Lee Jong-suk Biography (2025–2026): Early Life, Career, Struggles, Military, Comeback & Full Profile
Table of Contents
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Introduction
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Early Life & Background
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Modelling Beginnings (2005–2010)
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Acting Breakthrough (2011–2013)
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Mainstream Popularity & Major Roles (2014–2018)
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Military Service & Hiatus (2019–2021)
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Comeback & Recent Projects (2022–present)
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Awards & Recognition (Chart)
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Personal Life, Struggles & Philanthropy
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Career Impact & Legacy
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Final Thoughts
1. Introduction
Lee Jong-suk stands as one of the most recognizable names in the world of Korean drama and entertainment—a model-turned-actor whose journey is marked by ambition, challenge, reinvention, and consistent growth. From debuting on the runway to leading top-tier dramas, his story resonates with fans not only for his on-screen charisma but also for his off-screen resilience.
2. Early Life & Background
Lee Jong-suk was born on 14 September 1989 in Yongin (Gyeonggi Province), South Korea.
He attended Yangjae High School and later entered Konkuk University, majoring in Professional Motion Pictures and Art, graduating in 2016.
From a young age, his tall stature (186 cm) and model-like look drew attention, and he was driven by a desire to act rather than only model. Despite early modelling success, he carried ambitions to build a lasting career as an actor.
3. Modelling Beginnings (2005–2010)
At just 15 years old, Lee made his runway debut in 2005, becoming one of the youngest male models to walk Seoul Collection during Seoul Fashion Week.
He trained briefly as a potential idol group member but eventually pivoted fully into modeling and acting. His early modeling years gave him confidence in front of the camera, discipline in presentation, and industry exposure.
4. Acting Breakthrough (2011–2013)
Though he made minor acting appearances earlier, his first major acting recognition came in 2012 with the TV drama School 2013, where he played a high school student dealing with academic pressure and teenage conflict.
In 2013 his star rose further with the blockbuster drama I Can Hear Your Voice, in which he portrayed a young man with mind-reading ability. This series was a huge hit and marked the transition from rising actor to public favorite.
These years were crucial: the mix of high-stakes narrative, relatable character arc, and his youthful presence captured the attention of the Hallyu-wave audience.
5. Mainstream Popularity & Major Roles (2014–2018)
Between 2014 and 2018, Lee undertook a string of high-profile dramas and projects that cemented his status:
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Doctor Stranger (2014): He played a North Korean defector turned doctor in South Korea, a bold and intense role.
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Pinocchio (2014): He portrayed a young reporter grappling with truth and lies in media—praised for complexity.
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W (2016): Tackled a meta-mystery crossover between real and comic book worlds—his role brought mature dimension.
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While You Were Sleeping (2017): Pairing with top actresses, a drama about premonitions, fate, and law—popular across Asia.
These roles displayed his range—from romance and teen angst to thriller and fantasy—earning respect from critics and fans alike.
6. Military Service & Hiatus (2019–2021)
In March 2019, Lee began his mandatory military service on 8 March 2019, serving as a public service officer (due to a prior knee injury from a car accident at age 16). He was discharged on 2 January 2021.
During this period he stepped back from major headlines, which allowed him to reflect, recharge, and prepare for a return. This hiatus is often described by fans as a “second debut” period.
7. Comeback & Recent Projects (2022–present)
After his return, Lee returned with strong projects, including the 2022 drama Big Mouth, and in 2025, the new series Law and the City, which marked his comeback as the lead in a legal thriller and earned wide attention.
In August 2025, he scored a high brand-reputation index (#2 actor in rankings) according to the Korean Business Research Institute.
These recent roles show a shift: from youthful leading roles to mature, complex characters tackling real-world issues—reinforcing his evolution as an actor.
8. Awards & Recognition (Chart)
Here’s a chart summarizing selected awards and recognitions:
| Year | Award Ceremony | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | KBS Drama Awards | Best New Actor | School 2013 | Won |
| 2014 | Asia Model Awards | Model Star Award | — | Won |
| 2016 | MBC Drama Awards | Grand Prize (Daesang) | W | Won |
| 2022 | A-Awards | Charisma | Big Mouth | Won |
| 2025 | Brand Reputation Rankings | #2 Actor | Law and the City | Ranked |
These accolades not only highlight his popularity but also his professional growth and versatility.
9. Personal Life, Struggles & Philanthropy
Lee has been open about personal struggles—his car accident at age 16 left a lasting knee injury, influencing his military service eligibility.
He’s known for philanthropic actions—donating ₩100 million to wildfire-affected regions in March 2022.
In his private life, while rumors have circulated (e.g., with singer IU), he remains low-key, focusing on craft rather than scandal.
His struggle is not only physical (injury) but also professional—protecting his image, choosing roles wisely, and surviving the “model-to-actor” transition.
10. Career Impact & Legacy
Lee Jong-suk’s journey has influenced younger Korean actors by showing that one can transition successfully from modeling to serious acting.
He helped expand the Hallyu wave internationally through roles that appeal across borders.
His decisions to select diverse roles, step away when needed, and then return amplified his credibility.
Many industry observers now see him as a “bridge actor” between 2010s idol-style dramas and the more mature 2020s storytelling era.
11. Final Thoughts
From running the runway at 15 to commanding screens across Asia, Lee Jong-suk’s career is a story of transformation, grit, and adaptability.
He reminds us that popularity is only the beginning—sustained success comes with evolution, humility, and strategy.
As he continues into the next decade, fans and critics alike will watch how he reinvents himself again—perhaps as a mentor, producer, or global star.
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