Lee Dong Wook
When it comes to timeless charm, exceptional acting skills, and global fan devotion, Lee Dong Wook stands out as a true icon. Whether you're searching for his latest projects like Lee Dong Wook new drama 2025 or diving into his past classics such as Lee Dong Wook Goblin, this versatile Korean actor keeps his audience captivated. From his acclaimed role as the grim reaper to his recent work in A Shop for Killers, Dong Wook continues to prove why he's one of Korea’s most handsome and beloved actors.
Is Lee Dong Wook Married? Relationships, Age, and Personal Life
Many fans are curious about Lee Dong Wook wife, his married status, and even rumors about his wife and son. While he's been linked with celebrities like Bae Suzy and Yoo In Na, the actor remains tight-lipped. Born in 1981, his age, zodiac sign, and height in feet are frequently searched, along with plastic surgery speculations and his evolving haircut styles. He’s known for his MBTI personality, dazzling smile, and intense eyes that fans admire in every drama and movie.
Filmography, Career Highlights, and Global Fame
From the emotional depth in Strangers From Hell to the fantasy world of Tale of the Nine Tailed, Lee Dong Wook has an impressive drama list and movie list. His roles in romantic dramas, vampire thrillers, and variety shows like Running Man have showcased his wide range. Internationally, fans follow his updates on Instagram, adore his younger photos, buy merchandise, and join his official fan club. From Harbin to Netflix projects, his influence is unstoppable.
He's also appreciated for his unexpected talents like singing, speaking English, and appearances on talk shows. Whether it's a cameo in Queen of Tears, his rumored appearance in Inside Out 2, or discussions around Lee Dong Wook getting married, his every move generates buzz.
Explore everything about Lee Dong Wook—from height, religion, and family, to his upcoming series and iconic collaborations with Gong Yoo. He’s more than just an actor—he’s a K-drama legend, fashion icon, and a beloved figure in the hearts of millions.
Info
Stage Name: Lee Dong Wook
Native Name: 이동욱 (Lee Dong Wook)
Real Name: 이동욱 (Lee Dong Wook)
Nationality: South Korean (ethnicity)
Gender: Male
Born: November 6, 1981
Birth Place: Seoul, South Korea
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Chinese Zodiac Sign: Rooster (1981, Year of the Rooster)
Height: 184 cm (6 feet)
Weight: 72 kg
Blood Type: B
Spouse: Not Married
Children: None
Military Service: Served in the Republic of Korea Army, discharged in 2011.
IQ: Not publicly known.
Favorite Sport: Baseball
Languages Spoken:
Korean (Native): Lee Dong Wook’s primary language, spoken fluently.- English: Proficient enough for interviews and fan interactions.
Favorites and Habits
Favorite Foods: Spicy food, particularly ramen.
Favorite Movie/Drama Genres: Action, thriller, fantasy.- Hobbies: Exercising, playing baseball, watching movies, listening to music.
Favorite Songs: Enjoys various genres, often mentioning calming and emotional tracks.
Daily Routine
Morning Routine: Known to start his day with exercise.
Fitness: Regularly works out to maintain his physique, including gym sessions and outdoor activities.
Preparation Process: Thoroughly reviews scripts and discusses characters with directors and co-stars.
Interesting Memories
Childhood Story: He once mentioned a childhood where he wasn’t particularly outgoing, but found solace in acting.
First Acting Role: Debuted in 1999, gaining recognition through various roles in the early 2000s.
Philanthropy and Social Responsibility
Charity Work: Has participated in various charity events and donations, often quietly supporting causes related to children and vulnerable groups.
Environmental Awareness: Though not explicitly stated as an environmental activist, he promotes conscious living through his public image.
