Lee Jung-jae

Lee Jung-jae: A Comprehensive Look at the Acclaimed South Korean Actor

Early Life and Education

Lee Jung-jae (이정재) was born on December 15, 1972, in Seoul, South Korea. He pursued a degree in interior design at Dongguk University, showcasing an early interest in the arts and aesthetics .

Career Beginnings

Lee's entry into the entertainment industry began serendipitously when he was discovered by designer Ha Yong-soo while working at a café in Seoul's Apgujeong district. This encounter led to a successful modeling career, which eventually transitioned into acting .

Rise to Prominence

Lee made his acting debut in the 1993 television drama Dinosaur Teacher. His breakout role came in 1995 with the critically acclaimed series Sandglass, where his portrayal of a devoted bodyguard captivated audiences and solidified his status as a rising star in South Korea .

Film Career

Throughout his career, Lee has demonstrated remarkable versatility, taking on diverse roles across various genres. Notable films include:

• An Affair (1998)

• City of the Rising Sun (1999)

• Il Mare (2000)

• The Housemaid (2010)

• The Thieves (2012)

• New World (2013)

• The Face Reader (2013)

• Assassination (2015)

• Deliver Us from Evil (2020)

In 2022, Lee made his directorial debut with the spy thriller Hunt, in which he also starred. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and was well-received by audiences .

International Recognition

Lee achieved global fame with his role as Seong Gi-hun in Netflix's Squid Game (2021). His performance earned him several accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, making him the first Asian actor to win in this category .

In 2024, Lee expanded his international presence by portraying Jedi Master Sol in the Disney+ series The Acolyte, marking his first English-speaking role .

Business Ventures

Beyond acting, Lee is an accomplished entrepreneur. He has launched a chain of upscale Italian restaurants in Seoul, drawing inspiration from his film Il Mare. In 2008, he founded the real estate development company Seorim C&D. Additionally, Lee co-founded the entertainment label Artist Company with fellow actor Jung Woo-sung in 2016 .

Philanthropy

Lee is actively involved in philanthropic efforts. In March 2022, he donated a significant sum to the Hope Bridge Disaster Relief Association to aid victims of wildfires in South Korea. Later that year, he joined the Hope Bridge Honors Club, recognizing major donors who have contributed over a certain amount to disaster relief efforts .

Personal Life

Lee maintains a relatively private personal life. He is known for his close friendship and professional collaborations with actor Jung Woo-sung. Together, they have worked on multiple projects and business ventures, including the founding of Artist Company .

Legacy

Lee Jung-jae's journey from a café worker to an internationally acclaimed actor and director is a testament to his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. His contributions to both South Korean cinema and global entertainment continue to inspire audiences worldwide.