Actor Lee Yi-kyung announced a new beginning with a Japanese drama following controversies over his personal life and his departure from the show “Hangout with Yoo.” This time, he is transforming into a K-pop agency CEO.
On December 1, Lee Yi-kyung’s agency, Sangyoung Entertainment, stated, “Lee Yi-kyung will appear in the Japanese TBS Friday drama ‘DREAM STAGE’.” The drama, set against the backdrop of the K-pop industry, follows the passionate journey of a producer who has been pushed out of the industry and seven Korean trainees as they strive for their dreams beyond generational and national boundaries. The cast includes Nakamura Tomoya, Ha Yeon-soo, Lee Yi-kyung, and Kim Jae-kyung, drawing anticipation from fans in both Korea and Japan.
In the drama, Lee Yi-kyung takes on the role of Choi Ki-yong, the CEO of the major music agency “Bouquet Music.” Behind his gentle appearance, he is obsessed with perfection and victory, using any means necessary to elevate the rookie boy group “Torner” to the top. Known for his strong villain roles in “Marry My Husband” (tvN) and “Face Me” (KBS2), he is expected to showcase another facet in this Japanese drama. “DREAM STAGE” is set to air every Friday at 10 p.m. starting in January 2026.
The news of his casting is a welcome piece of good news amidst recent controversies surrounding his personal life and departure from a show. Previously, an individual claiming to be German named A accused Lee Yi-kyung of personal misconduct through revealing messages and photos on social media. Lee Yi-kyung’s side responded with a firm stance, labeling it “spreading false information.” A later apologized, claiming the photos were AI-generated, before retracting their statement by saying, “All evidence was real,” creating further confusion.
In response, Lee Yi-kyung publicly disclosed a complaint and stated, “Once the warrant is issued, the suspect will be identified,” asserting, “If they are in Germany, I will personally file a lawsuit. There will be no leniency for malicious commenters.”
Additionally, Lee Yi-kyung spoke about his departure from “Hangout with Yoo.” He explained, “I was advised to step down due to personal life rumors and voluntarily left the show,” adding, “During the previous ‘noodle slurping’ controversy, a scene was edited upon the production team’s request, distorting the context.” The production team later issued an official apology.
Despite the ongoing controversies, Lee Yi-kyung continues his career as an actor, expected to once again prove his strong presence through this Japanese drama.