Another K-pop–turned–actor is stepping into dark territory. Following Im Si-wan and D.O. (Do Kyung-soo), Lee Junho is officially taking on his first full-scale villain role in director Ryoo Seung-wan’s upcoming film Veteran 3.
Lee Junho has been cast as a lead opposite Hwang Jung-min, with filming set to begin in the first half of next year. While details about his character remain under wraps, it has been confirmed that he will stand on the opposing side of Hwang’s iconic detective Seo Do-cheol — continuing the franchise’s tradition of powerful antagonists.
The Veteran series has a strong legacy. The original film drew over 13.4 million viewers, while Veteran 2 followed with 7.5 million, largely driven by intense villain performances. Yoo Ah-in allowing portrayed a ruthless chaebol heir in the first film, and Jung Hae-in shocked audiences as a chilling serial killer in the sequel. Expectations are now high for Lee Junho’s transformation.
Known for his charismatic leading roles, Lee Junho previously hinted at his desire for new challenges during interviews following Typhoon Company. Although he briefly explored darker shades in Chief Kim (2017), Veteran 3 marks his first true dive into a pure villain role.
“I’ve always had a hunger for something new,” Lee Junho shared. “I deeply admire Director Ryoo, and I felt this was the perfect moment to challenge myself with a villain — a character that feels exciting and creatively fulfilling right now.”
His casting also reflects a broader trend among idol-actors who have gained renewed recognition through villain roles. Im Si-wan earned critical acclaim for his chilling turn in Emergency Declaration, even winning a Best Supporting Actor award. Lee Jun-young built his acting reputation through intense antagonistic roles in D.P. and Mask Girl. More recently, D.O. received praise for his first-ever villain performance in Disney+’s The Sculpted City, describing the experience as emotionally intense yet strangely liberating.
With Lee Junho now joining this lineage of idol-actors redefining themselves through darker roles, Veteran 3 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Korean films of the coming year — promising not just action, but a compelling clash of power, morality, and performance.