Cover Joo Ji-hoon in ‘Lightshop Keeper’ (Photo: courtest of Disney+)
Joo Ji-hoon in ‘Lightshop Keeper’ (Photo: courtest of Disney+)
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Korean actor Joo Ji-hoon stars in a trio of K-dramas that show that his star is definitely on the rise
Some remember him as the dashing Prince Lee Shin in the 2006 hit Princess Hours; others know him as the Crown Prince Lee Chang in Netflix’s critically acclaimed Kingdom. Lately, however, Joo Ji-hoon has been everywhere. In the past two months alone, he’s starred in not one, not two, but three hit K-dramas—effortlessly shifting between vastly different roles across multiple genres. A masterclass in versatility, his recent streak is a reminder that it’s Joo Ji-hoon’s world and we’re all just living in it.
‘Love Your Enemy’ on Disney+
In a much-anticipated return to romantic comedies, Joo Ji-hoon stars in Love Your Enemy as Seok Ji-won, the privileged son of a wealthy businessman who unexpectedly returns to his former high school as its new chairman. His personal mission, however, is to rekindle a long-lost romance with his childhood sweetheart, Yun Ji-won, now a PE teacher at the school, who has no interest in revisiting the past. The sizzling chemistry between the two leads captivated audiences, while Joo’s effortless charm and impeccable comedic timing reignited calls for him to take on more rom-com roles.
A highlight to watch for: the karaoke scene, where he delivers a heartfelt rendition of “Perhaps Love”, the theme song from Princess Hours. A nostalgic tribute to his breakout role, it was the ultimate fan service moment.
See also: 7 Romantic K-Drama Shows On Netflix To Binge-Watch: CLOY, Start-Up, And More
‘Lightshop Keeper’ on Disney+
Lightshop Keeper came right on the heels of Love Your Enemy, a supernatural horror-thriller from the same writer behind last year’s K-drama sensation Moving. This time, Joo Ji-hoon takes on the titular role, as a quiet, enigmatic man who runs a mystical light shop for lost spirits.
With an ensemble cast that includes Park Bo-young, Kim Min-ha and Lee Jung-eun, Joo more than holds his own. His character remains stoic and distant for much of the series, yet beneath his cool exterior lies an undeniable warmth, much like his shop itself. It’s a delicate duality that Joo masterfully conveys with quiet intensity.
But it’s in the show’s most gut-wrenching moment—when his tragic past is finally revealed, and he crumbles in sheer desperation—that his performance truly stuns. Heartbreaking and powerful, it’s a reminder of why he remains one of K-drama’s most compelling leading men.
‘Trauma Code: Heroes on Call’ on Netflix
If jumping from rom-com to horror wasn’t enough of a flex, Joo Ji-hoon’s latest turn in Netflix’s Trauma Code: Heroes on Call proves he’s in a league of his own. In this high-octane medical action-comedy, he plays a brilliant yet irascible doctor—just as committed to saving lives as he is to whipping the trauma centre at Hankuk National University Hospital into shape.
Once again, Joo leans into his signature charm, transforming a character that could easily come off as abrasive into someone unexpectedly endearing. The ensemble cast plays off each other seamlessly, their chemistry crackling with effortless energy. The pacing is sharp, the humour lands, and the characters are impossible not to love. Before you know it, you’ll have binged all eight episodes—and still be craving more.
With Lightshop Keeper and Trauma Code both primed for potential new seasons, one thing is certain: Joo Ji-hoon isn’t going anywhere. Now, all that’s left is the long-awaited Kingdom season three. What do you say, Netflix?
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