Lee YiKyung Joins ‘DREAM STAGE’ Cast for Japanese Drama

Actor Lee YiKyung has officially joined the ‘DREAM STAGE’ cast, marking his first role in a Japanese drama. The K-pop themed series from broadcaster TBS is scheduled to premiere in January 2026, signaling the actor’s expansion into the Japanese entertainment market following a string of successful projects.

About the Japanese Drama ‘DREAM STAGE’

‘DREAM STAGE’ is a highly anticipated drama set in the competitive world of K-pop. The story follows a disgraced producer who teams up with seven Korean trainees. Together, they must overcome generational and national differences to achieve their shared dream of success. The series is set to air in Japan on TBS during the prime Friday 10 PM time slot. The ‘DREAM STAGE’ cast features a compelling lineup, with Lee YiKyung starring alongside prominent actors Nakamura Tomoya, Ha YeonSoo, and Kim JaeKyung, creating a dynamic mix of Korean and Japanese talent.

Lee YiKyung’s Villainous Role as Choi Kiyong

Lee YiKyung is cast as Choi Kiyong, the primary antagonist of the series. This role continues his trend of portraying memorable and complex villains, promising another powerful performance.

The Two-Faced CEO of Bouquet Music

In the drama, Choi Kiyong is the perfectionist CEO of Bouquet Music, a major music agency responsible for numerous K-pop stars. He presents a gentle public image, often using the catchphrase, “A bouquet of music for the world.” However, behind this facade, he is a secretly strict and ruthless figure obsessed with victory at all costs. This duality is expected to be a central part of his character in this Japanese drama.

Mission to Elevate Rookie Group Toriner

Kiyong’s main objective is to ensure the success of his agency’s new boy group, Toriner. He is prepared to use any means necessary to propel the rookie group to the top of the charts, setting him up as a formidable obstacle for the drama’s protagonists. His character embodies the high-stakes pressure of the K-pop industry, a theme also explored in shows like “Stage K” (2019 TV Show): Cast & Summary.

A Proven Master of Villain Roles

Lee YiKyung’s casting as a villain in ‘DREAM STAGE’ comes as no surprise to fans who have followed his recent work. He received widespread acclaim for his role as the contemptible antagonist Park Minhwan in the hit tvN drama ‘Marry My Husband’. Following that, he delivered another chilling performance as the hidden villain Han Woojin in KBS 2TV’s ‘Face Me’. This new role in a major Japanese drama solidifies his reputation as a go-to actor for compelling antagonist characters.

Lee YiKyung’s Recent Career Moves

This international venture follows a busy period for Lee YiKyung. After departing from the cast of the popular MBC variety show ‘Hangout with Yoo’, the actor has remained a prominent figure on television. As of December 2025, he is an active cast member on E Channel’s ‘Brave Detectives 4’, SBS Plus’s ‘I Am Solo’, and tvN’s ‘Handsome Guys’. His entry into the Japanese market with the ‘DREAM STAGE’ cast marks a significant new chapter in his already versatile career.

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