Lee Jung-jae is a South Korean actor and model whose exceptional talent has earned him global recognition. Born on December 15, 1972, in Seoul, South Korea, Lee has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for decades. With a towering height of 5’11” and charismatic presence, he initially entered the limelight as a model before transitioning into acting. Over the years, Lee has demonstrated his versatility across various genres, cementing his status as one of Korea’s most revered actors.
Full Name: Lee Jung-jae
Date of Birth: December 15, 1972
Nationality: South Korean
Profession: Actor, Model
Years Active: 1993–Present
Known For: Squid Game, Deliver Us from Evil, New World
What Is Lee Jung-jae’s Net Worth and Salary?
As of 2025, Lee Jung-jae’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $12 million. This impressive wealth is attributed to his thriving career in acting, lucrative endorsement deals, and investments in business ventures. For his iconic role as Seong Gi-hun in the globally acclaimed Netflix series Squid Game, Lee reportedly earned around $250,000 per episode. Considering the show’s nine-episode arc, this alone contributed a substantial sum to his fortune.
In addition to his acting earnings, Lee’s modeling contracts and brand endorsements with luxury brands further amplify his income. Moreover, he is known to be a shrewd investor, with stakes in real estate and other business enterprises.
Career
Lee Jung-jae’s career began in the early 1990s when he started as a fashion model. His good looks and magnetic aura quickly caught the attention of filmmakers. He made his acting debut in the 1994 drama Feelings, which paved the way for him to land more significant roles.
His breakthrough role came in 1998 with the romantic film An Affair, where his performance garnered critical acclaim. Over the years, Lee has taken on diverse roles, from romantic leads to action-packed characters in films like Il Mare (2000), New World (2013), and Deliver Us from Evil (2020). Each role showcased his remarkable ability to immerse himself in complex characters, earning him accolades and respect in the industry.
Squid Game
In 2021, Lee Jung-jae’s career reached unprecedented heights with his role in Squid Game, Netflix’s dystopian thriller that became a global sensation. Lee played the protagonist Seong Gi-hun, a down-on-his-luck gambler who enters a deadly survival game to win a life-changing cash prize.
The series’ success was meteoric, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series in its history at the time. Lee’s portrayal of a flawed yet relatable character resonated with audiences worldwide. His performance earned him international acclaim and several awards, solidifying his status as a global star.
Personal Life
Despite his fame, Lee Jung-jae maintains a relatively low profile regarding his personal life. He is known to be private, avoiding unnecessary media attention. Lee has been in a long-term relationship with Im Se-ryung, a prominent businesswoman. The couple’s relationship often garners interest due to their respective statuses in the entertainment and corporate worlds.
Lee is also known for his philanthropic efforts, frequently contributing to charitable causes and using his platform to advocate for social issues.
Awards and Nominations
Lee Jung-jae’s illustrious career is adorned with numerous awards and nominations. Some of his most notable accolades include:
- Blue Dragon Film Awards: Best Actor for The Housemaid (2010)
- Baeksang Arts Awards: Best Actor for New World (2013)
- Primetime Emmy Awards: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Squid Game (2022)
- Screen Actors Guild Awards: Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor for Squid Game (2022)
These achievements underscore his exceptional talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Source of Income Facts
Lee Jung-jae’s wealth stems from multiple income streams:
- Acting: His primary source of income, with blockbuster films and high-profile TV dramas contributing significantly.
- Endorsements: Lee is a brand ambassador for several luxury brands, earning millions from advertising campaigns.
- Real Estate: He owns several properties in prime locations, generating steady rental income.
- Business Ventures: Lee has invested in restaurants and other businesses, showcasing his entrepreneurial acumen.
Conclusion
Lee Jung-jae’s journey from a young model to an internationally recognized actor is nothing short of inspiring. With an estimated net worth of $12 million, he has solidified his position as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. His iconic role in Squid Game marked a pivotal moment in his career, catapulting him to global stardom. Beyond his professional achievements, Lee’s philanthropic efforts and grounded persona make him a true role model.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Lee Jung-jae’s net worth?
As of 2025, Lee Jung-jae’s net worth is estimated to be $12 million.
2. How much did Lee Jung-jae earn from Squid Game?
He reportedly earned around $250,000 per episode, totaling approximately $2.25 million for the series.
3. Is Lee Jung-jae married?
No, but he is in a long-term relationship with businesswoman Im Se-ryung.
4. What awards has Lee Jung-jae won?
He has won numerous awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his role in Squid Game.
5. What are Lee Jung-jae’s main sources of income?
His income comes from acting, endorsements, real estate, and business ventures.
Lee Jung-jae’s legacy in the entertainment industry continues to flourish, making him a celebrated figure both in South Korea and internationally.
