Lee Jun-young emerges as breakout star of Netflix romance series 'Melo Movie'

By KTimes

Actor Lee Jun-young, who showcased his versatility across various genres and roles regardless of character type, has solidified his status as a rising star in romance dramas with his performance in Netflix's "Melo Movie," which premiered last Friday.

In the series, Lee takes on the lead role of Hong Si-jun, an aspiring composer who considers himself a genius but remains unknown to the world. The romantic drama portrays the lives of young adults navigating love, dreams and personal trauma while finding inspiration in one another.

Lee's performance captivated global audiences with its emotional depth, particularly in scenes depicting Hong’s breakup with his longtime girlfriend Son Ju-a, played by Jeon So-nee, and their unexpected reunion after she becomes a screenwriter.

His portrayal of heartbreak, hope and inner conflict resonated with viewers, sparking widespread engagement online.

The on-screen chemistry between Lee and co-star Choi Woo-shik, who plays Hong's close friend Go Gyeom, further heightened the show’s appeal. From the subtle excitement of rekindled romance to the intensity of emotional confrontations, Lee demonstrated his improved acting skills.

Lee also contributed to the series' soundtrack, singing the OST "Under Sunset," adding an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Having debuted as an actor in the 2017 drama "Avengers Social Club," Lee quickly gained recognition for his consistent performance in "Goodbye to Goodbye" (2018), which earned him the Best New Actor award at the MBC Drama Awards that year.

Lee also impressed audiences with his villainous roles in Netflix's "D.P." and "Mask Girl," as well as the film "Brave Citizen" (2023). Most recently, he made a special appearance as King Sejong in the historical drama "The Queen Who Crowns," marking his first foray into the historical genre.

With "Melo Movie" becoming a global hit, Lee has once again proven his versatility and potential as one of the industry’s most promising talents.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.