Lee Jung-jae

About

Lee Jung-jae is a distinguished South Korean actor, acclaimed for his versatile performances in both television and film. Born on December 15, 1972, in Seoul, South Korea, Lee has garnered international fame and critical acclaim over his extensive career. Notably, he rose to global prominence with his role in the massively popular Netflix series "Squid Game," where he played Seong Gi-Hun, the series’ protagonist. His compelling portrayal of a man caught in a deadly survival game captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying his status as a global star.

Before Fame

Before Lee Jung-jae transitioned into acting, he initially pursued a career in modeling and was discovered while working at a cafe in Apgujeong. He quickly made a name for himself in the fashion industry due to his striking looks and charismatic presence. His debut in the entertainment industry came in 1993 with the television drama Dinosaur Teacher, which paved the way for his entrance into film. His breakthrough role came with the 1999 film City of the Rising Sun, for which he won numerous awards, including the Best Actor award at the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

Trivia

• Lee Jung-jae made his film debut in "The Young Man" (1994), directed by Bae Chang-ho.
• He co-owns a chain of Italian restaurants in Seoul named Il Mare, which is also the title of one of his popular films.
• In addition to his acting career, Lee is a successful entrepreneur and has ventured into real estate development.
• Lee Jung-jae has a close friendship with fellow actor Jung Woo-sung, having collaborated with him on various projects, including the hit film "City of the Rising Sun."

Family Life

While Lee Jung-jae is well-known for his professional achievements, he is relatively private about his personal life. He was educated at Dongguk University, where he later returned to pursue a master’s degree in Theatre and Film. Lee has a deep appreciation for his family but chooses to keep details about them out of the public eye. This discretion has helped him maintain a balance between his public persona and private life.

Associated With

Lee Jung-jae’s career includes collaborations with some of the most respected figures in the South Korean entertainment industry. He has starred alongside Kim Jong Moon in "The Face Reader," and worked with renowned director Park Hoon-jung in the critically acclaimed film "New World." His role in "Squid Game" brought him into the global spotlight, associating him with Netflix’s international roster of actors, and marking a significant crossover into mainstream international recognition.

Lee Jung-jae’s illustrious career continues to evolve, and his contributions to film and television remain influential in both his home country and around the world.