Awards and Achievements
Notable Awards: Best Actor for “My Girl” (2005 SBS Drama Awards), Excellent Actor for “Scent of a Woman” (2011 SBS Drama Awards), Male Top Excellence Award for “Goblin” (2017 tvN 10 Awards), Best Actor for “Strangers from Hell” (2019 OCN Awards).- Global Recognition: Gained significant international popularity through dramas like “My Girl” and “Goblin.”
Fan-Related Moments
Fan Service: Known for his warm and engaging interactions with fans during fan meetings and events.
Communication with Fans: Actively uses social media and participates in live broadcasts to connect with his fanbase.
Future Plans
- Career Goals: Continues to challenge himself with diverse roles in dramas and films, aiming for international projects.
- Message to Fans: Frequently expresses gratitude to fans for their unwavering support, encouraging them to stay healthy and happy.
Religion & Personality
- Religion: Lee Dong Wook’s religious beliefs have not been publicly disclosed.
MBTI Personality Type: INFP (Mediator) – Reportedly confirmed by himself.
Education
- Elementary School: Not publicly disclosed.
Middle School: Not publicly disclosed.
High School: Youngdong High School
University: Joongbu University (Broadcasting and Media Arts – dropped out)
Family
- Parents: Not publicly disclosed in detail. He has mentioned his family is supportive.
Sibling:- One younger sister. Her name and details are not publicly known.
Agency
Current Agency: King Kong by Starship
Career Timeline
1999: Made acting debut in the MBC single-episode drama “Street.”- 2005: Gained widespread recognition with the hit romantic comedy “My Girl.”
2016-2017: Achieved global fame for his role as the Grim Reaper in the fantasy drama “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (Goblin).”- 2019-2020: Hosted his own talk show, “Because I Want to Talk.”
Notable Facts
- Known for roles in: My Girl, Scent of a Woman, Goblin, Strangers from Hell, and Tale of the Nine Tailed.
- Ideal Type: Has stated he prefers someone with a kind heart and a good sense of humor.
- Versatility: Praised for his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to intense villains.
Relationships
Lee Dong-wook is a renowned South Korean actor known for his roles in dramas like “Goblin” and “Tale of the Nine Tailed.” While he maintains privacy about his personal life, there have been several dating rumors throughout his career. Here’s a brief overview:
Confirmed Relationship with Suzy (Bae Suzy):
Lee Dong-wook publicly dated miss A’s Suzy from March 2018 to July 2018. Their 4-month relationship was confirmed by their agencies but ended due to busy schedules.
Rumors with Yoo In-na:
Lee Dong-wook and Yoo In-na sparked dating rumors due to their incredible chemistry in “Goblin” (2016-2017). However, both parties denied these rumors, stating they were just close friends.
Rumors with Im Soo-jung:
In 2020, dating rumors emerged after Lee Dong-wook and Im Soo-jung were spotted together. Their agencies quickly denied the relationship, explaining they were just part of the same friend group.
Rumors with Park Bo-young:
After their collaboration in “Strongest Deliveryman” (2017), fans speculated about a possible romance, but neither party confirmed these rumors.
Wife: Lee Dong-wook is not married as of 2024. The 42-year-old actor has mentioned in interviews that he’s currently focused on his acting career rather than marriage. Known for being private about his personal life, Lee continues to captivate audiences with his performances while keeping his romantic life out of the spotlight.
Biography
Lee Dong Wook, born on November 6, 1981, in Seoul, South Korea, rose to prominence as one of South Korea’s most sought-after actors. His journey in the entertainment industry began with modeling, eventually transitioning to acting. Dong Wook gained widespread recognition for his roles in various television dramas, including “My Girl” (2005) and “Scent of a Woman” (2011), which showcased his versatility and acting prowess.
In 2016, Dong Wook’s career reached new heights with his portrayal of the grim reaper in the immensely popular fantasy drama “Goblin.” His captivating performance earned him critical acclaim and solidified his status as a leading actor in the Korean entertainment industry. Following the success of “Goblin,” he continued to impress audiences with his roles in dramas such as “Touch Your Heart” (2019) and “Tale of the Nine-Tailed” (2020).
