The Top 10 Lee Byung-hun Films and TV Series, Ranked

South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun, known for his captivating performances on both the big and small screens, has built a successful entertainment career that has spanned over three decades. His collaborations with acclaimed director Kim Jee-woon and his charming good looks have made him a sought-after talent in South Korea since his debut in 1991's Asphalt My Hometown. Alongside his singing and modeling endeavors, Lee has solidified his reputation as one of the most reliable and talented actors of his generation.

Lee's versatility and talent have garnered him international recognition, especially with his recent work in popular Netflix series like Squid Game and The Magnificent Seven. His ability to excel in a variety of genres, from K-dramas to action blockbusters, Korean Westerns, and historical epics, solidifies him as one of the most versatile actors in the industry. Looking ahead, with projects like The Match and the American-produced movie, I Believe in a Thing Called Love, Lee continues to showcase his dedication and passion for his craft.

All In (2003)

Lee stars as Kim In-ha in the early 2000s drama about gambling and love.

Lee Byung-hun as Kim In-ha and Song Hye-kyo as Min Su-yeon / Sister Angela in All In. - Lee stars as Kim In-ha in the early 2000s drama about gambling and love. - All In (2003)

Partially inspired by the real-life experiences of professional poker player Jimmy Cha, All In features Lee portraying a casino gambler named Kim In-ha. Despite his questionable connections to the criminal underworld, Lee's character reveals a more tender side through his relationship with Min Su-yeon (portrayed by Song Hye-kyo). All In is considered a standout in Lee's body of work as it delves into the intricate dynamics of love amidst the presence of money and other temptations. Striking a balance between a charming persona and the necessary ruthlessness of a gangster film, All In serves as an early showcase of Lee's versatility in acting.

The Good the Bad the Weird (2008)

Lee takes on the Lee Van Cleef role of the Bad in his second collaboration with Kim Jee-woon.

The Bad aiming a rifle at civilians while smiling and revealing the scar on his face in The Good the Bad the Weird - Lee takes on the Lee Van Cleef role of the Bad in his second collaboration with Kim Jee-woon. - The Good the Bad the Weird (2008)

The Good the Bad the Weird, helmed by director Kim Jee-woon, is a Korean Western that cleverly pays tribute to the iconic Sergio Leone film, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. This movie marks the second collaboration between Lee and Kim, delivering outstanding performances from the main cast. What sets this film apart is its unique blend of classic Western elements intertwined with thought-provoking political undertones, prompting viewers to reconsider their perspectives on Eastern Asian affairs. Moreover, the film strikes a perfect balance between comedy, action, and deeper thematic elements.

Squid Game (2021)

Lee stars as Front Man / Hwang In-ho in Netflix's Squid Game.

Lee Byung-hun as Front Man in Squid Game. - Lee stars as Front Man / Hwang In-ho in Netflix's Squid Game. - Squid Game (2021)

With the success of Squid Game's first season, Squid Game season 2 is expected to maintain the thrilling momentum of the South Korean series. The show, inspired by the Korean game Squid and creator Hwang Dong-hyuk's personal financial struggles, follows 456 contestants facing financial difficulties as they participate in deadly children's games for a chance to win the ₩45.6 billion prize. Alongside its exploration of morality and ethics, Squid Game delves into themes of class inequality and capitalism through the character of the Front Man.

Lee's Front Man/Hwang In-ho, the highly intelligent winner of the 2015 Squid Games, leads the enigmatic Masked Men who control the game. The Squid Game twist involving Front Man adds a new layer to the already complex thriller. In the first season, it is revealed that Front Man is the brother of detective Hwang Jun-ho, hinting at the involvement of former or current law enforcement agents in the creation and operation of Squid Game. Lee's captivating performance sets the stage for potential future twists and revelations.

A Bittersweet Life (2005)

Lee plays the hitman, Sun woo, in his first collaboration with Kim Jee-woon.

Lee Byung-hun as Sun woo aims a pistol at someone off-screen in A Bittersweet Life. - Lee plays the hitman, Sun woo, in his first collaboration with Kim Jee-woon. - A Bittersweet Life (2005)

The debut collaboration between Lee and Kim, the neo-noir action drama A Bittersweet Life follows Lee as Kim Sun-woo, a tough enforcer for a dangerous crime boss in South Korea. Struggling with the moral implications of his latest assignment, the film is a visually stunning piece with well-executed action sequences, a captivating musical score, and powerful performances by the main actors. Through the characters of Kim Sun-woo and his unfaithful lover Moon Hee-soo, portrayed by Shin Min-ah, A Bittersweet Life delves into themes of love and isolation.

Beautiful Days (2001)

Lee stars as Lee Min-chul in the first installment of director Lee Jang-soo's Heaven trilogy.

Lee Byung-hun as Lee Min-chul in Beautiful Days. - Lee stars as Lee Min-chul in the first installment of director Lee Jang-soo's Heaven trilogy. - Beautiful Days (2001)

Lee Min-chul, an aspiring musician who studied abroad in America, returns to South Korea in the K-drama Beautiful Days. The show's popularity, even two decades after its debut, is attributed to its soft cinematography, melodrama, and overlapping storylines that bring unexpected interactions among the characters. Additionally, the high ratings, stellar acting performances, and subversive writing, which depict some protagonists committing serious crimes, paved the way for two sequels in the Heaven trilogy.

