Actor Lee Kwang Soo is making waves with his intense change of image in the upcoming action-thriller "The Manipulated," headlined by Ji Chang Wook and Do Kyung Soo (D.O.).
Based on a Laodong report, "The Manipulated" is the story of Tae Joong (played by Ji Chang Wook), a regular guy who gets caught up in a high-profile criminal case and gets wrongly convicted. He later finds out that the whole experience was manipulated by Yo Han (played by D.O.), triggering a planned revenge scheme.
Lee Kwang Soo plays Baek Do Kyung, a rich and powerful client of Yo Han who is the central figure in the cover-up of Tae Joong. Contrary to his stereotypical image as a comedic actor, Lee depicts a darker and mysterious character.
Talking about his method to the character, Lee Kwang Soo revealed, "I want Do Kyung to appear like someone who gets viewers uncomfortable just from looking at him. I tried my hardest for this character to make viewers feel insecure."
Director Park Shin Woo also commended Lee's acting, citing his talent to bring complexity and surprise to the drama. "Lee Kwang Soo acted Do Kyung in such a way that it was impossible to think of anyone else who could act this part," said the director.
Screenwriter Oh Sang Ho also praised the actor's subtle performance. "Lee Kwang Soo is the secret gem of "The Manipulated" because it is not likely to make even ordinary lines weird," he said.
Korean media houses have been positive that Lee's acting in Baek Do Kyung may be the new turning point of his career. Prior to this venture, his acting as the deranged physician Sang Hoon in Karma (Khien Duyen) saw him winning the Best Supporting Actor award at the 4th Blue Dragon Series Awards in July 2025.
Actress Shin Min Ah also complimented Lee's acting capabilities, stating that his "realistic and multi-dimensional performance makes the characters' emotions more vivid than what is written in the script."
"The Manipulated" will have 12 episodes, with the initial four to be released on November 5, and then two episodes released every week.
