Jang DongYoon: 2023’s Unsung K-Drama Hero

Without a doubt, 2023 witnessed Jang DongYoon come into his own. His ability to breathe life into his characters and his influence is made more profound, with three key reasons highlighting why he is 2023’s unsung K-Drama hero.

1. Conviction

Jang DongYoon as Lee DooHak in "Oasis" struck a chord like no other; the way he was able to realistically portray his role as protagonist in often fraught situations with Oh JungShin (Seor InA) and Choi CheolWoong (Choo YoungWoo) displayed such a versatility. Channeling a 1980s gangster, DongYoon was hardened criminal with a vulnerable side, where he was able to achieve justice in the face of corruption while looking after his one love. There was such a conviction in the way the character was represented, allowing the viewer to also go on DooHak’s journey of discovery.

KBS

2. Courage

Jang DongYoon again shows just how capable he is when tackling challenging topics such as mental health in Netflix’s "Daily Dose of Sunshine". While viewers quietly hoped that his love of Jung DaEun (Park BoYoung) would manifest despite the opposing love interest of Dong GoYun (Yeon WooJin), it was really the authenticity with which he played his character of Song YuChan that was the heart of this role. His sensitive depiction of someone battling with anxiety demonstrated a depth of courage that was truly heroic.   

Netflix

3. Diligent Beyond Measure

"My Man Is Cupid" continues to showcase Jang DongYoon’s presence, with plenty of comedic moments. However, the most impressive elements are when DongYoon, as Cheon SangHyuk, is able to illustrate his caring nature for Oh BaekRyeon (NaNa). You can read the confusion on his face at times, when he is compelled to protect Oh BaekRyeon despite his initial indifference. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and while their story is still developing, Jang DongYoon’s attentiveness is not to be missed. The simple fact that DongYoon has completed so many series and movies this year shows his diligence in his own life. 

Amazon Prime

With all of these dramas under his belt, Jang DongYoon is well on his way to further accolades - has there been a harder working actor this year? In one final salute to 2023, viewers can see him in the current drama "Like Flowers In Sand", in which DongYoon plays a member of a ssireum team. He is undoubtedly an unsung K-Drama hero!