If we were to ask each other about our favorite Korean actors, Lee Jong Suk would surely be one of the first names to come to mind. Jong Suk is a seasoned actor loved not just for his versatility and smart drama choices, but also for his charming personality—and of course, his face card never declines! He has that unique visual appeal and star presence that we can’t help but admire. And it’s not just Koreans who feel this way; he’s adored globally as one of the most beloved Hallyu actors!
But if we’re talking about rising stars capturing hearts lately, then Choo Young Woo definitely deserves a mention. He started with small roles and gradually climbed the ladder, becoming a second lead, and now making his mark as a male lead. Both of his dramas this year have found success both in South Korea and internationally, proving he’s one of the next big names to watch out for! Since we’re big fans of both, let’s take a look at some of their iconic and must-watch dramas that you shouldn’t miss:
Must-Watch Dramas From Everyone’s Favorite Leading Man and Rising Actor
“Pinocchio“
One of the most unique and memorable K-Dramas out there, “Pinocchio” stars Lee Jong Suk as a young man with a traumatic past caused by false media reporting. He later becomes a rookie reporter and crosses paths with a girl who has “Pinocchio Syndrome”—a condition that makes her hiccup whenever she tells a lie. Together, they grow as journalists and work to uncover a powerful conspiracy within the news industry.
What makes “Pinocchio” a must-watch isn’t just its intriguing storyline, but also the amazing chemistry and performances of Lee Jong Suk and Park Shin Hye. The drama takes a clever and emotional look at media ethics, the power of the press, and the importance of truth, all wrapped in a romance-mystery hybrid that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
“Doctor Stranger“
Ready for another intense drama? In “Doctor Stranger,” Lee Jong Suk plays Park Hoon, a genius surgeon who was kidnapped and raised in North Korea along with his father. After a dangerous escape to South Korea, he starts working at a top hospital while desperately trying to reunite with the woman who looks exactly like his first love, only for her to insist she doesn’t know him.
This drama is a thrilling mix of romance, politics, and medical tension. Lee Jong Suk delivers a strong performance full of emotion, making Park Hoon a deeply compelling character. From suspenseful surgery scenes to love triangles and espionage-level twists, “Doctor Stranger” is one rollercoaster ride you won’t want to get off!
“While You Were Sleeping“
One of the most beloved K-Dramas of the past decade is the fantasy romance “While You Were Sleeping,” starring Lee Jong Suk as a rookie prosecutor who begins having prophetic dreams, alongside a young reporter played by Suzy. Their dreams show each other in life-threatening situations, and together, they team up to prevent these tragedies from happening by changing the course of fate.
This is one of those dramas that has everything—mystery, heartfelt storytelling, and just the right touch of supernatural fantasy. Lee Jong Suk is absolutely swoon-worthy as the serious yet sweet prosecutor who quietly becomes a hero in everyday life. His chemistry with Suzy is so natural that it made hearts flutter all over the world!
“Police University“
Next up is a campus-themed drama that gives us a fun mix of youth, action, and growth—”Police University!” In this drama, Choo Young Woo takes on a strong supporting role as a top student who crosses paths with a former hacker-turned-freshman. While he isn’t the main lead, he stands out for his composed, slightly competitive, and principled personality, earning him scene-stealing moments throughout the series!
This drama brings together youthful energy, crime-solving teamwork, and campus camaraderie as the students work their way toward becoming future police officers. Watching Choo Young Woo here already shows his potential to be one of the next big names in the industry. His cool demeanor and budding romance even gave us a serious case of second-lead syndrome!
“The Tale of Lady Ok“
One of the best K-Dramas of the year, “The Tale of Lady Ok,” marks Choo Young Woo’s first leading role in a major television series—and he delivered in a big way! He plays a dual role: one as a masked storyteller willing to do anything for the woman he loves, and another as the son of a magistrate who shares the same face. Set during the Joseon Dynasty, the story follows a runaway slave who assumes the identity of a noblewoman, sparking a tale of justice, revenge, and hidden identities.
This historical revenge melodrama gave Choo Young Woo the spotlight he truly deserves. His performance is full of emotional depth and intensity, showing just how far he’s grown as an actor. The show is packed with rich period detail, political intrigue, and fast-paced storytelling. You’ll be hooked by the unexpected twists and rooting for the characters until the very end.
Can’t get enough of Lee Jong Suk and Choo Young Woo? You can watch their hit shows right now on KOCOWA+ with multiple subtitle options!
