Lee Gikwang Debuts a Dark Side in ‘I Kill You’
K-pop star turned actor Lee Gikwang is flipping the script in a big way. Known for his bright idol image as a member of Highlight, Lee returns to screens in a chilling new role as a vengeful anti-hero in the hardboiled action series ‘I Kill You’, which just dropped all six episodes on Korean OTT platforms Wavve and Watcha.
From BIFAN to Streaming: A Festival Favorite Turns Binge-Worthy
‘I Kill You’ is directed by the legendary Yoo Ha, acclaimed for stylish action hits. The project is also Lee Gikwang’s first foray into a lead role on screen. When its movie version premiered at the 29th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN), it quickly earned accolades—including the Asia Film Award from the Méliès International Festivals Federation (MIFF)—and impressed audiences with its cinematic edge. Following a brief theatrical release, the drama adaptation now brings that same intense energy to your screen at home.
A Villain With Family Ties and a Dangerous Plan
Lee Gikwang plays Hojoong, the troubled and quietly dangerous half-brother of heiress Jiyeon (played by Kang Jiyoung). Hojoong, a chaebol (Korean conglomerate heir) with a deep-rooted inferiority complex, stops at nothing to claw his way to the top of his powerful family. Brace yourselves—Gikwang’s bone-chilling portrayal of this spiraling villain delivers a serious case of goosebumps.
Gikwang’s Busy Summer: From Stage Lights to Spotlights
Proving he’s more than just an idol, Lee Gikwang has been juggling careers like a pro. Beyond his return in Highlight’s 6th mini-album ‘From Real to Surreal’ with the hit title ‘Chains,’ he’s been charming viewers as the witty MC of the web variety show ‘I’m a Colmar S3’. But it’s his complete transformation in ‘I Kill You’ that might leave the biggest impression this summer—a performance as chilling as the first autumn breeze.
What’s Next for Lee Gikwang?
Fans won’t have to wait long—Highlight is currently on their ‘RIDE OR DIE’ Asia tour, celebrating their 16th anniversary with fans across the globe. But for now, if you’re craving suspense, blood-pumping action, and a familiar face gone rogue, ‘I Kill You’ might just be your next must-watch binge.
