Korean actor Lee Chae Min has been making waves in the drama industry with his standout performances, especially in the recent Netflix original, Hierarchy. While Hierarchy has certainly put him on the map, Lee Chae Min’s career includes several other notable dramas that showcase his versatility and talent. Let’s dive into some of these dramas and explore what makes them worth watching.
Lee Chae Min’s Breakthrough Role in Hierarchy
Lee Chae Min gained significant attention after starring in the drama Hierarchy, which premiered on Netflix on June 7, 2024. Directed by Bae Hyun Jin, Lee Chae Min excelled in his role as Kang Ha, a character marked by his determination and complex motivations. Despite being a relatively new face in the industry, his performance in Hierarchy has cemented his status as a promising actor, potentially a future star in the Korean drama scene, often referred to as chungmuro actors.
Other Must-Watch Dramas Featuring Lee Chae Min
1. High Class
Lee Chae Min made his debut in the drama High Class (2021). This drama delves into the hidden lies and hypocrisy within the lives of elite women in the top 0.1 percent of society. Directed by Choi Byeong Gil, Lee Chae Min plays Ahn Seung Jo, the secretary to an ambitious businesswoman named Nam Ji Sun, portrayed by Kim Ji Soo. The drama provides a gripping look at the complex dynamics of power and privilege in high society.
2. Love All Play
In Love All Play, which aired on KBS2 in 2022, Lee Chae Min took on the role of Lee Ji Ho, a badminton athlete. The series follows the journey of a mixed doubles pair, Park Tae Yang (Park Ju Hyun) and Park Tae Joon (Chae Jong Hyeop), as they strive for Olympic success. Beyond the sports theme, the drama captures the emotional and romantic entanglements that unfold on and off the court, making it a compelling watch for fans of sports and romance dramas alike.
3. Crash Course in Romance
Crash Course in Romance premiered on tvN in January 2023, further propelling Lee Chae Min’s career. He played Lee Seon Jae, a high school student with a secret crush on his best friend. This romance drama centers around the unexpected love story between a math teacher and a former athlete, with Lee Chae Min’s character adding depth and charm to the storyline. His portrayal of a smart yet lovestruck teenager earned him much praise and increased his fanbase.
Upcoming Projects: Excitement for the Future
Looking ahead, Lee Chae Min is set to star in the Netflix drama Cashero, slated for release in 2025. This drama, adapted from a popular webtoon, tells the story of a civil servant with superpowers who must rely on cash to activate his abilities. With co-stars like Lee Jun Ho and Kim Hyang Gi, Cashero is highly anticipated and expected to be another significant step in Lee Chae Min’s rising career.
Conclusion
Lee Chae Min’s journey in the Korean drama industry is just beginning, but he has already demonstrated remarkable talent and versatility. From his debut in High Class to his compelling roles in Love All Play and Crash Course in Romance, he continues to captivate audiences with his performances. As we eagerly await his future projects, it’s clear that Lee Chae Min is a name to watch in the world of Korean dramas.
In my opinion, Lee Chae Min’s rapid rise is no fluke. His ability to immerse himself in diverse roles, combined with his undeniable screen presence, suggests that he is on the path to becoming one of the industry’s leading actors. For those who haven’t explored his work beyond Hierarchy, these dramas are a great starting point to witness his evolving talent.