Beyond his television work, Dong Wook has also made notable appearances in films and variety shows, showcasing his range as an entertainer. His charm and charisma have earned him a dedicated fan base both in South Korea and internationally. Alongside his acting career, Dong Wook has been actively involved in various charitable activities, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to society.
With his talent, dedication, and endearing personality, Lee Dong Wook continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and cementing his legacy as a beloved actor and public figure.
Military
Lee Dong-wook fulfilled his mandatory military service as an active-duty soldier in the South Korean army. Here are the key details:
Service Period:
– Enlistment Date: August 24, 2009
– Discharge Date: June 20, 2011
– Total Service: 1 year and 10 months (standard duration at the time)
Service Details:
– Served as an active-duty infantry soldier (1st Division)
– Completed basic training at Nonsan Training Center
– Stationed near the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) during service
– Served as an entertainment corps soldier after initial training period
Notable Facts:
– Received an exemplary soldier award during service
– Continued some entertainment activities with approval:
• Hosted military radio program “FM Date with Lee Dong-wook”
• Performed in military musical “Cinderella”
– Gained 10kg (22lbs) of muscle during service
– Was discharged 6 days early due to accumulated leave time
Post-Service Impact:
– Experienced brief career slump after discharge (common for actors at the time)
– Made successful comeback with 2012 drama “Wild Romance”
– Has mentioned military service helped mature his acting skills
– Rarely discusses service details publicly, maintaining military privacy
Exemption Note:
– Qualified for active duty despite childhood asthma (condition improved)
– Considered exemplary case of celebrity completing standard military service
– His honorable discharge enhances public image in Korea
Hobbies
- Cooking: Lee Dong Wook enjoys experimenting with different cuisines and dishes in his spare time.
- Traveling: He loves exploring new destinations, immersing himself in diverse cultures and experiences.
- Reading: Dong Wook is an avid reader, particularly enjoying mystery and thriller genres.
- Playing Video Games: During downtime, he often relaxes by playing video games, finding it a fun way to unwind.
- Photography: He has a keen interest in photography, often capturing moments during his travels and daily life.
Interests
- Fashion: Dong Wook pays attention to his personal style and is interested in fashion trends.
- Nature: He finds solace in nature and enjoys activities like hiking and camping.
- Music: Dong Wook has an eclectic taste in music, appreciating various genres from pop to indie.
- Fitness: He maintains a healthy lifestyle and enjoys activities like yoga and weight training.
- Film and TV: As an actor, Dong Wook is naturally interested in film and television, both as a viewer and a professional.
Facts
- Early Career: Before pursuing acting, Lee Dong Wook initially trained as a model and debuted in the entertainment industry through modeling.
- Language Skills: He is fluent in both Korean and Japanese, showcasing his linguistic abilities.
- Academic Achievements: Dong Wook studied at Joongbu University, where he majored in broadcasting and media arts.
- Military Service: Like all South Korean men, Dong Wook completed his mandatory military service, serving as a conscripted policeman.
- Charitable Work: He is actively involved in various charitable activities, supporting causes related to children’s welfare and education.
Secrets
- Dong Wook is known for his shy and reserved nature off-screen, contrasting with his confident on-screen persona.
- Despite his celebrity status, he values privacy and keeps his personal life relatively low-key.
- He has a hidden talent for mimicry and can impersonate various accents and voices.
- Dong Wook has a soft spot for animals and has adopted several rescue pets.
- He enjoys spending quiet evenings at home rather than attending extravagant events.
Funny Things
- Dong Wook has a penchant for pulling harmless pranks on his co-stars and friends on set.
- He often shares funny anecdotes and jokes during interviews, showcasing his sense of humor.
- Dong Wook’s blooper reels from his various acting projects are filled with hilarious moments.
- He is known for his contagious laughter, which can lighten up any atmosphere.
