Lee Jong-suk is a name that has become synonymous with success in the South Korean entertainment industry. With his striking looks, acting talent, and a career that spans over a decade, Lee Jong-suk has won the hearts of millions both in South Korea and internationally. He is one of the most recognizable figures in the Korean Wave (Hallyu), a global phenomenon that has brought Korean culture and entertainment to the forefront of the world stage.
From his beginnings as a model to becoming a top actor in K-dramas and films, Lee Jong-suk’s career trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. His rise to fame is a testament to his hard work, versatility, and charm. As we take a closer look at his journey, we will explore his early life, career milestones, notable works, and the factors that make Lee Jong-suk a beloved figure in the entertainment world.
Early Life and Career Beginnings Lee Jong-suk
Born on September 14, 1989, in Seoul, South Korea, Lee Jong-suk was drawn to the world of entertainment from an early age. Despite his interest in acting, Lee initially pursued a career in modeling, which was not an uncommon path for many aspiring actors in South Korea. At the age of 15, Lee Jong-suk became one of the youngest male models to walk the runway at Seoul Fashion Week. His sharp features, tall stature (he stands at 6 feet, or 183 cm), and charisma quickly garnered attention in the fashion world, which laid the foundation for his future in show business depobos.
While modeling provided him with initial fame, Lee Jong-suk harbored aspirations of becoming an actor. He soon began auditioning for roles in television dramas and films. His first significant breakthrough came in 2010 when he landed a supporting role in the television series Prosecutor Princess, marking his entry into acting. His performance caught the attention of industry professionals and audiences, setting the stage for his future career as an actor.
Breaking Through with School 2013
Lee Jong-suk’s big break in acting came in 2012 when he was cast in the highly popular K-drama School 2013. In this drama, he played the character of Go Nam-soon, a troubled but talented high school student. The series, which focused on the challenges faced by students and teachers in the Korean education system, was well-received and became a huge hit both in Korea and internationally. Lee Jong-suk’s portrayal of Go Nam-soon won him widespread recognition and established him as one of the top rising stars in the Korean entertainment industry.
School 2013 was a turning point for Lee Jong-suk, as it showcased his impressive acting range. He was able to capture the complexities of his character, who was both rebellious and sensitive, and earned praise for his emotional depth and sincerity in the role. His success in School 2013 opened doors to more prominent acting opportunities and solidified his place in the K-drama world.
Rise to Stardom: I Can Hear Your Voice and Pinocchio
After his success in School 2013, Lee Jong-suk went on to star in several high-profile K-dramas that further cemented his status as a leading actor. In 2013, he starred in the hit series I Can Hear Your Voice, where he played Park Soo-ha, a young man with the ability to hear people’s thoughts. The drama, which blended romance, suspense, and legal drama, was a massive success, and Lee Jong-suk’s performance received widespread praise. His portrayal of the introspective and kind-hearted Park Soo-ha resonated with viewers, and the series helped him gain a larger fanbase in South Korea and overseas.
The success of I Can Hear Your Voice was followed by another major hit in 2014, Pinocchio. In this drama, Lee Jong-suk played the role of Choi Dal-po, a talented reporter with a tragic past. Pinocchio was a critical and commercial success, and Lee Jong-suk’s chemistry with co-star Park Shin-hye was widely praised. His performance as the ambitious yet compassionate Dal-po earned him several accolades, including the prestigious SBS Drama Awards, where he won the Top Excellence Award for his role.
Both I Can Hear Your Voice and Pinocchio showcased Lee Jong-suk’s versatility as an actor, as he effortlessly shifted between roles that required both emotional depth and comedic timing. These dramas also demonstrated his ability to tackle complex characters and storylines, which helped solidify his place as one of the most sought-after actors in the industry.
Expanding His Career: Films and International Recognition
While Lee Jong-suk’s success in television dramas has been nothing short of impressive, he has also made notable strides in the world of film. In 2016, he starred in the action-thriller film V.I.P., directed by Park Hoon-jung. In the film, Lee Jong-suk portrayed a North Korean defector, and his performance as a cold and calculating character was a departure from his usual roles. V.I.P. was well-received by audiences and helped Lee Jong-suk expand his career beyond the small screen.
In addition to his work in films, Lee Jong-suk’s international popularity has grown significantly over the years. His participation in global events such as fan meetings, international award shows, and promotional campaigns has garnered him fans from all corners of the world. His popularity in countries such as China, Thailand, and the Philippines is a testament to the global appeal of Korean dramas and Lee Jong-suk’s universal charm.
Notable K-Dramas and More Recent Work
After Pinocchio, Lee Jong-suk continued to star in successful K-dramas. In 2016, he starred in the romantic drama W, alongside actress Han Hyo-joo. The drama, which was based on a webtoon, centered around the story of a surgeon who becomes involved in a virtual reality world. Lee Jong-suk played the role of Kang Chul, a character who exists within a fictional universe. W became one of the highest-rated K-dramas of 2016 and was praised for its unique concept, as well as for Lee Jong-suk’s performance. His ability to portray a character caught between two worlds was widely lauded by both critics and viewers.
Lee Jong-suk’s more recent works include While You Were Sleeping (2017), where he starred alongside actress Suzy Bae. In this drama, Lee Jong-suk played a prosecutor who tries to prevent bad things from happening after having vivid dreams of future events. The show was another hit, and Lee Jong-suk’s natural charisma and compelling performance earned him more accolades.
In 2021, Lee Jong-suk returned to the small screen with the highly anticipated drama Romance Is a Bonus Book, where he played the role of Cha Eun-ho, a young, successful editor at a publishing company. This drama marked his return to the romantic-comedy genre, and it was a breath of fresh air for fans who had followed his career for years. His charming portrayal of Cha Eun-ho further solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond his successful career, Lee Jong-suk is known for his humble personality and philanthropic efforts. He is often praised for his kind-heartedness and generosity. In 2016, he made a significant donation to help support children with cancer, further showcasing his dedication to giving back to society. He has also been involved in several charity events and campaigns, using his platform to raise awareness for various social causes.
Lee Jong-suk’s popularity has only grown over the years, thanks to his hard work, dedication, and commitment to his craft. His ability to seamlessly transition between different genres, from action thrillers to heartwarming romances, has kept audiences engaged and eagerly anticipating his next project.
Conclusion
Lee Jong-suk’s journey from a model to a top actor is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and unwavering passion for his craft. With his boyish charm, emotional depth, and undeniable screen presence, he has become one of the most prominent figures in Korean entertainment. Whether he is playing a prosecutor with the ability to see the future or a complex character caught in a fictional universe, Lee Jong-suk brings his roles to life with authenticity and flair.
As Lee Jong-suk continues to take on diverse and challenging roles, his legacy in the Korean entertainment industry is secure. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring actors, proving that with dedication, versatility, and talent, anyone can achieve greatness. As fans eagerly await his next project, one thing is certain: Lee Jong-suk will continue to shine in the entertainment industry for years to come.
