From Acclaimed Korean Actor to Global Star of Squid Game
Introduction: Who Is Lee Jung-jae?
Lee Jung-jae is one of South Korea’s most acclaimed and versatile actors, widely respected for his dynamic performances across film and television. With a career spanning over three decades, he has been a key figure in Korean entertainment. His role in Netflix’s Squid Game brought him unprecedented international recognition, making him a global ambassador for Korean cinema.
Early Career and Rise to Fame in Korean Cinema
He began his career as a model in the early 1990s before transitioning to acting. His breakout roles in Il Mare (2000) and The Housemaid (2010) showcased his emotional depth, while crime thrillers like New World (2013) solidified his status as one of Korea’s top leading men.
- Notable Korean films: City of the Rising Sun, The Face Reader, Deliver Us from Evil
- Awards: Multiple Best Actor wins at the Blue Dragon Film Awards and Baeksang Arts Awards
Global Breakthrough with Squid Game
In 2021, Lee Jung-jae starred as Seong Gi-hun in Netflix’s Squid Game, playing a desperate yet kind-hearted man caught in a deadly survival competition. The series became a global cultural phenomenon, reaching over 142 million households worldwide. Lee’s performance earned him historic achievements:
- Historic Wins: First Asian actor to win Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series at the Primetime Emmy Awards
- Other Honors: Screen Actors Guild Award and Critics’ Choice Award nominations
Today: Korean Star with Global Reach
Following the success of Squid Game, he is now one of Asia’s most influential actors. He is expanding into Hollywood with roles such as in Disney+’s Star Wars: The Acolyte, further proving his global appeal and paving the way for more Korean actors internationally.
Authentic, Original Photographs of Lee Jung-jae
I made portraits of Lee Jung-jae during an exclusive interview with The New York Times. Please contact me directly for licensing inquiries.