Lee Jong Suk: From Runway Model To K-Drama Star!

Mr. Erik Oberbrunner II 11 May 2025

Ever wondered how someone can effortlessly transition from the runway to stealing hearts on screen? Lee Jong Suk, the South Korean actor and model, embodies this transformation perfectly, captivating audiences with his unique blend of youthful charm and mature charisma.

Lee Jong Suk's journey is a testament to talent meeting opportunity. His early entry into the world of modeling paved the way for an acting career that has seen him rise to become one of South Korea's most sought-after stars. From his groundbreaking debut as the youngest male model at Seoul Fashion Week in 2005 to his critically acclaimed roles in dramas like "School 2013," "I Can Hear Your Voice," and "W," Lee Jong Suk's career is a study in versatility and dedication. His ability to portray a wide range of characters, from high school students to complex professionals, has solidified his status as a leading figure in the Korean entertainment industry.

Category	Information
Full Name	Lee Jong Suk (\uc774\uc885\uc11d)
Date of Birth	September 14, 1989
Place of Birth	Suwon, Gyeonggi, South Korea
Occupation	Actor, Model
Years Active	2005present
Agency	A-man Project
Education	Konkuk University Professional Motion Pictures and Art
Height	186 cm (6 ft 1 in)
Instagram	@jongsuk0206
Notable Roles	Go Nam-soon in "School 2013" Park Soo-ha in "I Can Hear Your Voice" Choi Dal-po in "Pinocchio" Kang Chul in "W" Park Chang-ho in "Big Mouth"
Awards	Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries (I Can Hear Your Voice) - Korea Drama Awards 2013 Most Popular Actor (Pinocchio) - Baeksang Arts Awards 2015 Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries (W) - MBC Drama Awards 2016 Grand Prize (Daesang) (Big Mouth) - MBC Drama Awards 2022
Official Website	Instagram

Lee Jong Suk's journey began on the runways of Seoul Fashion Week in 2005. At the tender age of 15, he became the youngest male model to ever grace the catwalk, a feat that immediately set him apart. He was lauded for possessing a rare quality: an ability to project both the innocence of youth and the gravitas of adulthood. This duality became a defining characteristic, one that would serve him well as he transitioned into acting.

His transition from modeling to acting wasn't immediate. He spent a period honing his craft, taking on minor roles and building a foundation for what would become a prolific career. He made his official acting debut in 2010 with appearances in the dramas "Prosecutor Princess" and "Secret Garden." Though these roles were small, they provided invaluable experience and exposure, setting the stage for his breakthrough.

The year 2012 marked a turning point in Lee Jong Suk's career. He landed a significant role in the drama "School 2013," a teen drama that explored the lives and struggles of high school students. His portrayal of Go Nam-soon, a student with a complex past and a close bond with his classmate, resonated deeply with audiences. The drama's exploration of friendship, bullying, and the pressures of adolescence, coupled with Lee Jong Suk's nuanced performance, earned him critical acclaim and established him as a rising star.

Following the success of "School 2013," Lee Jong Suk continued to choose roles that challenged him and showcased his versatility. In 2013, he starred in "I Can Hear Your Voice," a fantasy romance drama where he played Park Soo-ha, a high school student with the ability to read people's minds. The drama was a ratings hit, and Lee Jong Suk's performance, particularly his portrayal of a character who uses his special ability to protect the woman he loves, solidified his popularity and earned him numerous awards.

His success continued with "Doctor Stranger" (2014), where he played a genius doctor who had escaped from North Korea, and "Pinocchio" (2014), where he portrayed a young reporter seeking justice for his family. Each role demonstrated his commitment to choosing diverse and challenging projects. In "Pinocchio," he starred alongside Park Shin-hye, and their on-screen chemistry captivated viewers, further cementing his reputation as a leading man in the Korean drama landscape.

In 2016, Lee Jong Suk starred in "W," a fantasy romance drama that blended the real world with a webtoon universe. He played Kang Chul, a wealthy and intelligent webtoon character who comes to life. "W" was a critical and commercial success, praised for its innovative plot and Lee Jong Suk's compelling performance. The drama further expanded his international fanbase and earned him widespread recognition for his ability to navigate complex characters and storylines.

He continued to impress audiences with his role in "While You Were Sleeping" (2017), a fantasy legal drama where he played a prosecutor who could see the future through his dreams. The drama explored themes of justice, fate, and the power of dreams, and Lee Jong Suk's portrayal of a man grappling with these complex issues was widely praised.

In addition to his drama roles, Lee Jong Suk has also starred in several films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He appeared in "Sympathy" (2005), a short film that marked his acting debut, and later starred in films like "Hot Young Bloods" (2014) and "V.I.P." (2017). These film roles allowed him to explore different genres and characters, further expanding his acting range.

Lee Jong Suk's dedication to his craft extends beyond acting. He is also known for his involvement in the fashion industry, maintaining a strong presence as a model. His unique style and impeccable fashion sense have made him a sought-after figure in the world of fashion. He has graced the covers of numerous magazines and has been featured in campaigns for various brands, further solidifying his status as a style icon.

