Written by Faith Joan Chua
For Lee Dong Wook age is just a number and I’m sure that fans of the 300-year-old Grim Reaper can relate. Known for his notable portrayal as Wang Yeo in Goblin: The Lonely and Great God (2016), Lee Dong Wook is loved worldwide with his captivating charm, versatile acting and strikingly good looks.
Lee Dong Wook’s acting is evident across a diverse range of genres, from Strangers from Hell (2019), then Touch Your Heart (2019) as a romantic lead. His role as a fox-like demon in Tale of the Nine-Tailed (2020) and Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938 (2023) have helped gumiho become an intriguing subject in K-dramas, and he slayed in many more.
Here are 4 reasons why the actor deserves to be our Man Crush of the week:
*Drama spoilers ahead!*
1. GODLY FASHION SENSE
Lee Dong Wook’s fashion aesthetics captured the K-drama world by storm and started a new fashion trend. In the TVN fantasy series, the Grim Reaper wears only black or dark colors due to the nature of his work. Though he sports different outfits throughout Goblin’s 16 episodes, fans will notice his most distinct piece — the oversized coat. With his height and great physique, Lee pulls off the look effortlessly.
The actor also posed topless for Vogue Man HK’s April 2024 issue, showing off his toned body and chiseled abs. At 300 years old, he’s doing a pretty good job!
2. SPONTANEOUS ACTING SKILLS
While we wailed over the fates of the star-crossed lovers Wang Yeo and Kim Sun, Lee also revealed in an interview with Arena Homme Plus that he cried the most acting in Goblin compared to any other drama.
Besides having the ability to cry spontaneously, Lee also has a talent for witty ad-libs. In Goblin’s behind-the-scenes footage, he constantly shows his playful side while coming up with creative and hilarious ad-libs that make the cast and crew burst out in laughter.
3. INHUMAN GOOD LOOKS
To earn a spot in #ManCrushMonday, our nominee would have to posses god-like features. Considering the fact that the Grim Reaper is a god, he has all the physical qualities that make mortal women swoon. Lee manages to debut a fresh look in every drama from his matured, shaggy appearance in Wild Romance to ‘boyish innocence’ in Goblin. This is no wonder he came in 4th place among the top 5 male celebrities that women would like to have as a date on Valentine’s Day.
4. HIS BROMANCE WITH GONG YOO
Bromance is a must-have in every Korean drama. As much as we ship the main loveline, the chemistry between the Grim Reaper and Goblin is absolutely adorable. From their first encounter when Goblin insults Grim Reaper’s signature black hat, to the time they fought over the dinner table using their powers of telekinesis, the two frenemies have had viewers rooting for the couple from the start of the drama.
Another fun fact—2024 marks Lee Dong Wook’s 25th debut anniversary, 25 years is definitely a testament to his progress and growth in his journey as an actor.
Do you love Lee Dong Wook as much as we do? Tell us who you’d like us to feature on the next #ManCrush!