Lee Jong-won is officially stepping into the world of horror, and fans are already buzzing. The rising actor is set to headline the upcoming Korean horror film Whispering Water (also known as Salmokji), marking his very first venture into the horror genre. Known for his warm screen presence and emotionally layered performances in dramas like Brewing Love and Knight Flower, Lee Jong Won is now ready to explore a darker, more intense side of his acting spectrum.

In Whispering Water, Lee Jong Won takes on the role of Ki Tae, a producer who travels to a remote reservoir with his team to investigate a mysterious figure that appeared in previously recorded footage. What begins as a routine reshoot quickly spirals into a terrifying encounter with unexplained supernatural forces lurking beneath the water. As strange events unfold and his colleague Soo In goes missing, Ki Tae is forced to confront an unimaginable horror while desperately searching for answers.

The film pairs Lee Jong Won with Kim Hye-yoon, who plays Soo In, the determined team leader. Their on-screen dynamic is expected to heighten the emotional tension of the story, blending psychological fear with human vulnerability. For Lee Jong Won, this project represents more than just another acting role—it is his first full-scale commercial horror film and a significant milestone in his career growth.

Distributed by Showbox, Whispering Water is already gaining attention for its eerie setting and suspense-driven narrative. The story unfolds around a secluded reservoir that locals believe to be cursed, creating a haunting atmosphere that amplifies the film’s psychological dread. Early promotional materials describe the location as a space where the boundary between life and death begins to blur, promising viewers a suffocating and immersive horror experience.

Lee Jong Won’s transformation for this role has sparked curiosity among fans who are used to seeing him in romantic or historical dramas. Taking on a character who must navigate fear, desperation, and survival instincts allows him to showcase a broader emotional range. Industry insiders are already calling this a pivotal moment that could redefine his screen image and open doors to more genre-diverse roles in the future.

With its theatrical release scheduled for April 8, 2026, Whispering Water is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Korean horror films of the year. For fans of Lee Jong Won, this film offers a thrilling opportunity to witness the actor step outside his comfort zone and embrace a chilling new chapter in his career.