And You Thought Step-Mothers Were Evil: Part 2
A Stalker’s Guide to Lee Min Ki
I started Shut Up: Flower Boy Band very innocently. It was the second in tvN’s Flower Boy series, and I honestly expected more of the same as Flower Boy Ramyun Shop. More pretty faces, lots of romance, and an OTP for the record books. That wasn't what I got. What I got was my heart completely dedicated to a slightly insane rocker who could pull off eyeliner better than some women. What I got was my heart completely torn out and pulverized, leaving a scar so deep I’m not sure I’ll ever get over it. What I got was the beginning of an obsession with Lee Min Ki.
This is my stalker’s guide to the actor, singer, and model Lee Min Ki.
Dramas
Shut Up: Flower Boy Band (2012)
Guest Role: Joo Byung Hee
Why You Should Watch: It’s the drama that started it all. The talent shown by Min Ki in his short run on SUFBB instantly put him on my watch list. He reminded me a bit of Johnny Depp with this slightly crazy tortured soul that you rooted for with your whole heart. It was such a intense character that no matter what the drama puts you through, his performance can not be missed.
I Really Really Like You (2006)
Main Role: Nam Bong Ki
Why You Should Watch: Let me put it this way. I loved this drama so much it’s one of three dramas I actually own on DVD. It’s the very first thing I watched him in after the emotional turmoil I went through with SUFBB. Boy was it nice seeing him in a lead role after that. He plays a typical leading man, the jerk that falls kicking and screaming into love, but the drama was so compelling I couldn't help but adore it. At the time, it was the longest drama I had ever watched at 34 episodes. I barely felt it’s length though with how well the storyline progressed. It’s definitely a must see.
Dal Ja’s Spring (2007)
Main Role: Kang Tae Bong
Why You Should Watch: Dal Ja’s Spring is one of Min Ki’s early roles that helped boost him into notoriety. It’s a drama that deals with women in their thirties and the relationships they have around them. Min Ki’s role is that of a smooth talking boyfriend for hire who seeks to be the cub to the main girl’s cougar. These characters are adults with adult relationships so it’s definitely a drama to watch when you’re looking for a more mature storyline.
Movies
Chilling Romance (2011)
Main Role: Ma Jo Goo
Why You Should Watch: Min Ki plays a magician who against his better interests becomes caught up in helping a girl with her supernatural problems. This is one of my absolute favorite horror movies. I usually hate horror, but the comedy and romance almost make you forget the scary ghost factor. It’s definitely the kind of movie you want to watch when you’re in the mood to be scared but still need to fall asleep that night.
Romantic Island (2008)
Main Role: Lee Jong Hwan
Why You Should Watch: The reunion of an OTP. Such a rare thing in dramaland, but the casting directors were nice to us and reunited the star couple from I Really Really Like You. I loved watching it just because of the completely different roles these two had to portray while keeping the same chemistry. There’s a reason certain couples keep getting put together. But it’s also a very cute movie about three different stages of love, and how one little vacation can completely change your life if you let it.
Quick (2011)
Main Role: Han Ki Soo
Why You Should Watch: This is a guy’s movie. It’s totally filled with chasing, explosions, and really fast cars. It’s the perfect movie to watch with the male friend/significant other that you've been trying to introduce to Asian television. He can watch lots of things go BOOM and you can watch Min Ki looking gorgeous in the firelight. That aside, it really is a well done action movie...if you like that sort of thing.
There are three things I've learned from watching Lee Min Ki these past two years. 1. He’s crazy gorgeous. 2. He’s a very versatile actor who doesn't shy away from the unique characters. 3. He’s definitely a man worthy of the leading role. He captures your interest no matter what part he plays.
Check out his MDL profile for the rest of his acting resume.
If there is an actor or an actress that is worthy of a Stalker's Guide in your opinion, and you have watched enough dramas of his/hers to prove it, please contact Elisabetta about it.
