Hey Lykkers, have you ever wondered how Lee Jong Suk became one of Korea’s most popular actors?

Today, we’ll take a close look at his life and career, from a young model to a respected actor known for his incredible talent and charming presence.

A Young Star on the Runway

Lee Jong Suk was born in 1989 in Suwon, South Korea. When he was only 16, he was spotted by a talent scout and quickly became the youngest male model to appear on the Seoul Collection runway. His tall and elegant look made him stand out immediately. Even though modeling brought him early fame, Lee Jong Suk dreamed of acting from a young age and stayed committed to that goal.

Turning Dreams into Reality

While modeling offered a smooth path, Lee Jong Suk chose to pursue acting seriously. He even thought about debuting as a singer but decided acting was his true passion. In 2010, he entered Konkuk University to study film and acting, taking concrete steps toward his dream.

Breaking Into Acting

His first TV role was in the drama Prosecutor Princess in 2010, where he played a supporting role. The next year, he appeared in Secret Garden as a music producer with a short but memorable role. His brief line, “I’m busy, go away,” became famous among fans, showing how even small parts can leave a big impression.

Rising Fame with Youth Drama

In 2012, Lee Jong Suk starred in School 2013, playing a key character that connected deeply with viewers. This drama helped him gain recognition and showed his acting skills. In 2013, he got his first leading role in I Can Hear Your Voice, which won him several awards and cemented his status as a rising star.

Expanding His Range

Between 2014 and 2016, Lee Jong Suk took on many different roles. In Doctor Stranger and Pinocchio, he demonstrated emotional depth, earning awards and praise. His role in W: Two Worlds as a character jumping between worlds was especially popular, showcasing his ability to handle complex and exciting stories.

Challenging Himself with Dark Roles

In 2017, he surprised many by playing a cold and ruthless villain in the movie V.I.P. This bold choice proved his versatility as an actor. That year, he also became a Korean tourism ambassador, helping promote his country’s beauty to the world.

Taking Control of His Career

After leaving YG Entertainment in 2018, Lee Jong Suk started his own agency, A-Man Project, to manage his career independently. He starred in Hymn of Death and, in 2019, took on his first romantic comedy with Romance Is a Bonus Book, winning hearts once again.

A Strong Comeback

After completing his national service, Lee Jong Suk returned to the screen in 2022 with Big Mouth, playing a lawyer caught in a thrilling mystery. His powerful performance reminded everyone why he remains one of Korea’s top actors.

Looking Ahead

Today, Lee Jong Suk is with Ace Factory and continues to grow his career. His journey from a young model to a respected actor is a story of dedication and passion. We can all learn from his persistence and belief in himself.

What’s Your Favorite Lee Jong Suk Role?

Lykkers, which of Lee Jong Suk’s dramas or movies touched you the most? Share your thoughts! We look forward to seeing more amazing performances from him in the future—and maybe we’ll be inspired to chase our own dreams just like he did.

What Happened To Lee Jong Suk? | 2025 UPDATE

Video by Albert Nazz