South Korean Star Lee Je-hoon Ready For His Next Gay Role
Meet Lee Je-hoon, one of South Korea’s top actors. Known for his versatility, Lee has starred in action films, romances, period dramas, and comedies. After a break from mandatory military service from 2012 to 2014, he returned to the screen even more popular.
Lee’s latest film, Escape, is set to hit select US theaters on July 5. Action-packed, he plays a North Korean army sergeant who decides to defect to the South. His character is pursued by a ruthless major, played by Koo Kyo-Hwan. The film’s promotional materials hint at a cat-and-mouse dynamic between the two, sparking speculation about an underlying romantic tension.
Chemistry On and Off-Screen
At a recent press conference, the chemistry between Lee and Koo was a hot topic. When asked if they would prefer to play friends or enemies in a future project, Lee cheekily responded, “Lovers,” causing quite a stir. This playful comment highlights Lee’s openness to LGBTQIA+ roles, a significant stance given the ongoing struggle for equality in South Korea.
Lee is no stranger to LGBTQIA+ roles. One of his early breakout performances was in the short film Just Friends? In this musical romance, he plays Seok-i, a young man visiting his boyfriend Min-soo, who is on leave from the military. The film explores their relationship and the challenges they face, including Min-soo’s mother not knowing they are more than just friends.
Lee’s willingness to take on gay roles is noteworthy. His past roles have often been traditionally masculine, such as a tough alpha male in Bleak Night and an ex-convict turned boxer in the Netflix series Move To Heaven. The latter also features a powerful gay storyline in its fifth episode, showcasing Lee’s range and comfort with diverse characters.
Fans are eagerly awaiting Lee’s next project. His openness and talent make him a standout in the industry. With Escape set for release, audiences can look forward to seeing more of Lee Je-hoon’s captivating performances.
