Lee Kwang-soo New Drama: From Running Man to Netflix’s Karma

When I think of Lee Kwang-soo, I instantly picture his lanky frame sprinting in chaotic games on Running Man, pulling hilarious betrayals, and cracking up entire stadiums of fans. But what I love even more is watching him shatter that goofy image in every new project he picks — and this year, he’s doing exactly that. So here’s my deep dive on Lee Kwang-soo’s new drama roles and why he’s more unstoppable than ever.

I still remember when Lee Kwang-soo first caught my eye back in the Running Man golden era. Back then, he was the sneaky “Giraffe” who turned betrayal into an art form, earning the nickname “Asia’s Prince” for his universal appeal across Korea and beyond. Who would’ve thought that same prankster would become one of Korea’s most versatile actors?

His Humble Start and Running Man Royalty

Lee Kwang-soo’s road to stardom wasn’t overnight. He kicked off in 2007, post-military service, landing small roles in commercials and sitcoms like Here He Comes. The real turning point, though, was Running Man in 2010. That show made him a household name, not just for his 6’2” frame and awkward charm but for how naturally he connected with viewers. No matter the prank or punishment, he sold it with total sincerity.

But what really sets Lee apart is how he flipped that image when he stepped off the variety stage. Early films like Wonderful Radio and All About My Wife leaned into his comedic timing, but he wasn’t afraid to get serious either. I’ll never forget his performance in It’s Okay, That’s Love — he played a waiter with Tourette’s syndrome so delicately that he won an Excellence Award at the Korean Drama Awards. That was the moment I knew he was more than just “the funny guy.”

New Chapters: The Divorce Insurance & Netflix’s Karma

Fast forward to 2025, and Lee Kwang-soo’s new drama lineup proves he’s still evolving. Right now, he’s starring in The Divorce Insurance on Amazon Prime, a quirky workplace comedy that taps into his slapstick genius. I’m already hooked — there’s no one better at playing an everyday guy trapped in absurd scenarios.

On the darker side, there’s Karma on Netflix. This one’s a big departure. He plays “Glasses,” a morally torn figure caught in a gritty web alongside heavyweights like Park Hae-soo and Shin Min-a. Seeing him switch from punchlines to suspense in the same breath? That’s peak Lee Kwang-soo for me. It’s exactly why he’s still in demand, over 15 years since his debut.

Why His Range Matters

His career has always been about range. Who else could play an unlucky patrol officer in Live, then turn around and deliver an award-winning performance as a man with an intellectual disability in Inseparable Bros? He even snagged Best Supporting Actor at the Blue Dragon Film Awards for that.

It’s that fearless jump from slapstick to heart-wrenching that keeps me watching. Sure, I love a good Running Man rerun, but watching him pour every ounce of himself into these new roles — that’s the real show.

Still Korea’s Beloved “Prince”

Lee Kwang-soo’s new drama roles remind me why he’ll always be Asia’s Prince. He’s goofy, honest, and heartbreakingly real when he needs to be. I’m thrilled he keeps picking projects that challenge him and surprise us.

So if you’re like me and still can’t get enough of the Giraffe, now’s the perfect time to see how far he’s come. Between The Divorce Insurance and Karma, Lee Kwang-soo’s new dramas are proof that sometimes the funniest guy in the room can hit the hardest — and that’s exactly why I’ll be tuning in every time. For more of such content, check out the link below.

Alternatively, watch his latest releases here: