Lee Jung-jae’s 6 Best Performances: From Squid Game to The Face Reader & Star Wars
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✨ Introduction: Who Is Lee Jung-jae?
Lee Jung-jae is a multi-talented Korean actor and filmmaker with a career that spans three decades. From melodramas to period blockbusters, he has constantly evolved, earning global acclaim in 2021 for Squid Game.
Now set to appear in Star Wars: The Acolyte, Lee's legendary status as Korea’s cinematic powerhouse is undeniable.
🎥 Career Highlights: From Model to Global Movie Star
Starting as a model in the early 90s, Lee transitioned into acting and quickly rose to fame through dramas like “Sandglass”. By the late 2000s, he had transformed into one of Korea’s most versatile leading men.
In 2022, he made his directorial debut with Hunt, showing yet another layer of artistry. With upcoming projects in Hollywood, Lee is now a true global figure.
🎬 Top 6 Lee Jung-jae Performances
1. 🦑 Squid Game (2021), Squid Game2 (2024)
Platform: Netflix
Lee’s role as Seong Gi-hun was raw, emotional, and unforgettable. His performance earned him a Primetime Emmy, making him the first Asian male to win Best Lead Actor in a Drama.
🎥 Watch on Netflix2. 🕶️ Hunt (2022)
Lee's directorial debut is a gripping Cold War-era spy thriller, full of political intrigue and double agents. He also stars as a high-ranking KCIA officer.
The film premiered at Cannes Film Festival.
3. 🎯 Assassination (2015)
Platform: Amazon Prime, Viki
Set in the 1930s Japanese-occupied Korea, Lee plays Yeom Seok-jin, a resistance leader with complex motives.
The film was a massive hit, blending action and political tension. It shows Lee’s mastery of historical thrillers.
4. 🕵️♂️ New World (2013)
Platform: Prime Video, Tubi
As undercover cop Ja-sung, Lee navigates between gang loyalty and justice. This performance is considered one of the best in Korean crime cinema.
5. 🧠 The Face Reader (2013)
Platform: Viki, Kocowa
Lee takes on the chilling role of Grand Prince Suyang, whose rise to power is filled with political betrayal. The performance is subtle, sinister, and historically rich.
6. 🚀 Star Wars: The Acolyte (2025)
Platform: Disney+ (Coming 2025)
Lee will lead the next Star Wars chapter as a Jedi Master in The Acolyte, marking his Hollywood debut. This is a historic step for both Korean talent and global franchises.
🚀 Hollywood Calling: Lee Jung-jae in Star Wars
Set a century before the Skywalker Saga, The Acolyte will explore the rise of the Dark Side in the Jedi Order. Lee’s casting is a landmark moment for Asian actors in sci-fi.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
- Primetime Emmy Award – Squid Game (2022)
- Blue Dragon Award – Best Actor (New World)
- Baeksang Arts Award – Daesang (Grand Prize)
- Cannes Film Festival – Directorial debut with Hunt
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
A: His portrayal of Seong Gi-hun in Squid Game.
Q: What is his next major project?
A: He plays a Jedi Master in Star Wars: The Acolyte, premiering on Disney+ in 2025.
Q: Where can I watch his historical works?
A: Assassination and The Face Reader are available on Prime Video and Viki.
Q: Did he direct any films?
A: Yes, Hunt (2022) was both his directorial debut and a starring project.
💫 Lee Jung-jae’s filmography is a masterclass in versatility — from Korean independence to galactic conflict, his performances will leave you stunned.
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