Introduction
Lee Sung-Kyung is a well-known South Korean actress, singer, and model. She was born on August 10, 1990 in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea and is recognized for her versatile roles in different K-drama and films–most particularly in the genres of romance and medical dramas.
In this article, we’re going to look at seven K-dramas starring Lee Sung-Kyung and why you should watch them.
1. Flower of Queen
Flower of Queen is a compelling South Korean television series that aired in 2015, featuring Lee Sung-kyung in a significant role. The series follows Lee Soo-jung, who gives up her child for adoption after facing financial struggles. She changes her name to Rena Jung and returns to Korea as a successful but manipulative celebrity chef. The story explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and complex family relationships.
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Lee Sung-kyung plays Kang Yi-sol, Rena's biological daughter, who struggles with her own emotional turmoil and identity crisis. The mother-daughter relationship adds depth to the story, showing their growth against a backdrop of ambition and deceit.
The drama features a talented cast, including Kim Sung-ryung, Lee Jong-hyuk, and Yoon Park. Their performances bring authenticity to the melodrama, making it engaging for viewers. As a melodrama, Flower of Queen delves into intense emotional experiences, capturing the highs and lows of personal ambitions and family obligations.
The show also offers insights into South Korean culture, particularly in the culinary world and societal expectations surrounding success and family. This aspect can be appealing for viewers interested in cultural narratives beyond just entertainment.
Overall, Flower of Queen combines a gripping storyline with strong performances, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of melodramatic narratives.
2. Cheese in the Trap
Cheese in the Trap is a popular South Korean television series that aired from January to March 2016, adapted from a webtoon of the same name. Lee Sung Kyung's performance in this drama is a significant draw for viewers, showcasing her range and ability to portray complex characters.
Lee Sung Kyung plays Baek In-Ha, a character described as "hysterical, terrifying, and compelling" due to her troubled background and narcissistic traits. This complexity allows her to deliver a performance that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Critics have noted that while her portrayal can be over-the-top at times, she also has moments of genuine depth that highlight her acting prowess.
In-Ha's character adds significant tension and drama to the narrative, influencing the dynamics between the main characters, particularly with Hong Seol (played by Kim Go Eun) and Yoo Jung (played by Park Hae Jin). Her interactions often serve as catalysts for key plot developments, making her a pivotal figure in the storyline.
Many viewers have expressed that her character, despite being irritating at times, is memorable and contributes to the overall intrigue of the series. This duality in her character makes her performance a focal point of discussion among fans. Lee Sung Kyung's ability to evoke strong reactions from the audience, whether frustration or sympathy, demonstrates her skill as an actress in Cheese in the Trap.
3. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a beloved South Korean drama that aired from November 2016 to January 2017, featuring Lee Sung-kyung in the titular role. The series follows Kim Bok Joo, a collegiate weightlifter who navigates her athletic ambitions, friendships, and first love. It beautifully captures the struggles of young adults as they pursue their dreams while dealing with personal insecurities and societal expectations.
Lee Sung-kyung's portrayal of Bok Joo is both vibrant and relatable. She embodies a character who is strong yet vulnerable, showcasing her journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance. The dynamics between Bok Joo and her friends, as well as her evolving relationship with Jung Joon-hyung (played by Nam Joo-hyuk), highlight themes of friendship, loyalty, and love.
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The series is infused with humor, featuring comedic situations that arise from Bok Joo's interactions with her friends and love interests. From awkward encounters to lighthearted banter, the show balances emotional depth with laugh-out-loud moments. Unlike typical portrayals of athletes in dramas, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo provides a realistic view of the challenges faced by female athletes, addressing issues like body image, self-esteem, and the pressures of competition.
The chemistry between Lee Sung-kyung and Nam Joo-hyuk is palpable, making their romance feel genuine and engaging. Their playful interactions evolve into a heartfelt relationship that captivates audiences. The drama promotes themes of perseverance, friendship, and self-love, encouraging viewers to embrace their individuality and pursue their passions despite obstacles.
4. Dr. Romantic 2
Dr. Romantic 2 is a highly recommended series featuring Lee Sung Kyung. In this drama, Lee plays Cha Eun Jae, a book-smart doctor who struggles with a fear of surgery. Her character's journey of overcoming personal and professional challenges is compelling and relatable, showcasing her growth as both a doctor and an individual.
Critics have praised Lee Sung Kyung's performance as one of her best roles to date. Her chemistry with co-star Ahn Hyo Seop, who plays Seo Woo Jin, adds depth to the narrative, making their interactions engaging and enjoyable. The dynamic between the two characters evolves throughout the series, providing a mix of tension and camaraderie that enhances the viewing experience.
The series focuses on the medical and political aspects of hospital life, rather than solely on romantic entanglements. This allows for a more nuanced exploration of the characters' professional lives and personal growth, making it appealing to viewers who appreciate character-driven stories.
