Lee Jong Suk is not just an actor; he is a phenomenon. From walking the runway as a teenager to becoming one of the most celebrated faces in K-Dramas, his journey is a masterclass in determination and resilience. With an impressive portfolio of hit dramas, an ever-growing international fanbase, and an undeniable charm, he has carved his place as a true Hallyu star.
This story delves into the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments that have shaped Lee Jong Suk’s extraordinary career.
The Unexpected Beginnings: A Young Boy with Big Dreams
A Future in Sports That Never Happened
Born on September 14, 1989, in Yongin, South Korea, Lee Jong Suk had an entirely different career in mind as a child. He trained in taekwondo for years and was on the path to becoming a professional athlete. However, an unfortunate injury shattered those dreams, leaving him at a crossroads.
Fashion’s Youngest Trailblazer
At just 15 years old, he turned to modeling, becoming the youngest male model to debut at Seoul Fashion Week. With his towering height, striking visuals, and graceful presence, he quickly became a favorite in the industry. Yet, deep down, his heart longed for acting.
Breaking Barriers: The Hard Road to Stardom
Facing Rejection and Doubt
Despite his success as a model, breaking into the world of acting was no easy feat. He auditioned for numerous roles, only to be met with constant rejections. Casting directors doubted his ability to transition from modeling to acting.
But Lee Jong Suk refused to give up. He honed his skills through rigorous acting classes and took on small roles to prove his worth.
A Glimpse Into His Personal Life
A Private and Reserved Star
Unlike many celebrities who frequently share their personal lives, Lee Jong Suk prefers to keep things private. He is known for his introverted personality and often expresses how he enjoys spending time alone rather than attending big events or social gatherings.
His Love for Books and Writing
A lesser-known fact about him is his deep love for literature. He has openly shared that reading and writing are his escapes from the pressures of fame. He has even expressed interest in writing scripts and stories in the future.
Ideal Type and Views on Love
Though he has never confirmed a relationship, Lee Jong Suk has spoken about his ideal type. He prefers someone intelligent, kind-hearted, and independent. He once mentioned in an interview that he believes love should be natural and effortless, rather than forced.
Close Friendship Circle
Despite his reserved nature, he has built strong friendships in the entertainment industry. He is particularly close to actors Kim Woo Bin, Park Shin Hye, and Yoon Kyun Sang. His friendship with Kim Woo Bin is especially well-known, as the two have supported each other through thick and thin.
The Life-Changing Role in School 2013
His perseverance paid off when he landed the role of Go Nam Soon in School 2013. The high school drama became a massive hit, and his raw, emotional performance struck a chord with audiences. Finally, he had the breakthrough he had been waiting for.
The Meteoric Rise to K-Drama Royalty
Winning Hearts with I Can Hear Your Voice
In 2013, Lee Jong Suk starred as Park Soo Ha in I Can Hear Your Voice, a drama that would cement his status as a top-tier actor. His role as a young man with the ability to read minds showcased his exceptional talent, earning him critical acclaim and prestigious awards.
Hit After Hit: The Ultimate Leading Man
Following his success, he continued delivering blockbuster performances in dramas that became instant fan favorites:
- Doctor Stranger (2014) – A gripping medical drama where he played a North Korean surgeon.
- Pinocchio (2014-2015) – A touching romance where he portrayed a journalist fighting against media corruption.
- W (2016) – A fantasy thriller where he played a webtoon character who crosses into reality.
- While You Were Sleeping (2017) – A legal drama where he portrayed a prosecutor with a painful past.
- Romance Is a Bonus Book (2019) – A heartwarming story about second chances in love and career.
Each of these dramas reinforced his position as one of the most bankable stars in South Korea.
The Man Behind the Stardom: Funny Moments and Scandals
Hilarious and Unforgettable Moments
Lee Jong Suk is not just a serious actor; he has an unexpectedly goofy side that fans adore. Some of his funniest moments include:
- Epic Laughing Fits – He often bursts into uncontrollable laughter during interviews, making them even more entertaining.
- Spoiler King – He has accidentally revealed drama plot twists during live broadcasts, leaving co-stars panicking.
- Dancing Fails – Despite not being a dancer, his hilarious attempts at K-pop choreography have gone viral.
- Awkwardly Cute Fan Interactions – His flustered and shy reactions to fan encounters make him even more lovable.
The Scandals That Had Fans Talking
While Lee Jong Suk maintains a clean image, he has had his fair share of controversies:
- Military Service Debate (2019) – His alternative service due to health reasons sparked discussions online.
- Dating Rumors with Top Actresses – He has been romantically linked to stars like Han Hyo Joo and Suzy, but never confirmed a relationship.
- Tax Evasion Allegations (2016) – A brief investigation put him in the spotlight, but he was later cleared of any wrongdoing.
Despite these incidents, his genuine personality and talent have kept his loyal fanbase intact.
The Hiatus That Left Fans Waiting
Military Service and a Two-Year Absence
In 2019, at the peak of his career, Lee Jong Suk enlisted for his mandatory military service. Fans eagerly awaited his return, counting down the days until he could grace the screen again.
The Grand Comeback: Big Mouth
After completing his service in 2021, he returned stronger than ever with Big Mouth (2022), a suspenseful drama where he played a lawyer caught in a deadly conspiracy. The drama was an instant hit, proving that his star power was as strong as ever.
More Than Just an Actor: Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Building His Own Empire with A-Man Project
Lee Jong Suk is not just a talented actor; he’s a smart businessman. He founded his own talent agency, A-Man Project, allowing him greater control over his career while also supporting emerging artists. Through A-Man Project, he has successfully managed his career and expanded his influence in the entertainment industry.
Expanding His Business Ventures
Beyond acting and talent management, Lee Jong Suk has also invested in several businesses. He owns a high-end café called 89 Mansion in Seoul, which quickly became a favorite spot for fans and celebrities. His involvement in the hospitality industry showcases his entrepreneurial mindset and business acumen.
A Heart of Gold: Giving Back to Society
Despite his fame, he remains humble and deeply committed to charitable work. He has donated millions to causes such as:
- Supporting underprivileged children
- Disaster relief efforts
- Scholarships for students in need
The Legacy of Lee Jong Suk: A Star That Continues to Shine
From an uncertain teenager to one of South Korea’s most beloved actors, Lee Jong Suk’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and passion. With his remarkable talent and undeniable charm, his legacy in the entertainment industry is far from over. Fans can’t wait to see what he does next!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lee Jong Suk
