From supporting roles to a 'Next Generation Melo-king' of Korean cinema
In short: Lee Do-hyun didn't become an overnight sensation. His rise in the South Korean entertainment industry is a masterclass in steady progression, moving from minor character work to lead roles that earned him prestigious awards and critical acclaim across television and film.
Lee Do-hyun began his professional journey with a supporting role in 2017's 'Prison Playbook,' where he played the younger version of another actor's character. This early period was defined by building a presence in various genres, including romantic comedies like 'Still 17' (2018) and dark fantasies such as 'Hotel del Luna' (2019). His work during these years established his versatility before he transitioned into leading roles.
The turning point arrived in 2020 with the romantic comedy '18 Again.' This performance secured him major accolades, including Best New Actor at the 57th Baeksang Arts Awards and the 7th APAN Star Awards. He quickly diversified his portfolio by taking on cynical characters in Netflix's 'Sweet Home' (2020–2024) and historical melodramas like 'Youth of May' (2021), for which he was dubbed the "Next Generation Melo-king."
Lee’s career is marked by strategic collaborations, notably with director Ha Byung-hoon. His commitment to this partnership led him to choose 'Death's Game' as his final project before mandatory military service in 2023. After serving 21 months in the Air Force military band, he was discharged on May 13, 2025, continuing a trajectory that balances high-profile Netflix releases with critically acclaimed domestic dramas.
In addition to his acting career, Lee earned a degree from Chung-Ang University's Department of Film and Theater. His ability to navigate complex narratives—from the revenge-driven 'The Glory' (2022–2023) to the recent film 'Exhuma' (2024)—highlights a sophisticated understanding of character development that has made him a staple of modern Korean media.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Lee Do-hyun
- Also: Wikidata — Lee Do-hyun · CC0
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