Dr. Romantic 2 has received positive reviews for its storytelling and character arcs, with Lee Sung Kyung's portrayal highlighted as a standout. Her performance in the series earned her recognition, including a Best Actor award at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards, further solidifying her talent and the impact of her role in the series.
5. Call it Love
Call It Love is a 2023 South Korean television series that showcases Lee Sung-kyung in a compelling role. The series follows Shim Woo-joo, whose life unravels after discovering her father's affair and losing her family home to his mistress. As she seeks revenge, she unexpectedly falls in love with Han Dong-jin, the son of her father's mistress. This complex narrative intertwines themes of betrayal, love, and emotional healing.
Lee Sung-kyung's portrayal of Woo-joo is both nuanced and relatable. The character grapples with deep emotional scars from her family issues while navigating her feelings for Dong-jin. Her journey from revenge to love adds layers to her character, allowing viewers to connect with her struggles and growth throughout the series.
The series delves into heavy themes such as grief, betrayal, and the quest for identity. As Woo-joo confronts her past and her feelings for Dong-jin, the emotional stakes rise, providing viewers with a rich and poignant viewing experience.
The dynamic between Lee Sung-kyung and Kim Young-kwang (who plays Dong-jin) is electric. Their evolving relationship is marked by tension and vulnerability, drawing viewers into their emotional rollercoaster. Produced by Disney+, Call It Love boasts high production values, including beautiful cinematography and a well-crafted soundtrack that complements the story's emotional tone.
6. About Time
About Time is a compelling series featuring Lee Sung Kyung, known for its unique premise and her standout performance. Lee plays Choi Mikaela, an aspiring musical actress with the supernatural ability to see people's lifespans. Her singing talent is a significant draw, with viewers praising her beautiful voice, which is central to her character.
Lee's portrayal of Mikaela showcases her acting range, with many fans appreciating her emotional depth and connection to the character. The show's premise is intriguing, as Mikaela's ability to see the time left in people's lives leads to fascinating plot developments and moral dilemmas about life and death.
The chemistry between Lee Sung Kyung and her co-star, Lee Sang Yoon, is described as strong and engaging, particularly in the early episodes. This keeps viewers invested in their relationship and the overall story.
While the series starts strong, some viewers note that it becomes repetitive and predictable as it progresses. However, the emotional moments and character relationships, especially Mikaela's friendships, provide a wholesome aspect that many find enjoyable. Despite mixed reviews, Lee Sung Kyung's performance and the unique concept make About Time a noteworthy watch for many viewers.
7. The Doctors
The Doctors is a South Korean medical drama that aired from June to August 2016, featuring Lee Sung-kyung in a key supporting role. The series follows Yoo Hye-jung, portrayed by Park Shin-hye, a headstrong girl with a troubled past who becomes a successful neurosurgeon. The narrative explores her transformation from a rebellious teenager to a compassionate doctor, highlighting her struggles and growth throughout her medical career.
Lee Sung-kyung plays Jin Seo-woo, an ambitious and talented doctor navigating the challenges of the medical field alongside her peers. Her interactions with Hye-jung and other characters provide insight into the complexities of personal and professional relationships within a high-pressure environment. The series showcases the evolution of Seo-woo as she learns to balance ambition with empathy.
The show delves into serious themes such as redemption, mentorship, and the emotional toll of being in the medical profession. It effectively portrays the struggles doctors face, both personally and professionally, making it relatable for viewers interested in the realities of healthcare.
The chemistry among the cast, especially between Park Shin-hye and Kim Rae-won (who plays Hong Ji-hong), enhances the emotional stakes of the story. Lee Sung-kyung's interactions with them contribute to the overall dynamic, creating engaging moments that resonate with audiences.
With well-crafted cinematography and direction, The Doctors offers visually appealing scenes that enhance the storytelling. The series promotes themes of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of mentorship, encouraging viewers to pursue their dreams while emphasizing compassion and understanding in their relationships with others.
Conclusion
Lee Sung-Kyung has shown her talent in many different K-dramas. She's great at playing all kinds of roles, from doctors to athletes to women looking for love. In these seven shows, we see how good she is at bringing characters to life. Whether it's a funny romance or a serious medical drama, Lee Sung-Kyung always gives a great performance. If you like K-dramas or want to see Lee Sung-Kyung act, these shows are a great place to start. They show off her skills and give you a taste of different types of Korean TV stories.
Image Sources:
https://parisonheavens.wordpress.com/2016/07/13/drama-doctors-character-description-lee-sung-kyung/
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8083832/
https://www.soompi.com/article/1564290wpp/watch-lee-sung-kyung-finds-unexpected-romance-with-kim-young-kwang-in-new-drama-call-it-love
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/67976275619617283/
https://kpopherald.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=201701131759471417328_2
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/628815166693124747/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sY51CyXzEfM&ab_channel=ScreenMoviesandDrama
