Lee Dong-Wook Is Now Making Bolder Career Choices

The South Korean actor talks about making a comeback to rom-coms, his new show, The Divorce Insurance, and how he's changed the way he chooses his roles

By Puja Talwar | LAST UPDATED: MAY 1, 2025

In 2019 when Chanel launched its first make-up collection for men, Boy De Chanel, back in 2019, it was an obvious choice that Lee Dong-Wook would be the face of the brand. After all, the South Korean actor regularly ranks high in the list of the most handsome actors on Asian television screens.

Best known for playing Grim Reaper in 2016’s The Goblin, and Gumiho in Tale of the Nine Tailed, Dong-Wook could well pass off for a 25-year-old. But it has been 25 years since he made his screen acting debut, and at 43, continues to be one of the most popular and sought-after matinee stars in South Korea.

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We got chatting with him on career choices, singlehood and his new show, The Divorce Insurance.

Lee Dong-Wook

How have your career choices changed with time?

I am a lot bolder with my choices now. I take up what appeals to me, rather than thinking too much about my image and what people might perceive of me.

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Was it fun getting back to rom-coms after a host of action roles?

I don’t necessarily prefer action – I’ve only done it because it was necessary for the characters I was playing. Doing The Divorce Insurance was easier and more comfortable as I didn’t have to worry about doing stunts, for a change!

Lee Dong-Wook

Did you in any way relate to your character?

He’s gone through three marriages and divorces, so not much to relate. Even if I had gone through what he did, I doubt it would’ve made it easier to understand this character. Having said that, he is brave - it does take courage to decide to divorce three times. I was drawn towards the unique premise of the show, and the witty narrative.

Any advice to those who could be going through something similar?

Just think about the amount of alimony you would have to pay (laughs).

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