Why We Can't Get Enough Of Ryu Jun Yeol

Ryu Jun Yeol is the breakout star of tvN's hit period drama, "Reply 1988." He is an emerging actor, who garnered critical acclaim with his feature film debut in the 2015 psychological thriller, "Socialphobia," before tackling the role of Kim Jung Hwan in the latest installment of the popular "Reply" series. 

As the series reaches its conclusion on January 16, audiences will tune in to see if the scrappy heroine Duk Sun (Hyeri) will choose Jung Hwan as her husband or Taek (Park Bo Gum). 

Here are several reasons why we can't get enough of Ryu Jun Yeol and are eagerly awaiting the announcement of his next role. 

1. The 29-year-old actor possesses the brooding, dark knight charm that helped catapult K-Drama darlings like Kim Woo Bin (The Heirs) and Ji Soo (Angry Mom) into stardom. 

Ryu Jun Yeol is not conventionally handsome nor would he be the first pick for a "flower boy" drama. His piercing gaze and slow smile add to this appeal. In "Socialphobia," his looks, along with his attractive co-star, Byun Yo Han, outshined the somber backdrop of cyberbullying. 

2. His portrayal of Jung Hwan may deliver nerve-wracking moments, but anyone who has had a teenage crush can relate to his precarious situation. 

High school crushes can be difficult, particularly when they develop into adulthood. Episode 18 of "Reply 1988" provided one of the most cringeworthy K-Drama scenes in years, as Jung Hwan confessed to Duk Sun (Hyeri), then pretended that he was joking. However, the nuanced delivery of the lines added realism that is often devoid in romantic series. 

3. He demonstrated his potential as a dramatic actor in "Glory Day" and "Reply 1988" but has the potential to tackle comedic roles.

While he has yet to announce his next project, he has the potential to transition to romantic comedies.