admin2025 has been going pretty well for audiences who thrive on Korean content, all thanks to Netflix. The streaming giant has brought us some of the best Korean-language content of all time lately, from an explosive Squid Game finale to the gut-wrenching When Life Gives You Tangerines, and now it is prepared to take it even further with a live-action adaptation of Solo Leveling.
Based on a Korean web novel of the same name by Chugong, it has already been adapted into an anime series and video game, and now Netflix is taking a step further to convert it into a live-action television series starring Byeon Woo-Seok (via Netflix).
The novel follows the story of Sung Jin-Woo, a low-level hunter who transforms into humanity’s strongest fighter. And it is a role that demands charisma, depth, and emotional nuance, characteristics that Woo-seok has already proven he’s more than capable of portraying. Often described as ‘manhwa come to life’ because of his striking looks, the model-turned-actor has embodied diverse characters since his switch to acting.
Now, Netflix’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Solo Leveling marks a career pinnacle for him. But before he takes on this iconic role, let us take a moment and explore some of his earlier works that offer insight into his talent, versatility, charisma, and range. From romantic leads to supporting roles, here is a list of five must-watch roles of Byeon Woo-seok that underscore why he is the perfect choice for Sung Jin-woo!
5. Soulmate (2023)
Soulmate | Credits: Wide Lens Pictures
Having a spectacular 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Soulmate is a heart-warming film directed by Min Yong-geun. Adapted from the Chinese film of the same name, Byeon Woo-seok plays Ham Jin-woo, a classmate caught in a love triangle with best friends Mi-so (Kim Da-mi) and Ha-eun (Jeon So-nee).
Spanning 14 years, the film brilliantly traces their fracturing friendship as Jin-woo’s relationship with Ha-eun complicates their dynamics. While the two lead actresses do a wonderful job of bringing female friendship to life, Woo-seok shines in a supporting role that’s quiet yet pivotal.
Related: Lee Byung-hun’s Cryptic Tease Could Be Hinting at an Itaewon Class Alum’s Squid Game Spin-off Arc
Byeon’s understated performance adds emotional weight to the coming-of-age tale, which earned him a Best New Actor nomination at the Grand Bell Awards. His presence offers tenderness, stillness, and subtle depth to the story while also elevating whichever scene he is in. Despite his supporting role, the way he portrays longing and conflict shows he can also transform into an emotionally charged lead in Solo Leveling.
Cast: Byeon Woo-seok, Kim Da-mi, Jeon So-nee, Nam Yoon-su, Heo Ji-na.Streaming: Amazon Prime.
4. Record of Youth (2020)
Record of Youth | Credits: tvN
A celebrated gem of the Kdrama world, but one that doesn’t seem to get enough credit it deserves, Record of Youth, is directed by Ahn Gil-ho based on a story by Ha Myung-hee. Currently having a rating of 7.2 on IMDb, it is one of Woo-seok’s early breakthrough roles, and it still holds up as a showcase of his ability to play complex, career-driven characters. He stars as Won Hae-hyo, a wealthy model-turned-actor whose privilege constantly clashes with his desire to succeed on his own merits.
Starring as a charming second lead facing double pressures from his controlling mother and the competitive entertainment industry, he effortlessly conveys the complexity of his character. Layered with ambition, insecurity, and the burden of family expectations, Woo-seok makes sure Hae-hyo is likable and relatable.
Related: Before KPop Demon Hunters, Ahn Hyo-seop’s Best Role Had the Corniest Lines He Still Cringes At
His dynamic with Park Bo-gum (who plays the main lead) adds emotional texture and authenticity to the show, making it a standout in the show. Rather a slow-burn drama, but an essential one in Woo-seok’s filmography, this nuanced role showcases that Woo-seok can take on Solo Leveling’s complex hero with ease.
Cast: Byeon Woo-seok, Park Bo-gum, Park So-dam, Kang Mi-na, Shin Dong-mi.Streaming: Netflix.