Masquerade (2012)

Lee plays the dual roles of King Gwanghae / Beggar Ha-sun in the 2012 period piece.

Lee Byung-hun as King Gwanghae in a scene from Masquerade. - Lee plays the dual roles of King Gwanghae / Beggar Ha-sun in the 2012 period piece. - Masquerade (2012)

In "Our Blues" (2022), Masquerade portrays Lee as a beggar named Ha-sun who undergoes a life-altering experience in the Joseon Dynasty. Chosen to impersonate the nation's ruler, King Gwanghae, due to his striking resemblance to the monarch, Ha-sun initially holds contempt for the wealthy elite of the country. However, as he immerses himself in the role, he gradually loses touch with his true self and ethical values, eventually believing himself to be the actual king. Through Lee's exceptional dual portrayal of the beggar and the monarch, Masquerade delves deeply into themes of identity, power dynamics, and social class divides.

Lee stars as the truck merchant, Lee Dong-seok, in the critically acclaimed K-drama.

Lee Byung-hun as Lee Dong-seok in Our Blues. - Lee stars as the truck merchant, Lee Dong-seok, in the critically acclaimed K-drama. - Our Blues (2022)

Our Blues is distinguished by its unique narrative structure that intricately weaves together the stories of its ensemble cast, depicting the highs and lows of life on Jeju Island at different stages. Critics have lauded the series for its authenticity in both writing and performances. Divided into ten parts, each segment of Our Blues delves into the experiences of individuals in the early, middle, and later stages of life, offering a poignant yet enduring portrayal of slice-of-life in K-drama.

Joint Security Area (2000)

Lee's breakout role was as Sergeant Lee Soo-hyeok in the 2000 mystery thriller.

Lee Byung-hun as Sgt. Lee Soo-hyuk in Joint Security Area. - Lee's breakout role was as Sergeant Lee Soo-hyeok in the 2000 mystery thriller. - Joint Security Area (2000)

Adapted from Park Sang-yeon's novel, Joint Security Area revolves around the enigmatic deaths of two North Korean guards at the border between North and South Korea. The investigation calls for the impartial assistance of Swedish and Swiss troops to unravel the mystery. The film follows Sergeant Lee Soo-hyeok, portrayed by Lee, a South Korean soldier injured during the incident, as he faces intense questioning after his attempted escape to South Korea. Anchored by stellar performances from Lee, Song Kang-ho, and Lee Young-ae, this suspenseful thriller marks the inaugural collaboration between Lee and Song.

Mr. Sunshine (2018)

Furthermore, upon its release in South Korean cinemas in 2000, Joint Security Area became the highest-grossing South Korean film, propelling Lee into the spotlight as one of the nation's top actors. The film's exploration of themes such as deception and murder within the context of North and South Korean politics is masterfully portrayed through the genre of a mystery thriller, challenging viewers to question their perceptions. With a total of eighteen wins and nominations, including a prestigious Golden Berlin Bear nomination, Joint Security Area continues to be a standout in Lee's filmography.

Lee stars as Eugene Choi in the historical romance melodrama.

Lee Byung-hun as Eugene Choi and Kim Tae-ri as Go Ae-shin in Mr. Sunshine. - Lee stars as Eugene Choi in the historical romance melodrama. - Mr. Sunshine (2018)

Mr. Sunshine follows the journey of Lee as Eugene Choi, a slave born in the Joseon period, who escapes to the United States during the 1871 Shinmiyangyo incident and joins the Marine Corps. Returning to Korea during a pivotal moment in its history, Eugene falls in love with noblewoman Go Ae-shin, leading to a forbidden romance. The series skillfully combines modern sensibilities with the strict beliefs of the era, delving into themes of class disparities and political turmoil.

I Saw The Devil (2010)

Lee delivers a critically-acclaimed performance in his third collaboration with Kim Jee-woon.

Lee Byung-hun as Kim Soo-hyun looks around a corner in I Saw the Devil. - Lee delivers a critically-acclaimed performance in his third collaboration with Kim Jee-woon. - I Saw The Devil (2010)

I Saw the Devil, the third collaboration between Lee and director Kim, is known for its moody atmosphere and gripping story that revolves around a tale of revenge. Starring Choi Min-sik (Oldboy), the film follows Lee, a secret agent who goes beyond the law to seek justice against Choi's character, a serial killer responsible for a series of brutal murders. What sets I Saw the Devil apart is its relentless delivery of violence and depravity, making it a highly effective thriller and a standout in Lee Byung-hun's filmography.

Editor's P/S:

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Lee Byung-hun's illustrious career, highlighting his versatility and talent as an actor. The writer showcases Lee's diverse roles, from charming gamblers to ruthless gangsters, and his ability to excel in various genres. The inclusion of tables summarizing Lee's notable works adds structure and allows readers to quickly grasp his range. However, the article could benefit from more in-depth analysis of Lee's performances and the significance of his collaborations with directors like Kim Jee-woon.

Overall, this article serves as a testament to Lee Byung-hun's status as one of the most respected and accomplished actors in South Korea. It effectively showcases his journey, from his early days to his international success, and will undoubtedly appeal to fans and those interested in Korean cinema.