- Despite his serious roles on screen, he is known among his colleagues for his playful and jovial demeanor.
Fears
- Dong Wook has admitted to being afraid of heights, particularly when it comes to extreme activities like bungee jumping or skydiving.
- He harbors a fear of failure, which drives him to continuously strive for excellence in his career.
- Like many, he has a fear of insects, particularly spiders, and cockroaches.
- Dong Wook also has a fear of losing loved ones, which he cherishes dearly.
- He has expressed a mild fear of the supernatural, owing to his involvement in various fantasy-themed dramas.
Commercials
Lee Dong-wook has been a sought-after brand ambassador and commercial model throughout his career, known for his sophisticated image and widespread appeal. Here are some notable commercial collaborations:
1. Lotte Duty Free (2016-2020):
– Served as main model alongside Lee Min-ho and Song Hye-kyo
– Featured in global promotional campaigns across Asia
– Appeared in TV commercials, print ads, and airport displays
2. Domino’s Pizza Korea (2019-2021):
– Became face of “Premium Gold Series” pizza line
– Starred in humorous TV commercials showcasing his comedic side
– Campaign resulted in significant sales increase
3. Zishen (Chinese Cosmetic Brand):
– Signed as exclusive model in 2017
– Promoted anti-aging skincare products
– Targeted Chinese market with his pan-Asian popularity
4. Lotte Chilsung Beverage (2021-present):
– Current model for “Let’s Be Mild” barley tea
– Features in seasonal campaigns emphasizing his natural charm
– Commercials often highlight his “office worker” persona
5. KB Kookmin Bank (2022-present):
– Chosen as main model for banking services
– Represents “smart banking” concept
– Appears in digital and traditional media campaigns
Other Notable Collaborations:
– Giordano: Apparel model (2017)
– Black Yak: Outdoor wear (2018)
– Laneige: Skincare (various campaigns)
– Market Kurly: Grocery delivery service (2023)
Lee Dong-wook’s commercial value stems from his trustworthy image and ability to connect with diverse demographics. Brands particularly value his:
– Strong female fanbase (20s-40s age group)
– Sophisticated yet approachable persona
– International appeal across Asia
– Consistent popularity since “Goblin” fame
His endorsement fees are estimated to be approximately ₩500-700 million (about $400,000-600,000) per campaign as of 2024, making him one of Korea’s top commercial stars.
Awards & Nominations
Lee Dong-wook has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career. Here’s a comprehensive list of his accolades:
APAN Star Awards:
– 2014: Nominated for Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Serial Drama (Hotel King)
– 2018: Nominated for K-Star Award and Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries (Life)
Asia Model Awards (2014):
– Won Fashionista Award
Brand of the Year Awards (2023):
– Won Male Actor of the Year (Drama)
Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards in China (2011):
– Won Most Attractive Actor in Asia
DramaFever Awards (2017):
– Won Best Supporting Actor (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)
Fashionista Awards (2017):
– Nominated for Global Icon
I-Magazine Fashion Face Award (2021):
– Won Asian Male category
iQIYI Awards (2021):
– Won The Most Popular Actor (Tale of the Nine Tailed)
KBS Drama Awards:
– 2009: Nominated for Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries (Partner)
– 2012: Nominated for Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries (Wild Romance)
– 2013: Nominated for Excellence Award, Actor in a Mid-length Drama (The Fugitive of Joseon)
Korea Drama Awards (2017):
– Nominated for Top Excellence Award, Actor (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)
Korea Fashion Photographers Association (2018):
– Won Photogenic Award of the year
Korea First Brand Awards (2021):
– Won Best Actor
Korea Movie Star Awards (2007):
– Nominated for Best New Actor (The Perfect Couple)
Korean Most Popular Entertainment Awards:
– 2001: Won New Generation Actor
– 2002: Won Best New Actor (TV) (Loving You)
MBC Drama Awards (2014):
– Nominated for Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Special Project Drama (Hotel King)
OCN Awards (2019):
– Won “Dangerously Attractive Character” Award (Hell Is Other People)
PC LADY & Tudou Fashion Awards (2013):
– Won Asia Fashion Star Award
SBS Drama Awards:
– 2003: Won New Star Award and Nominated for Best Supporting Actor (Land of Wine)
– 2011: Won Top 10 Stars and Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Weekend Drama (Scent of a Woman)
SBS Entertainment Awards (2012):
– Won Best Couple Award (with Shin Dong-yup) and Best Newcomer, MC category (Strong Heart)
Soompi Awards (2018):
– Won Best Supporting Actor (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God)
V-NESS Model Awards (1999):
– Won Grand Prize
Throughout his career spanning over two decades, Lee Dong-wook has been recognized for his acting skills, fashion sense, and popularity across various award-giving bodies in South Korea and internationally.
