Lee Joon Hyuk shared his honest thoughts about playing an ordinary office worker who wins the lottery but chooses to keep his job in the upcoming TVING series “The Ordinary Jackpot.” The actor spoke about the pressure of leading the drama and why he feels a deep connection to his character during the production presentation held on September 8 at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul.
“The Ordinary Jackpot” follows Gong Eun Tae (Lee Joon Hyuk), a team leader at Sales Team 5 of Hongsung International who has been struggling to survive each day under pressure from both his superiors and subordinates. His life takes an unexpected turn when he wins 1.3 billion won (approximately $946,000 to $950,000) in the lottery. But instead of quitting his job, he shows up to work the very next day with a completely different mindset.
The drama, based on a popular web novel of the same name, takes a fresh approach to the workplace genre. Director Yoon Young Bin, who wrote and directed the series, confirmed that the show has no romance and no clear villain. The story focuses on ordinary people whose good intentions clash rather than a battle between good and evil.
Lee Joon Hyuk Relates to His Character After 20 Years in Industry
Lee Joon Hyuk said he found many similarities between himself and his character Gong Eun Tae. The actor has been working in the entertainment industry for nearly 20 years and has appeared in more than 50 projects.
“I think there are many ways in which I’m similar to Eun-tae. I’ve been working for nearly 20 years and have appeared in more than 50 projects. I’m someone who has always worked. There were many parts of Eun-tae’s dialogue that felt similar to my own life.”
The actor explained that working constantly has become his normal way of life. He finds ordinary hardships, joys, and everyday moments in his career, just like his character does in the office.
When asked about the pressure of playing the lead role, Lee Joon Hyuk admitted that the responsibility is the same with every project.
“The pressure is the same with every project. I always think that I have to do my best.”
He noted a key difference between this role and his previous character in “Dongjae, the Good or the Bastard.” While Dongjae moved forward on his own, teamwork became important this time. He received a lot of help from his colleagues throughout the production.
Sales Team 5 Brings Tension and Chemistry to the Office
New stills released by the production team introduce the members of Sales Team 5, each bringing their own personality and conflicts to the workplace.
Gong Eun Tae (Lee Joon Hyuk) quietly carries on with his work while suppressing his emotions behind an expressionless face. Assistant Manager Yang Joon Ho (Seo Hyun Woo) wears a sharp expression that openly shows his dissatisfaction. Despite being Gong Eun Tae’s subordinate, Yang Joon Ho joined the company before him and often pushes his team leader around, adding tension to their dynamic.
The two new employees bring fresh energy to the team. Park Ki Tae (Hong Jin Ki) is an ambitious newcomer who wants to excel at everything. Though still inexperienced, his bright smile and energetic attitude bring a fresh spark to Sales Team 5. Contract employee Lee Ji Hye (Ha Yul Ri) demonstrates remarkable diligence, carefully taking notes and dreaming of landing a permanent position.
Lee Joon Hyuk pointed to the overall chemistry of Sales Team 5 as a key point to watch.
“At first, they seem to clash and not fit together, but it would be good to watch the process of them getting to know each other and fitting in well.”
Seo Hyun Woo added that each member of Sales Team 5 has their own story and appeal, making their ensemble performance exciting to watch.
A K-Drama Without Romance or Villains
Director Yoon Young Bin made it clear that “The Ordinary Jackpot” breaks away from typical K-drama formulas. The series has no romance at all, despite the original web novel including it. Instead, the show focuses on realistic workplace dynamics and how people with good intentions can still clash.
The director also addressed Lee Joon Hyuk’s casting as an ordinary office worker. He said acting ability and similarity to the character mattered more than looks, praising the actor’s professionalism and preparation.
Lee Joon Hyuk described his character as someone who lives diligently and works harder than anyone else.
“He is an ordinary office worker who lives more diligently and works harder than anyone else. He may seem frustrating to some, but he is fiercely dedicated to the work he is responsible for and always gives it his all.”
The actor explained his approach to the role, saying he prepared with the feeling of welcoming guests to the drama. He spent a lot of time thinking about how to create synergy with the other actors and how to portray Eun Tae’s subtle emotional shifts without making them feel too stark.
Release Information for Global Audiences
“The Ordinary Jackpot” will premiere on September 10, 2026. The series will be available on multiple platforms for viewers around the world.
Streaming release:
- TVING at 6:00 PM KST on September 10
- Viki on September 10
- Available on Netflix in some regions
Television broadcast:
- tvN starting September 14 at 9:00 PM KST
- New episodes air every Monday and Tuesday
The series will run for 10 episodes. For viewers in the United States, the streaming time will be early morning depending on your time zone. UK viewers can expect the release in the morning hours. Australia and India viewers should check their local streaming platforms for availability.
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What Makes This Drama Different
“The Ordinary Jackpot” stands out because of its realistic take on workplace life. The lottery win gives Gong Eun Tae financial freedom, but instead of walking away, he gains a new perspective on his daily routine.
Lee Joon Hyuk shared what he would do if he won the lottery in real life. He said he would invest in productions. He compared a lottery win to the success of a hit project, noting that work and responsibility would continue even after a major breakthrough.
The drama also explores an interesting question: What would you do if you won a large amount of money but not enough to completely change your life? The 1.3 billion won prize is significant but not life-altering enough to walk away from work entirely. This relatable situation forms the core of the story.
The production team released a teaser poster and trailer on August 12, generating buzz among viewers. The poster cleverly places Gong Eun Tae’s employee ID card alongside his winning lottery ticket, capturing the drama’s unique premise.
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