top of page
Search

6 Must-Watch Lee Do Hyun Dramas Before His Next Release

(Image via X/@LDH_Update).
(Image via X/@LDH_Update).

Lee Do Hyun is back from military service! The talented actor enlisted in 2023, shortly after wrapping up his role in The Good Bad Mother on August 14. After completing his mandatory service, he returned on May 13, 2025. While he hasn't yet announced his next project, fans eagerly await his return and are curious to see what role he will take on next. As we wait with bated breath, here are 6 must-watch Lee Do Hyun dramas to enjoy before his next release.



1. The Good Bad Mother (2023)


A still from The Good Bad Mother (Image via JTBC).
A still from The Good Bad Mother (Image via JTBC).

Lee Do Hyun stars as Choi Kang Ho, a cold and no-nonsense prosecutor who shares a strained relationship with his mother, Jin Young Soon (Ra Mi Ran), a single parent who raised him with tough love. After a devastating accident leaves him with the mental capacity of a child and confined to a wheelchair, the two are forced to confront their past and rebuild their bond. This emotional drama is a heartfelt exploration of family, forgiveness, and healing—and yes, it will make you cry. So keep the tissues close.


Check out our interview with actor Josh Newton from the series!





2. The Glory (2022–2023)


Lee Do Hyun's solo poster for The Glory (Image via Netflix).
Lee Do Hyun's solo poster for The Glory (Image via Netflix).

This gripping revenge thriller is headlined by Hallyu star Song Hye Kyo, with Lee Do Hyun playing Joo Yeo Jeong, a compassionate plastic surgeon who becomes an anchor of emotional support and a key accomplice in Moon Dong Eun’s (Song Hye Kyo) calculated plan for vengeance. While he helps her confront her tormentors, Joo Yeo Jeong harbors a dark past of his own, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline.


Bonus: Lee Do Hyun met his real-life girlfriend, Lim Ji Yeon, on the set - she played the chilling antagonist, Park Yeon Jin.


3. Youth of May (2021)


The poster for Youth Of May (Image via KBS).
The poster for Youth Of May (Image via KBS).

A deeply moving and poignant love story set against the backdrop of the 1980 Gwangju Uprising - one of South Korea’s most significant historical events. Lee Do Hyun portrays Hwang Hee Tae, a bright but troubled medical student who falls in love with Kim Myung Hee (Go Min Si), a dedicated nurse. As their romance blossoms amid political unrest and looming tragedy, Youth of May delivers a heartfelt narrative of love, sacrifice, and fate. Fair warning: this one will have you crying buckets as well.



4. Melancholia (2021)


The poster for Melancholia (Image via tvN.)
The poster for Melancholia (Image via tvN.)

Lee Do Hyun takes on the role of Baek Seung Yoo, a misunderstood student who appears to struggle academically - until Ji Yoon Soo (Im Soo Jung), a brilliant math teacher, recognizes his hidden genius and encourages him to reach his potential. Their innocent, supportive interactions spark rumors and controversy, ultimately leading to Ji Yoon Soo’s dismissal from Ahseong High School. Years later, the two reunite as adults and join forces to uncover and expose the deep-rooted corruption within the school. An intriguing drama that blends intellect, redemption, and quiet rebellion.



5. Sweet Home (2020–2024)


Lee Do Hyun in a still from Sweet Home (Image via Netflix).
Lee Do Hyun in a still from Sweet Home (Image via Netflix).

Gory, intense, and utterly gripping, Sweet Home is a genre-bending apocalyptic horror drama that stands out from the usual roles we’ve seen Lee Do Hyun take on. As part of a strong ensemble cast - including Song Kang, Go Min Si, Lee Si Young, Lee Jin Wook, and Lee Eugene - Lee Do Hyun plays a key role in this adrenaline-fueled survival story where monstrous creatures suddenly invade humanity's world. With high-stakes action, emotional depth, and a fight to protect what's left of humanity, this three-season thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat.


Fun fact: Lee Do Hyun and Go Min Si play siblings in Sweet Home - a fun twist, especially for fans who’ve seen them as romantic leads in Youth of May!



6. 18 Again (2020)


The poster for 18 Again (Image via JTBC).
The poster for 18 Again (Image via JTBC).

An official adaptation of the American film 17 Again (starring Zac Efron and the late Matthew Perry), 18 Again offers a heartwarming twist on second chances. Lee Do Hyun shines as Hong Dae Young, a former high school basketball star who gave up his dreams to marry his pregnant girlfriend, Jung Da Jung, and raise their twins. Years later, their marriage is strained, filled with arguments and the looming threat of divorce. Longing for a do-over, Dae Young magically transforms back into his 18-year-old self—and gains a new perspective on his life, his choices, and his family. This touching drama is both funny and emotional, reminding us to cherish our loved ones and the time we have with them.


Bonus News for All Lee Do Hyun Fans! Exciting times ahead—The Glory star has officially announced his 2025 fan meeting tour, Re: DO HYUN. The tour will kick off in Seoul on June 14 and 15, before making its way across Asia with stops in Jakarta, Osaka, Tokyo, Taipei, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Manila. Fans are also hoping for additional dates in the U.S. and Europe. In even more exciting news, Lee Do Hyun is reportedly in talks to star in a new drama by the acclaimed Hong Sisters, with the potential of reuniting with his Youth of May co-star, Go Min Si. The dramas mentioned above are currently available to stream on Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney+. Which one are you planning to watch next? Let us know in the comments below!




bottom of page