Articles ●
05 May 2025
Why Lee Jae-wook is King of Fantasy Romances: From Alchemy of Souls to Dear Hongrang

Aktor Korea Selatan Lee Jae Wook / Foto: Instagram @jxxvvxxk
Lee Jae-wook has become the undisputed crown prince of fantasy K-Dramas, captivating audiences with his otherworldly charisma, intense gaze, and unmatched chemistry with co-stars. From his breakout role in Alchemy of Souls to his upcoming project Dear Hongrang (working title), the actor has redefined the fantasy-romance genre.
But what makes him so perfect for these mystical love stories? Let’s break down his reign—and why fans can’t get enough.
1. The Role That Started It All: Alchemy of Souls (2022-2023)
Why Jang Uk Became Iconic
✔ Brooding yet vulnerable – His portrayal of the tortured mage balanced strength and softness
✔ Legendary chemistry – With Jung So-min (Part 1) and Go Yoon-jung (Part 2)
✔ Fight scenes + romance – He excelled in both, making him the complete fantasy lead
Fan Reaction:
"No one does ‘angsty magical lover’ like Lee Jae-wook!" – @kdramamagic
2. Death’s Game (2023) – Proving His Range
Though not a romance, this dark fantasy thriller showed:
- His ability to play multiple characters (with different personalities)
- That he doesn’t need romance to shine—but still steals hearts
3. The Impossible Heir (2024) – A Darker Turn
A modern-day power struggle, but still with fantasy-drama energy:
✔ Mysterious aura (similar to Jang Uk)
✔ Intense emotional scenes
✔ Another doomed love story? (Fans suspect tragedy)
4. Upcoming: Dear Hongrang (2025) – A Return to Full Fantasy
What We Know So Far:
- Written by the Hong Sisters (Hotel Del Luna, Alchemy of Souls)
- Rumored plot: A gumiho (nine-tailed fox) love story
- Possible co-star: Kim Go-eun (unconfirmed)
Why This Could Be His Best Yet:
✅ Reuniting with the Hong Sisters (who made his fantasy stardom)
✅ Another mythical creature role (after mage, grim reaper)
✅ Potential epic romance (if Kim Go-eun joins, chemistry guaranteed)
5. What Makes Lee Jae-wook PERFECT for Fantasy Romance?
A. The Way He Looks at His Co-Stars
- His smoldering gaze makes every love scene electric
B. His Fight Scene Elegance
- Whether swinging a sword (Alchemy) or throwing punches (Impossible Heir), he moves like a fantasy hero
C. That Voice
- Deep, emotional, perfect for tragic monologues
D. He Understands the Genre
- "Fantasy isn’t about the powers—it’s about the heart." – Lee Jae-wook in an interview