3. Strong Girl Nam-soon (2023)
Strong Girl Nam-soon | Credits: JTBC
A brilliant spin-off of the iconic Park Bo-young starrer series (Strong Girl Bong-soon), Strong Girl Nam Soon features Byeon Woo-seok on the role of Ryu Si-oh. Starring as a charismatic yet ruthless CEO of the drug company Doogo, he plays the main antagonist of the series.
Although the show did not receive good critical reviews, having just a 36% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences loved the show and Woo-seok in a new role. The action-comedy follows Kang Nam-soon (Lee Yoo-mi), a super-strong woman who gets entangled in a drug case involving Si-oh’s company.
Related: Ahn Hyo-seop’s Netflix Gem Is the Perfect Antidote to Dakota Johnson’s Materialists
While the series is hilarious, Byeon’s portrayal of Si-oh, a villain with a complex mix of menace and hidden vulnerability, steals scenes, though some fans felt his arc deserved a better resolution. The actor navigates the transformation effortlessly, saving the role from falling completely flat. Moreover, his commanding presence and ability to navigate the enemy-to-lovers dynamic highlight his versatility, a characteristic that would serve him well in his upcoming role as Sung Jin-woo.
Cast: Byeon Woo-seok, Lee Yoo-mi, Kim Jung-eun, Kim Hae-sook, Ong Seong-wu.Streaming: Netflix.
2. 20th Century Girl (2022)
20th Century Girl | Credits: Netflix
It was in 2022’s 20th Century Girl that Byeon Woo-seok made his film debut. A nostalgic coming-of-age romance set back in 1999, the actor starred as the lead, the charming and swoonworthy Poong Woon-ho. Starring as a high school heartthrob who becomes the unexpected object of affection for Na Bo-ra (Kim Yoo-jung), the role probably hits home more than the others on this list thanks to his good looks.
Tasked with gathering intel on her friend’s crush, Bo-ra forms a bond with Woon-ho, leading to bittersweet emotions. Byeon’s warm, authentic performance earned him Best New Actor nominations at the Baeksang Arts and Buil Film Awards.
Related: Crash Landing on You Almost Had the Oscar-Winning Villain Plot, Se-hyung Is Gutless
His chemistry with Yoo-jung is both innocent and heartfelt, creating a love story that continues to resonate long after the credits roll. While the film leans into melodrama by the end, giving us an unexpected ending, its tender exploration of youth and love, paired with Woo-seok’s natural acting, makes it a standout. The film currently has an 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it a must-watch.
Cast: Byeon Woo-seok, Kim Yoo-jung, Park Jung-woo, Roh Yoon-seo, Kim Sung-kyung.Streaming: Netflix.
1. Lovely Runner (2024)
Lovely Runner | Credits: tvN
Now we do not really need to talk about this gem of a show, for if you know Byeon Woo-seok, there is a high chance that you might have discovered him because of this show. Based on a web novel titled Tomorrow’s Best, Woo-seok delivers a performance that catapulted him to true superstardom. He plays Ryu Sun-jae, a top-tier idol who dies tragically, only for a fan to travel back in time to try and save him.
This time-slip romance is a perfect blend of heart-warming romance, magical fantasy, and emotional depth, with Woo-seok’s portrayal of a man burdened by fame and fate remaining unforgettable. His portrayal of Sun-jae blends charisma with vulnerability, perfectly capturing the idol’s charm and inner struggles with fame and more.
Related: The VIPs Were Playing the Game, the Old Woman AKA Player 149’s Betrayal Will Be Bigger Than Player 001 in Squid Game 3: Squid Game 2 Theories That May Come True
Furthermore, it is his chemistry with Kim Hye-yoon that drives the heartfelt narrative, earning the series global praise. Having an 8.6 rating on IMDb, the series is a must-watch, especially if you are interested in themes of destiny, mental health, and sacrifice. Showcasing his leading-man prowess, this is a perfect primer for the actor’s upcoming Solo Leveling role.
Cast: Byeon Woo-seok, Kim Hye-yoon, Song Geon-hee, Lee Seung-hyub, Jung Young-joo.Streaming: Netflix, Viki.
Well, now that you have a list of Byeon Woo-seok’s must-stream roles, don’t wait until he levels up and stream them now! And if you have seen them, then let us know in the comments below which one of his characters you like the most.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire