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Lee Joon-GiSouth Korean actor
Date of Birth: 17.04.1982
Country:  South Korea |
Content:
- Childhood and Early Life
- Transition to Acting
- Film Debut and Breakthrough
- Controversy and Army Service
- Post-Military Career
- Music
- Personal Life
- Hobbies and Lifestyle
- Current Projects and Future Outlook
Childhood and Early Life
Lee Joon Gi, a renowned South Korean actor, was born on April 17, 1982, in Busan, a bustling port city known for its pristine beaches. Growing up as the eldest child in Changwon, a neighboring city known for its military industry, Joon Gi attended school and pursued soccer and baseball. According to his peers, he stood out for his leadership qualities, striving to excel and inspire others. Despite his striking appearance, Joon Gi grappled with shyness in his early years, hindering his interactions with girls.
Transition to Acting
Joon Gi's aspiration to become a programmer shifted after witnessing an amateur performance of "Hamlet" in his youth. Inspired by theater, he planned to pursue the arts, leading to a conflict with his parents and prompting him to run away from home at the age of 20 with only $250. Embarking on a solitary journey to Seoul, he faced numerous rejections in auditions and lived in an attic, but determination drove him to enroll in university.
To support himself, Joon Gi juggled education with odd jobs, including serving as a waiter at a billiard club and bartending at night. His talent was recognized by a representative of a young actors' support agency, who offered him a contract. In 2001, he debuted as a model and appeared in advertisements, showcasing his photogenic image in magazines.
Film Debut and Breakthrough
Joon Gi made his cinematic debut in the 2003 drama "Non-Stop 3," playing a minor role. His notable film appearance came in Japanese director Hidetaka Takahata's "Venus Hotel," where he portrayed the character Boy. The film, shot in Vladivostok, earned critical acclaim in Russia and received recognition at the Moscow International Film Festival.
His breakthrough role came in Lee Joon Ik's historical epic "The King and the Clown," an adaptation of a play about a court jester during the Joseon dynasty. The film was South Korea's submission for the Academy Awards and ranked as one of the country's most successful box office hits. Joon Gi's portrayal of the jester Gong Gil garnered widespread attention. Despite having minimal experience, he impressed the director with his ability to perform a handstand and fit the role perfectly.
Controversy and Army Service
The commercial success of "The King and the Clown" propelled Joon Gi's popularity, leading to numerous interviews and television appearances. However, he faced criticism for often being typecast as a pretty jester, while he yearned to demonstrate his dramatic abilities. Additionally, he felt his income was undervalued, as his contract with his agency was signed prior to the film's release.
In 2007, Joon Gi starred in Kim Jin Min's action-thriller "Time Between Dog and Wolf," which garnered popularity in China and Japan. He received an award at the MBC Drama Awards for his performance. However, his rising stardom sparked a conflict with his agency, who accused him of financial misconduct and threatened legal action. Fearing damage to his reputation, Joon Gi opted not to terminate his association with the company.
From 2010 to 2012, Joon Gi's acting career was put on hold as he fulfilled his mandatory military service in South Korea, where conscription is required for all males between 18 and 35 years of age. This hiatus ultimately proved beneficial, as he discovered his musical talent and performed songs for a musical commemorating the anniversary of the Korean War.
Post-Military Career
Upon completing his military service, Joon Gi immediately immersed himself in acting, landing the lead role in the popular drama series "Arang and the Magistrate," which aired in several East Asian countries. Following its premiere, he embarked on a fan meeting tour in Japan.
In 2016, he made his Hollywood debut in Paul W. S. Anderson's "Resident Evil: The Final Chapter," portraying Commander Chu. His participation in the franchise came as a thrilling moment for Joon Gi, who had been an avid fan of the series.
Joon Gi continued to showcase his versatility in recent years, appearing in high-profile dramas such as "Hotel del Luna," "Arthdal Chronicles," "Flower of Evil," and "Again My Life." His diverse roles have consistently demonstrated his exceptional acting prowess, earning critical praise for his realism and ability to transform.
Music
Music has always been a passion for Joon Gi, who loved singing and dancing from a young age. Though he originally considered a career as a singer, he ultimately chose acting. However, in May 2006, at a fan meeting where he performed several tracks, he decided to record an album at the request of his supporters.
His debut album, "My Jun, My Style," was released in 2006, featuring three songs. Joon Gi has continued to release music regularly, specializing in genres such as dance-pop and K-pop. Despite his vocal abilities, he refrains from being labeled as a singer, citing respect for professional musicians who have received formal musical education.
Personal Life
In South Korean culture, family is of the utmost importance, and personal details are kept private. Despite his public persona as a heartthrob, Joon Gi has successfully concealed his relationships. Rumors of a potential romance with actress and singer Jeon Hye Bin emerged in 2015, which the couple denied. In 2017, Joon Gi surprised fans with an announcement of his engagement on social media, posting photos with his future wife. The ceremony was a private affair attended only by close family and friends.
However, the union dissolved soon after, as Joon Gi confirmed their separation online. He has remained unmarried, while his former fiancée wed another man in 2019 and gave birth to their child three years later. In 2019, Joon Gi was linked to singer IU, with whom he starred in "Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo" and "Hotel del Luna." IU declined to comment on the speculations, emphasizing their friendship. In 2022, news broke of IU's relationship with Lee Jong Suk, known for his roles in "Doctor Stranger" and "W: Two Worlds."
Hobbies and Lifestyle
Joon Gi describes himself as a homebody, preferring to spend his free time watching movies or re-watching his own dramas on his home entertainment system rather than partying or attending a nightclub. He enjoys the works of Clint Eastwood and arthouse films. The only alcoholic beverage he indulges in is beer, which he uses occasionally to relieve stress.
On set, Joon Gi favors performing his own stunts, minimizing the use of stunt doubles. His father instilled in him a love for martial arts from a young age, enrolling him in martial arts classes to encourage self-defense and discipline. He continues to practice martial arts and avidly reads specialized literature.
Joon Gi maintains a youthful appearance, which many attribute to cosmetic surgery. He denies any surgical enhancements, although rumors persist regarding procedures involving his ears, chin, eyelids, and nose. He emphasizes the importance of a nutritious diet and a consistent sleep schedule.
Current Projects and Future Outlook
In 2023, the second season of "Arthdal Chronicles" is scheduled to premiere, with Joon Gi reprising his dual roles as the twins Eunseom and Saya. His career in show business continues to flourish, as he performs on television shows and releases music videos.