In December 2022, Lee Jong Suk's relationship with singer and actress IU became public, further fueling public interest in his personal life. The revelation came after he won the Daesang (Grand Prize) at the 2022 MBC Drama Awards for his performance in "Big Mouth," where he acknowledged IU in his acceptance speech, hinting at their close relationship. The announcement was met with widespread support from fans and the entertainment industry, highlighting the respect and admiration both stars command.

His role in "Big Mouth" (2022) showcased his ability to take on more mature and complex roles. He played Park Chang-ho, a third-rate lawyer who gets embroiled in a murder case and is forced to transform himself to survive. His performance was praised for its intensity and emotional depth, earning him the Daesang and further solidifying his status as one of South Korea's top actors.

Lee Jong Suk's success isn't just due to his talent; it also stems from his dedication and work ethic. He is known for his commitment to his roles, immersing himself in his characters and working diligently to deliver compelling performances. He has also spoken openly about the challenges he has faced in his career, including the pressure to maintain his image and the difficulties of balancing his personal and professional life.

He also shared insights into his personal life, including the challenges his family faced after his father's accident when he was a young child. The accident had a lasting impact on his family and shaped his perspective on life. He also discussed his early experiences as a model and the pressures he faced as a young person in the entertainment industry.

Beyond his professional achievements, Lee Jong Suk is known for his philanthropy and his commitment to giving back to the community. He has supported various charitable organizations and has used his platform to raise awareness about important social issues. His dedication to making a positive impact on the world further enhances his image as a role model and a respected figure in Korean society.

Lee Jong Suk's influence extends beyond his acting and modeling work. He has become a cultural icon, inspiring fans around the world with his talent, dedication, and humility. His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has made him a beloved figure, and his continued success is a testament to his enduring appeal.

From his early days as a teenage model to his current status as a leading actor, Lee Jong Suk's journey is a remarkable story of talent, hard work, and perseverance. He has consistently challenged himself, taking on diverse roles and pushing the boundaries of his craft. As he continues to evolve as an actor and a person, Lee Jong Suk's future in the entertainment industry looks brighter than ever. His impact on Korean drama and popular culture is undeniable, and his legacy as a talented and inspiring figure will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Lee Jong Suk's filmography includes not only commercially successful dramas but also critically acclaimed works that have earned him numerous awards and nominations. His ability to choose projects that resonate with audiences and showcase his acting range has been a key factor in his success. Whether he's playing a high school student, a doctor, a reporter, or a webtoon character, Lee Jong Suk consistently delivers compelling and memorable performances.

His collaborations with other talented actors and writers have also contributed to his success. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the Korean entertainment industry, forming strong on-screen partnerships and delivering performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. These collaborations have not only enhanced his own career but have also contributed to the overall success of the dramas and films in which he has starred.

Lee Jong Suk's popularity has also translated into significant commercial success. He has become a sought-after brand ambassador for various products and companies, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the Korean entertainment industry. His image and reputation have made him an attractive choice for advertisers, and his endorsements have helped to boost the popularity of the brands he represents.

Despite his success, Lee Jong Suk remains grounded and committed to his craft. He is known for his humility and his dedication to his fans, regularly interacting with them on social media and expressing his gratitude for their support. His genuine appreciation for his fans has helped to build a loyal following that continues to support him throughout his career.

His future projects are highly anticipated by fans around the world. He continues to seek out challenging and diverse roles, and his upcoming projects promise to showcase his versatility and talent even further. As he continues to evolve as an actor, Lee Jong Suk is poised to make an even greater impact on the Korean entertainment industry and on the global stage.

The roles he has chosen, and the way he has embodied them, have spoken volumes about his dedication to his craft. From the complexities of a mind-reading student to the intensity of a lawyer caught in a dangerous game, Lee Jong Suk has shown he's not afraid to dive deep into the heart of his characters. This commitment has earned him not only critical acclaim but also the adoration of fans who appreciate the depth and nuance he brings to each role.

Behind the scenes, Lee Jong Suk is known for his strong work ethic and his respect for his colleagues. He has often spoken about the importance of teamwork and collaboration in creating successful projects. His positive attitude and his willingness to learn from others have made him a valued member of any production team.

Lee Jong Suk's influence extends beyond the screen. He has become a role model for aspiring actors and a source of inspiration for many. His story of hard work, dedication, and perseverance has resonated with people around the world, demonstrating that anything is possible with passion and determination.

In conclusion, Lee Jong Suk is more than just an actor and model; he is a cultural icon. His talent, his dedication, and his genuine connection with his fans have made him one of the most beloved figures in the Korean entertainment industry. As he continues to evolve and take on new challenges, Lee Jong Suk's star will undoubtedly continue to rise, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.

His journey from a young model to a celebrated actor is an inspiring tale of dedication and artistic growth. He embraced each character with an unparalleled passion, breathing life into stories that resonated with audiences across the globe. The depth he brought to his roles, the emotions he stirred within viewers, and the undeniable charisma he exuded on-screen have cemented his place among the pantheon of Korean entertainment's brightest stars.