aftermath of their shared trauma.
Where to Watch: Viki
Wok of Love
The kitchen heats up in “Wok of Love” as Lee Jun Ho’s character, Seo Poong, a talented chef, finds his life in disarray after losing his job and discovering his wife’s betrayal. The action moves to a forsaken Chinese restaurant led by the unlikely partner Doo Chil Sung (Jang Hyuk) and a newfound ally in Dan Sae Woo (Jung Ryeo Won), a disposed heiress. As Poong strives to reinvent the restaurant, viewers are treated to a delicious blend of culinary mastery, romance, and the forming of an endearing bromance.
Where To Watch: Viki
Good Manager
Comedy and corporate antics come together in “Good Manager,” where Lee Jun Ho faces off with Namgoong Min’s Kim Seong Ryong, an accountant skilled in the art of financial trickery. When Seo Yul (Lee Jun Ho), a former prosecutor turned finance director, steps in, a clash of ethics ensues. Out of these clashes comes an unlikely friendship, as the two join forces facing workplace crises. The show is a delightful mix of humor and camaraderie.
Where To Watch: Viki
In these dramas, Jun Ho continuously proves his adaptability and depth as an actor. He captures a wide range of emotions, from the debilitating weight of past traumas to the lighter moments of comedic relief. As he celebrates another year of life and artistry, these five dramas are a testament not only to his broad acting range but also to the compelling narrative spaces South Korean drama has carved out in the global entertainment landscape. Whether you’re a longstanding fan or a curious newcomer, these selected works offer a window into Lee Jun Ho’s remarkable talent.
