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Early Life

Lee Byung-hun was born in Seoul, South Korea, in 1970. He has a younger sister, Lee Eun-hee, who gained recognition by winning the Miss Korea title in 1996. Lee pursued higher education at Hanyang University, majoring in French Literature, and later attended the Graduate School of Chung-Ang University, where he studied Theater and Cinematography.

Career

Lee's career began in 1991 after successfully auditioning for a KBS talent search, leading to his debut in the television drama "Asphalt My Hometown." He gained significant attention with his roles in the action drama "Asphalt Man" and the romantic film "The Harmonium in My Memory." His breakthrough came in 2000 with the critically acclaimed film "Joint Security Area," which became the highest-grossing Korean film at the time and earned him the Best Actor award at the Busan Film Critics Awards. Over the years, Lee starred in various successful films and television series, including "All In," "Iris," and "Squid Game," solidifying his status as a leading actor in South Korea and across Asia.

In addition to acting, Lee Byung-hun is also involved in the entertainment industry as a producer and manager, having founded BH Entertainment, which manages several prominent actors. He has also made contributions to the video game industry by providing his likeness for the character Wayne Holden in the game "Lost Planet: Extreme Condition."

Personal Life

Lee Byung-hun married actress Lee Min-jung on August 10, 2013, after a brief relationship in 2006 and a rekindling in 2012. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Lee Joon-hoo, in March 2015, and they are expecting their second child in December 2023. Lee has faced personal challenges, including mental health issues following his father's death, but credits his wife for helping him overcome these difficulties. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, donating to various causes, including disaster relief and children's health initiatives.