Lee Won Suk

Biography

Lee Won-suk (이원석), born on January 9, 1974, is a South Korean film director and screenwriter known for his unique approach to storytelling, often blending genres with a quirky and humorous touch.   

Early Career and Debut:

Lee Won-suk gained early experience in the film industry as a first assistant director on the 2009 omnibus film "Five Senses of Eros." He made his directorial debut in 2013 with the romantic comedy "How to Use Guys with Secret Tips" (남자사용설명서). While not a major commercial success initially, this film garnered international recognition, winning the Audience Award at the Far East Film Festival and a Bronze Prize at the Fantasia International Film Festival in 2013, highlighting Lee's potential and distinctive style.   

Rising Recognition:

His second feature film, the period drama "The Royal Tailor" (상의원), released in 2014, further solidified his position as a noteworthy director. This film, which explored themes of tradition and innovation within the royal court, also resonated with audiences, winning Audience Awards at the Udine Far East Film Festival and the New York Asian Film Festival in 2015.   

Recent Works and Style:

Lee Won-suk returned to the director's chair in 2023 with the film "Killing Romance." His filmography showcases a willingness to experiment with genre, often injecting comedic elements into unexpected narratives. This ability to blend tones and create films that are both entertaining and thought-provoking is becoming a hallmark of his work.