The Korean Hulk: Don Lee’s Action Takeover
By Chris Weatherspoon
In South Korea, you can't escape him. His face adorns billboards, buses, and countless TV commercials promoting everything from fried chicken to luxury cars.
Don LEE / MA Dong-seok [마동석] seems to be on almost every bus in Seoul.
If you somehow don't know who he is, his name is Don LEE. Also known by his full name, MA Dong-seok [마동석], he is more than just a famous actor. In South Korea, he is an absolute force in the entertainment industry. Of course, every country has its A-list stars, but Don Lee, who is fluent in English, possesses a cross-cultural appeal and insane work ethic that sets him apart. Worldwide domination is inevitable.
Don Lee shows off his trademark arms (photo courtesy of Health CHOSUN)
Before the Fame: From Seoul to Ohio
Born in South Korea, Don Lee immigrated with his family to the US in 1989. He attended university in Ohio, studying athletic training and bodybuilding before becoming a trainer for MMA fighters. In 2004, he returned to Korea to begin his acting career. Due to his large stature and famously enormous arms (Don Lee became president of the Korean Arm-Wrestling Federation in 2018), he was initially offered supporting roles as the archetypal tough guy. However, he persevered, and his prolific film career has showcased his impressive acting range. Despite Don Lee’s intimidating size, he manages to embody both the caring, gentle-giant such as the widowed dad in The Soul-Mate and the no-nonsense detective determined to clean up the streets in The Outlaws (2017), demonstrating versatility that few possess.
Don Lee as sensitive stylist and caring father Pyung-goo Park in Familyhood (2016)
From Mr. Relatable to Mr. Bankable
Though roles in films like The Neighbor, Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time, and The Unjust established Don Lee as a popular supporting player, many consider his big break to be the 2016 zombie horror film Train to Busan, which propelled him to leading man status. Since then, Don Lee has been Korea's most bankable star, and his The Roundup series of action films, produced by his company Big Punch Entertainment, have become box office juggernauts.
The first entry in the series, The Outlaws (2017), was met with critical acclaim. Its sequel, The Roundup (2022), became the first Korean film to surpass 10 million ticket sales since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The third film, The Roundup: No Way Out (2023), achieved the same feat and was the year's 2nd highest-grossing Korean film, revitalizing Korean cinema chains. The latest entry, The Roundup: Punishment (2024), is already a box office sensation. Don Lee's team is ambitious, currently writing scripts for entries 5, 6, 7, and 8 with plans for annual releases. This relentless pace might sound insane, but consider that he has appeared in at least one film every year since 2004, often starring in multiple projects annually – a feat highlighted by an astonishing ten film appearances in 2013 alone!
The Outlaws (2017), The Roundup (2022) and The Roundup: No Way Out (2023) have been box office gold. More are on the way!
The Fan Favorite with Unwavering Support
Don Lee's unique blend of intimidating physique and undeniable charm has made him Korea's ultimate relatable hero, amassing a massive fan following. Affectionately nicknamed "Cute Hulk," he has consistently ranked in the top 3 of Gallup Korea’s Film Actor of the Year polls since 2017 (topping the list in 2018 and 2023). Brands have taken notice, with endorsement deals covering everything from fast food to high-end fashion.
The Inevitable Global Star
Don Lee's Hollywood debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Eternals (2021) marked a major step. In addition to Marvel's plans for future appearances, Don Lee will star in and produce the Hollywood remake of the 2019 Korean film The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil. His ambition to make The Roundup a Korean Fast and Furious with multiple sequels demonstrates confidence and vision.
Don Lee as Gilgamesh in Marvel’s Eternals (2021)
The Future Belongs to Don
Don Lee has the potential to redefine the global action star. His action prowess, comedic timing, dramatic range, and English fluency help him transcend cultural boundaries. His expanding portfolio, strong fan base, relentless work schedule, and grand vision for The Roundup franchise position him not just as a rising star, but an inevitable force in international cinema.
From tough guys to gentle giants, Don Lee does it all. Start exploring his movies today!