Sports
While primarily known as an actor, Lee Dong-wook has demonstrated impressive athletic abilities and sports-related activities throughout his career:
1. Baseball Skills:
– Showcased excellent baseball pitching form in Episode 5 of “Strong Heart” (2012)
– Demonstrated 120km/h fastball pitch during variety show appearances
– Has participated in celebrity baseball charity matches
2. Soccer Enthusiasm:
– Active participant in celebrity soccer matches
– Member of the celebrity soccer team “FC MEN” with other actors
– Often plays striker position in friendly matches
3. Military Training:
– Gained 10kg (22lbs) of muscle during military service (2009-2011)
– Received special commendation for physical fitness
– Trained in hand-to-hand combat as frontline infantry near DMZ
4. Variety Show Challenges:
– Completed intense physical missions on “Running Man” (Episodes 118, 364)
– Showed exceptional swimming skills on aquatic challenges
– Demonstrated good reflexes in action-based games
5. Action Scene Training:
– Performed 80% of his own stunts in “Tale of the Nine Tailed”
– Trained in martial arts for fight scenes in “Bad and Crazy”
– Learned special movement techniques for “Goblin” action sequences
6. Daily Fitness Routine:
– Maintains rigorous workout schedule (3-4 times weekly)
– Focuses on functional training and core strength
– Prefers outdoor activities like hiking and cycling
7. Sports Endorsements:
– Modeled for Black Yak outdoor sports brand (2018)
– Featured in sportswear campaigns
– Promoted athletic fashion in various photoshoots
Lee Dong-wook’s athleticism contributes to his ability to perform demanding action roles and maintain his iconic physique at age 42. His sports participation demonstrates versatility beyond acting and appeals to fans who admire his dedication to physical fitness.
Musical Instrument
Lee Dong-wook, though primarily known as an actor and entertainer, has showcased musical talent and instrument skills throughout his career. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Piano Skills
• Demonstrated Ability:
– Played simple melodies on piano during fan meetings
– Learned basic piano for his role in Scent of a Woman (2011)
– Can play by ear but doesn’t read sheet music fluently
• Notable Appearances:
– 2012: Played a short piece on Strong Heart (variety show)
– 2018: Attempted piano during Life drama behind-the-scenes footage
Guitar Experience
• Acoustic Guitar:
– Learned guitar basics during military service (2009-2011)
– Occasionally plays for personal relaxation
– Shared guitar-playing clips on personal broadcasts
• On-Screen Appearances:
– 2017: Held guitar (though didn’t play) in Goblin behind-the-scenes
– 2021: Pretend-played guitar in Tale of the Nine Tailed OST making film
Other Instruments
• Harmonica:
– Learned for a scene in Wild Romance (2012) but scene was cut
– Kept the skill as a personal hobby
• Drums:
– Basic rhythm training for Bad and Crazy (2021) action sequences
– Enjoys drum-based workouts for coordination
Musical Background
• Vocal Training:
– Took singing lessons pre-debut
– Performed musical numbers in military production Cinderella (2010)
• OST Contributions:
– 2011: Sang My Love for Scent of a Woman OST
– 2021: Whisper-sang in Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938 special track
• Music Variety Shows:
– 2012: Attempted singing on Strong Heart
– 2020: Played rhythm games on Amazing Saturday
While not a professional musician, Lee Dong-wook enjoys music as a personal passion and has developed basic instrument skills for acting roles and personal enjoyment. His musical attempts are often praised by fans for their sincerity despite technical limitations.
