Lee Dong-Wook (born November 5, 1981) is a highly acclaimed Korean actor, model, host, and entertainer who has achieved significant popularity in the Korean entertainment industry. Throughout his career, he has garnered attention and acclaim for his exceptional performances in various roles.
Lee Dong-wook’s talent and charm have propelled him to the forefront of the Korean entertainment scene. He has demonstrated his acting prowess in numerous films and television dramas, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Some of his notable roles include appearances in films such as “Tale of the Anime Tailed,” “Bad Crazy,” and “Hell is Other People.” These performances showcased his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters.
In addition to his success in acting, Lee Dong-Wook has also made a name for himself as a model, captivating audiences with his striking looks and charismatic presence. His modeling career has seen him collaborate with renowned brands and grace the covers of various magazines.
Early Life & Education
Lee was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, into a middle-class family. He grew up alongside his siblings, being the oldest among them. His youngest sister found her passion in the entertainment business.
Lee completed his secondary education at Shinil High School and pursued a degree in Broadcasting Media Arts at Joongbu University.
While at Shinil High School, Lee actively participated in extracurricular activities and developed leadership skills. At Joongbu University, he immersed himself in his studies, acquiring knowledge in various aspects of media and broadcasting. Lee eagerly sought practical experiences through internships and projects, gaining hands-on expertise.
With a solid educational foundation and a passion for media, Lee was well-prepared to enter the industry. He looked forward to utilizing his skills, making his mark, and contributing to the dynamic world of entertainment and broadcasting.
Career
Lee Dong-wook began working in the entertainment industry in 1999, making his debut in the MBC single-episode drama, garnering a dedicated fan base both in Korea and internationally.
Lee Dong-wook’s breakthrough role came in 2005 when he starred as the charismatic and endearing character Seol Gong-chan in the popular drama series “My Girl.” The series received critical acclaim, and Lee’s portrayal of Gong-chan earned him widespread recognition and established him as a rising star.
Continuing his success, Lee Dong-wook took on various challenging roles in subsequent years. He displayed versatility by delving into diverse genres and showcasing his acting prowess. Notable dramas in his career include “Scent of a Woman” (2011), where he played the role of a stoic doctor, and “Hotel King” (2014), where he portrayed a hotel manager seeking revenge.
However, it was his portrayal of the Grim Reaper in the 2016 fantasy romance drama “Goblin” (also known as “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God”) that propelled Lee Dong-Wook to even greater fame and popularity. His charismatic and mysterious performance captivated audiences, earning him critical acclaim and a significant fan following both domestically and internationally.
In addition to his television work, Lee Dong-wook has made notable appearances in films. He showcased his acting range in the romantic fantasy film “The Beauty Inside” (2015), where he played a supporting role, and he portrayed a god in the blockbuster fantasy film “Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds” (2017) and its sequel.
In 2020, Lee Dong-Wook was selected for the role of Lee Yeon in the top-rated original Netflix series, “Tales of the Nine-Tailed.” The show featured an ensemble cast that included several esteemed Korean actors, such as Kim Bum, Jo Bo-ah, Younghoon, Lee Tae-ri, Hwang Hee, and Kim Yong-ji.
The series, released in 2023, quickly gained immense popularity, becoming one of the most-watched K-drama series of the year. Lee Dong-wook’s portrayal of Lee Yeon captivated audiences, showcasing his exceptional acting skills and ability to bring depth to his character.
The success of “Tales of the Nine-Tailed” further solidified Lee Dong-wook’s position as a prominent figure in the Korean entertainment industry. The series’s popularity contributed to his growing international fan base and served as a testament to his talent and widespread appeal.
Filmography
- Arang
- The Recipe
- Heartbreak Library
- Ghost (Be with Me)
- The Perfect Couple
- The Recipe
- The Fugitive: Plan B
- The Wrath
- Life
- The Sound of a Flower
- Single in Seoul
- The Recipe
- The Beauty Inside
- The Fairy and the Woodcutter
- Happy New Year
- The Perfect Couple
- Life is Beautiful
- Tales of the Nine Taled
Personal Life
Lee Dong-wook’s personal life has garnered attention and speculation over the years. In 2009, as is expected of all Korean males, he fulfilled his mandatory military service obligations, joining the military training center in Nonsan, Chuncheong Province. He dedicated two years to his service and completed it in 2011, fulfilling his duty to the country.
Regarding his romantic relationships, Lee Dong-Wook has had a few experiences. Currently, he is single and not involved in any confirmed relationship. However, rumors have circulated regarding his past romantic involvements. One such rumor involved actress Lee Da-Hae, with whom he was speculated to be in a relationship. Another rumor linked him to Suzy Bae, a former girl group Miss A member and a singer. In 2019, it was reported that Lee Dong-Wook and Suzy Bae had decided to go their separate ways but remained close friends, maintaining a cordial relationship.
In addition to these rumored relationships, there have been speculations about Lee Dong-wook’s involvement with other women. Some of the names that have been associated with him romantically include Lee Da-Hae, Jessica Jung (formerly of the group Girls’ Generation), Kim Hyundai-Joo, Yoo In-Na, and Kim Sun-ah. However, it is important to note that these rumors and speculations should be taken with caution, as the personal lives of celebrities can often be subject to inaccuracies and conjecture.
Social Media
- Instagram @leedongwook_official
- Facebook @Lee dong-wook official
- Twitter @LEEDONGWOOK__
Net Worth
Lee Dong-wook has an accumulated net worth of about US$10 million.