Lee Sung Kyung has proven herself to be a true multi-hyphenate, excelling as a model, actress, singer, and scene-stealer. From quirky second-lead roles to heartfelt leading performances, she’s built a strong portfolio that highlights her charisma, emotional depth, and range. Starting out as a model, she transitioned smoothly into acting, where her expressive eyes and on-screen charm quickly caught attention.
Whether you fell for her as the bold weightlifter Kim Bok Joo or rooted for her as a sharp PR executive, Lee Sung Kyung continues to deliver memorable performances across genres.
Here's a look back at some of her most iconic K-drama roles through the years.
'IT'S OKAY, THAT'S LOVE' (2014)
She made her acting debut as Oh So Nyeo, a troubled high schooler with a fiery attitude. Despite it being a supporting role, she made a strong impression with her bold energy and natural presence. It was the first glimpse of her star potential.
'FLOWER OF QUEEN' (2015)
Her first leading role came as Kang Yi Sol, a spirited young woman raised in Taiwan. After heartbreak and loss, she uncovers a family secret that changes everything. This weekend drama gave her room to explore emotional depth, earning her the Best New Actress award at the 2015 MBC Drama Awards.
'CHEESE IN THE TRAP' (2016)
As the wild and dramatic Baek In Ha, she brought fire to the screen. With her bold fashion, intense mood swings, and unforgettable one-liners, her portrayal quickly became a fan-favorite. She added a lot of flair to the otherwise grounded college drama.
'THE DOCTORS' (2016)
Playing Jin Seo Woo, a neurosurgeon with complicated emotions, she stepped into a more mature, serious role. Her rivalry with a friend exposed her insecurities and unspoken feelings. It was a nuanced performance that showed her dramatic growth.
'WEIGHTLIFTING FAIRY KIM BOK JOO' (2016)
This coming-of-age drama remains one of her most iconic. As Kim Bok Joo, she brought warmth, humor, and heart to the role of an ambitious weightlifter navigating school, friendships, and first love. The role earned her multiple award nominations and cemented her status as a beloved lead.
'ABOUT TIME' (2018)
In this fantasy melodrama, she played Choi Michaela, a musical actress who can see people’s lifespans. Her world shifts after meeting a man whose presence extends her life. As she struggles between love and survival, the emotional complexity of her character shined through.
'DR. ROMANTIC' (2022 – 2023)
Returning to medical drama, she played Cha Eun Jae, a brilliant but anxious second-year CS fellow. After facing setbacks in her career, she’s sent to Doldam Hospital to regain her confidence. Her performance earned her several awards, including the AAA Best Actress and Top Excellence Award at the SBS Drama Awards.
'SHOOTING STARS' (2022)
As Oh Han Byeol, head of PR at a top entertainment company, she brought both sass and heart to this workplace rom-com. Her character balanced professionalism with humor, offering a fun, inside look at the celebrity world.
'CALL IT LOVE' (2023)
One of her most emotionally demanding roles, she played Shim Woo Joo, a woman hardened by betrayal and heartbreak. What begins as a mission of revenge slowly turns into a complicated love story. Her ability to show quiet pain and layered emotions left a lasting impact.
'THE NICE GUY' (2025)
In her latest drama, she stars as Kang Mi Young, an ambitious young woman chasing her dream of becoming a singer while juggling multiple part-time jobs. She reconnects with her first love, who happens to be the eldest grandson of a multigenerational gangster family. Together, they look for a second chance at a better life.
Lee Sung Kyung continues to evolve with every role. Her ability to shift between rom-coms, melodramas, and medical dramas has made her one of the most versatile and relatable actresses of her generation.
Which of her roles is your personal favorite?
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