Lee Do-hyun, one of South Korea’s most promising young actors, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with his stellar performances and undeniable charm. His recent role in the Netflix series The Glory has further solidified his status as a rising star in the entertainment industry. Lee’s journey to stardom, however, was not without its challenges. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and an unwavering commitment to his craft.
Early Life and Interest in Acting
Born on April 11, 1995, in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, Lee Do-hyun, whose real name is Lim Dong-hyun, grew up in a modest family. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in the arts, particularly in acting. Despite his shy demeanor, Lee found solace and joy in performing, often participating in school plays and local theater productions.
His passion for acting led him to pursue a degree in theater and film at Chung-Ang University, one of South Korea’s top institutions for the arts. During his time at university, Lee honed his craft, learning the nuances of acting and developing a deep understanding of character portrayal. His professors and peers quickly recognized his talent, predicting a bright future for the young actor.
Breaking into the Industry
Lee Do-hyun’s journey into the entertainment industry began with small, uncredited roles and bit parts in various television dramas. His first significant role came in 2017, when he was cast as the younger version of Jung Kyung-ho’s character in the popular drama Prison Playbook. Though his screen time was limited, Lee’s performance caught the attention of viewers and industry professionals alike, marking the beginning of his rise in the world of K-dramas.
In 2018, Lee landed a supporting role in the fantasy romance drama Thirty But Seventeen (also known as Still 17). Playing the character of Dong Hae-bum, Lee showcased his ability to blend comedic timing with emotional depth, further establishing himself as a versatile actor. This role was a stepping stone that led to more substantial opportunities.
The Breakthrough: Hotel Del Luna
Lee Do-hyun’s breakout role came in 2019 with the hit drama Hotel Del Luna. Starring alongside IU and Yeo Jin-goo, Lee played the role of Go Chung-myung, a noble and tragic character whose love story with IU’s character left a lasting impact on viewers. His portrayal of the loyal and heartbroken soldier was widely praised, and the show’s immense popularity catapulted Lee into the spotlight.
Hotel Del Luna was a turning point in Lee’s career. The drama’s success not only brought him widespread recognition but also showcased his ability to handle complex and emotionally charged roles. His chemistry with IU and his poignant performance resonated with audiences, earning him a nomination for Best New Actor at the 2019 Korea Drama Awards.
Continued Success and Leading Roles
Following the success of Hotel Del Luna, Lee Do-hyun continued to build on his newfound fame with a series of impressive performances. In 2020, he starred in the critically acclaimed drama 18 Again, a Korean adaptation of the American film 17 Again. In this series, Lee played the role of a middle-aged man who finds himself back in his 18-year-old body, allowing him to explore themes of regret, redemption, and family. His portrayal of a father struggling to reconnect with his family was both heartwarming and deeply moving, earning him widespread acclaim and several awards, including Best New Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards.
In the same year, Lee also took on a significant role in the horror drama Sweet Home, based on the popular webtoon of the same name. Playing Lee Eun-hyuk, a calm and intelligent medical student who becomes the de facto leader of a group of survivors, Lee once again demonstrated his versatility as an actor. The series was a massive success, both domestically and internationally, further establishing Lee as a rising star.
Challenges and Struggles
Despite his rapid rise to fame, Lee Do-hyun’s journey was not without its challenges. The pressures of the entertainment industry, coupled with the expectations placed on him after his early successes, took a toll on the young actor. He has spoken openly about the struggles he faced, including the fear of being typecast and the constant need to prove himself with each new role.
Lee’s determination to avoid being pigeonholed led him to carefully select his projects, seeking out roles that would challenge him and allow him to grow as an actor. This approach has been instrumental in his continued success, as he has consistently taken on diverse roles that showcase his range and depth.
Recent Success: The Glory
In 2022, Lee Do-hyun took on one of his most challenging roles to date in the Netflix series The Glory. The series, written by renowned screenwriter Kim Eun-sook, tells the story of a woman seeking revenge against those who tormented her during her youth. Lee plays the role of Joo Yeo-jeong, a seemingly charming and carefree man who harbors a dark secret and becomes entwined in the protagonist’s quest for vengeance.
The Glory marked another high point in Lee’s career, as his performance received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. His portrayal of a character with a dual nature—kind and supportive on the surface, but with deep, hidden pain—demonstrated his ability to handle complex and layered roles. The series’ success on Netflix has further solidified Lee’s status as one of South Korea’s top young actors, and his performance in The Glory has left fans eagerly anticipating his future projects.
Future Aspirations and Legacy
As Lee Do-hyun continues to navigate his career, he remains focused on challenging himself with each new role. He has expressed a desire to explore a variety of genres and to work with directors and writers who push him to new heights as an actor. Lee’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to take risks have earned him a reputation as a serious and talented actor who is not afraid to step outside of his comfort zone.
Beyond his acting career, Lee has also shown interest in giving back to the community, participating in charity events and using his platform to raise awareness about important social issues. His humility and down-to-earth personality have endeared him to fans, who admire not only his talent but also his character.
Lee Do-hyun’s journey from a young theater student to a leading actor in one of Netflix’s most talked-about series is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and passion for acting. With each role, he continues to push the boundaries of his talent, earning accolades and the admiration of audiences around the world. As he looks to the future, there is no doubt that Lee Do-hyun will continue to shine brightly, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Korean drama and beyond.