Membership / Band
Lee Dong-wook is not an official member of any K-pop group like BTS or EXO. While primarily known as an actor, he has participated in special musical projects including:
- OST Contributions: Recorded songs for dramas like Scent of a Woman (2011) and Tale of the Nine Tailed (2020)
- Variety Show Performances: Showcased singing on programs like Strong Heart and Amazing Saturday
- Military Musical: Performed in Cinderella (2010) during mandatory service
- Celebrity Collaborations: Special stages with idols like Red Velvet’s Joy and Apink’s Eunji
The actor maintains friendships with K-pop stars but focuses on his acting career in dramas like Goblin and Tale of the Nine Tailed.
Lee Dong-wook FAQ
Is Lee Dong Wook married?
No, Lee Dong Wook is not married and has not confirmed any public relationship as of 2025.
Who is Lee Dong Wook's girlfriend?
He was previously linked to Bae Suzy in 2018, but they broke up shortly after. Currently, there is no confirmed girlfriend.
What is Lee Dong Wook's age?
He was born on November 6, 1981, which makes him 43 years old in 2025.
What is Lee Dong Wook's MBTI type?
His MBTI type is reported to be INFJ, which is known for being deep, thoughtful, and empathetic.
Has Lee Dong Wook had plastic surgery?
There is no official confirmation. Most fans believe his visuals are natural, including his signature eyes and sharp jawline.
How tall is Lee Dong Wook in feet?
He is approximately 6 feet tall (around 184 cm).
Is Lee Dong Wook returning in 2025?
Yes! He is expected to appear in new dramas and Netflix projects in 2025, including potential sequels.
What are Lee Dong Wook's most famous dramas?
Some of his best-known works include Goblin, Tale of the Nine Tailed, Strangers From Hell, Touch Your Heart, and Bad and Crazy.
Does Lee Dong Wook have social media?
Yes, his official Instagram is @leedongwook_official.
What’s Lee Dong Wook's real name?
His real name is Lee Dong Wook. He uses his birth name professionally.
What is his most recent drama or movie?
As of early 2025, Lee Dong Wook starred in A Shop for Killers and is rumored to appear in upcoming K-dramas for Netflix and tvN.
Music Career
Lee Dong-wook has showcased his musical talents through various projects despite being primarily known as an actor:
OST Contributions
The actor lent his vocals to several drama soundtracks, including “My Love” for Scent of a Woman (2011) and a special whisper track for Tale of the Nine Tailed (2020). His most recent musical contribution was narration for the 2023 drama Death’s Game OST album.
Live Performances
During his military service (2009-2011), Lee starred as Prince Charming in over 20 performances of the military musical Cinderella. He’s also made memorable appearances on variety shows like Strong Heart where he played piano and Knowing Bros where he performed duets.
Special Collaborations
Lee has shared the stage with several K-pop artists including Red Velvet’s Joy (2016 MBC Gayo Daejejeon), Apink’s Eunji (2019 year-end festival), and ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo (2022 Music Bank cameo). These performances highlight his versatility beyond acting.
Instrumental Skills
While not professionally trained, Lee taught himself basic piano for drama roles, learned acoustic guitar during military service, and mastered harmonica for his 2012 drama Wild Romance. He often incorporates these skills into fan meetings and special appearances.
Lee Dong-wook Albums & Singles (Music / OST)
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