Actor Lee Dong-gun is showing off his acting prowess in his role as Yeonsangun, a Joseon-era king, in the KBS drama “Queen for Seven Days.”

In the period piece, Lee plays the volatile king widely regarded as one of the worst monarchs of the more than 500-year dynasty. Yeonsangun, whose mother was exiled and executed by his father, King Seongjong, was noted for his cruelty and violence during his 11-year reign. He was eventually overthrown.

(FNC Entertainment)

Lee’s version of the king shows a wide range of emotions, from lust for his love interest and jealousy against his brother, to madness and frustration from his situation.

The drama airs Wednesdays and Thursdays on KBS2 at 10 p.m.

By Yoon Min-sik (minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com)