Finasteriden – When Squid Game exploded onto the global stage in 2021, it catapulted Lee Jung Jae into international superstardom. His portrayal of Seong Gi-hun, the debt-ridden yet endearing protagonist, captivated audiences worldwide and earned him prestigious accolades. But for those familiar with South Korean cinema, Lee Jung Jae’s rise was anything but overnight. His career spans decades, filled with transformative roles, critical acclaim, and an ever-evolving persona that shaped him into the powerhouse actor he is today.
So, what was Lee Jung Jae’s career like before Squid Game? Let’s take a deep dive into the journey of this remarkable actor and uncover how years of dedication and hard work laid the foundation for his eventual breakout on the global stage.
The Early Days: From Model to Rising Actor
Lee Jung Jae’s entertainment career began not on the big screen, but in the world of fashion. In the early 1990s, Lee was one of South Korea’s top male models. With his striking features and undeniable charisma, he quickly became a sought-after figure in the modeling industry. However, Lee’s ambitions extended far beyond the runway. He set his sights on acting, a goal that led to his first significant break.
In 1993, Lee made his television debut in the hit drama Dinosaur Teacher, playing a minor role that caught the attention of audiences and critics alike. His natural acting ability, combined with his commanding presence, hinted at the potential for greater things to come.
The Breakout Role: Sandglass (1995)
It didn’t take long for Lee to find his breakout role. In 1995, he starred in Sandglass, a drama series that would go on to become one of South Korea’s most iconic and highest-rated shows. Lee portrayed Baek Jae-hee, a loyal bodyguard caught in the midst of political and social upheaval during South Korea’s tumultuous 1970s.
Sandglass resonated deeply with viewers, and Lee’s performance was praised for its emotional depth and complexity. The role earned him the Best New Actor award at the 31st Baeksang Arts Awards and solidified his status as one of the most promising actors of his generation.
Transition to Film: A Versatile Talent
Following his television success, Lee Jung Jae set his sights on film. In 1998, he starred in City of the Rising Sun alongside fellow actor Jung Woo-sung. The crime drama showcased Lee’s ability to tackle intense, multifaceted roles, earning him further acclaim and establishing him as a formidable force in South Korean cinema.
Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Lee appeared in a string of successful films, including The Uprising (1999) and Interview (2000). His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between genres, from action-packed thrillers to romantic dramas, showcasing his broad acting range.
Art House Recognition: The Housemaid (2010)
One of Lee Jung Jae’s most defining moments came with his role in The Housemaid (2010), a psychological thriller that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Lee played Hoon, a wealthy businessman entangled in a dangerous affair with his family’s housemaid.
The film’s gripping narrative and Lee’s intense performance captivated international audiences and critics, further cementing his reputation as a serious actor. His ability to convey complex emotions without overacting became a signature trait that distinguished him from his peers.
A Return to Blockbusters: The Thieves and Assassination
Lee Jung Jae’s career in the 2010s saw him return to blockbuster hits. In 2012, he starred in The Thieves, South Korea’s answer to Ocean’s Eleven. Playing a suave and calculating thief, Lee charmed audiences and contributed to the film’s massive box office success.
Three years later, Lee joined the cast of Assassination (2015), a historical action film set during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea. His portrayal of a resistance fighter further demonstrated his ability to adapt to physically demanding roles while delivering compelling performances.
Darker Roles: Deliver Us from Evil (2020)
As Lee Jung Jae entered the 2020s, his roles took on a darker and grittier tone. In Deliver Us from Evil (2020), Lee played the antagonist Ray, a ruthless mercenary seeking revenge. The role was a stark departure from his previous work, highlighting his fearlessness in embracing morally complex characters.
His chilling performance drew praise for its raw intensity, adding yet another layer to his already diverse career.
The Global Phenomenon: Squid Game (2021)
Then came Squid Game. While Lee Jung Jae was already a household name in South Korea, the Netflix series propelled him to global stardom. Seong Gi-hun, the down-on-his-luck gambler desperate for redemption, resonated with viewers across continents. Lee’s nuanced portrayal brought humanity and vulnerability to the character, transforming a seemingly ordinary man into an unforgettable figure.
The overwhelming success of Squid Game led to Lee becoming the first Asian actor to win the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, a milestone that underscored his impact on the international stage.
Why Lee Jung Jae’s Pre-Squid Game Career Matters
Lee Jung Jae’s journey before Squid Game is a testament to the value of perseverance and artistic evolution. His willingness to take on diverse roles, coupled with his dedication to his craft, allowed him to carve out a career that spans decades.
For aspiring actors, Lee’s story serves as a reminder that success is often the result of years of hard work and resilience. For audiences, it’s an opportunity to revisit his earlier work and appreciate the depth of talent that existed long before the world discovered Squid Game.
Final Thoughts: A Star Still Rising
Even after the immense success of Squid Game, Lee Jung Jae shows no signs of slowing down. With upcoming projects in both South Korea and Hollywood, his star continues to rise.
For fans old and new, one thing is certain—Lee Jung Jae’s journey is far from over. And if his pre-Squid Game career is any indication, the best may be yet to come.
