Lee Jun-ho

Early life and education

Lee was inspired to pursue filmmaking after watching the film Shiri in elementary school. However, by fourth grade his interests had shifted toward acting. Although he initially enjoyed dancing and singing, he aspired to become an actor and subsequently enrolled in the drama program at Sewon High School. During this time, Lee was active in the school's theater club and participated in various provincial and poetry competitions.

In 2006, Lee first gained public attention when he won Superstar Survival. The show started with twelve teenage competitors and, as the weeks went on, they were eliminated one by one until three were left. The process followed a similar style to that of the reality show Survivor. Lee signed a contract with JYP Entertainment after winning the contest, placing first out of 6,500 competitors.

Lee attended Howon University in Gunsan, South Korea, where he completed his undergraduate studies. He later attained a master's degree in cinematography from Sejong University.

Career

2008–2009: Debut with 2PM

In 2008, he participated in Mnet's Hot Blooded Men, a program that chronicles the rigorous training of thirteen aspiring trainees, all vying for a coveted spot in the boy band One Day. This initiative ultimately led to the formation of two distinct boy bands, namely 2AM and 2PM.

Half a year following the televised airing of Hot Blooded Men, the group 2PM made their debut with the release of their inaugural single "10 Out of 10" from their first single album titled Hottest Time of the Day. However, it was their second single album, 2:00PM Time For Change, that propelled them to mainstream success in Korean music, solidifying their meteoric rise. As of 2021, the group has released seven studio albums in Korea and five studio albums in Japan.

Despite the group's achievements, Lee has spoken about his struggles with lack of opportunities and recognition early in his career. He shared that he was often alone in the dormitory while the other members were busy with their scheduled activities. Lee also believed that, despite his interest in acting, JYP Entertainment had no intention of letting him pursue it.

Solo activities

In 2013, Lee made his initial foray as a solo artist in Japan with the release of his debut solo EP, Kimi no Koe, for which he undertook the roles of producer, composer, and lyricist across all the tracks. This album topped Tower Records' daily charts, while also peaking at number three on Oricon's daily and weekly charts. Commencing on July 9, Lee embarked upon his first solo tour titled Kimi no Koe, encompassing 12 shows across 5 cities and culminating on August 29 in Tokyo.

On July 9, 2014, Lee released his second self-composed Japanese EP, Feel. Feel topped Oricon's daily album chart on the very day of its launch and reached number two on the weekly charts. On July 3, Lee embarked upon his second solo Japanese tour titled Feel, which encompassed 12 shows across five cities attracting 50,000 fans. The final show at the Nippon Budokan on August 13 was broadcast live in 38 theaters across 23 prefectures in Japan.

On July 15, 2015, Lee released his third Japanese EP, titled So Good. This album peaked at number three on Oricon's weekly albums chart, with first week sales exceeding 40,000 copies. It received praise, signifying Lee's growth into a mature artist, with emotional tracks like "Good Life" and "Pressure", giving a glimpse into his inner life. Concurrently, he embarked upon his 2015 Japan tour titled Last Night, which spanned across seven distinct cities, commencing on July 7 in Tokyo.

A total of 15 shows, including two performances at the Yokohama Arena and the World Memorial Hall each, attracted over 55,000 fans. The final show at the World Memorial Hall on August 6 was also broadcast live in 41 theaters across 32 cities nationwide.

In September, he released his debut studio album in South Korea, One, made up of Korean renditions of eleven previously released self-composed Japanese tracks. For the album's promotions, Lee made his first solo appearances on South Korean music shows including M Countdown, Music Bank, Show! Music Core and Inkigayo, performing the title track "Fire". His solo concert Last Night, held at the Olympic Hall in Seoul, spanned from September 19–20.

In July 2016, Lee released his fourth Japanese EP, DSMN. The album became Lee's first release to top both Oricon and Tower Records' daily albums charts. It also peaked at number two on Oricon's weekly albums chart. Furthermore, the pre-released single "DSMN" gained popularity on Japan's ringtone platform. Lee also held a special fan event titled Whispering Summer with Junho ~Acoustic Talk Night~ on August 22. His fourth Japanese tour, titled Hyper, culminated with two performances at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium on August 24–25. Lee was commended for producing the concert including the setlist, opening video, costume concept and stage sound and lighting. On December 3 and 4, Lee orchestrated a special encore concert titled Last Hyper Night at the Nippon Budokan, with 20,000 fans in attendance. This event was accompanied by a live viewing experience throughout Japan.

Acting career

In 2013, Lee made his debut as an actor in the surveillance action thriller Cold Eyes. He later revealed that he went to the audition for the film wearing a cast right after receiving shoulder surgery. Despite his condition, the directors and producers were impressed by his enthusiasm, and he was eventually cast after 3-4 meetings. The character, a detective nicknamed 'Giraffe,' was reworked into 'Squirrel' to fit Lee better. Director Kim Byung-seo stated that Lee was approached solely as an actor and credited him with developing the "Squirrel" character. On July 10, a music video of the track "I'm in Love," performed and composed by Lee as part of the film's soundtrack was also released.

In 2015, Lee featured in martial arts period drama Memories of the Sword. That same year, he starred alongside Kim Woo-bin and Kang Ha-neul in the coming-of-age film Twenty as an aspiring cartoonist who is forced to take on several part-time jobs after his family goes bankrupt. Lee discussed drawing on his past experiences as a trainee to portray his character. He recalled suffering from gastritis due to financial hardship and surviving on convenience store meals, and stated that he worked closely with the director to accurately express the character’s struggles and emotions. Lee was also featured on the film's soundtrack, releasing a song titled "Cupid's Arrow," in collaboration with his co-star and romantic interest in the film, Lee Yu-bi.

In 2016, Lee made his small screen debut in tvN's legal thriller Memory. He portrayed an associate lawyer named Jung Jin, a perfectionist whose strong sense of justice often strains his social life.

In 2017, Lee starred in the hit office comedy drama Good Manager. He was praised for his villainous acting in the drama as the arrogant director of finances and won the Excellence Award for an actor in a mid-length drama at the KBS Drama Awards, marking his first acting accolade. The same year, Lee landed his first lead role in JTBC's romantic melodrama series Rain or Shine. He portrayed a psychologically scarred and physically traumatized survivor of a fatal incident, losing over 7 kilograms to fit the role. Lee also participated in the soundtrack for the show, performing the track "What Words Are Needed".

In 2018, Lee was cast in his first Japanese movie, Rose and Tulip, written by popular manga artist Akiko Higashimura, in which he played a double role. He was then cast in SBS's romantic comedy drama Wok of Love, playing a star chef. The same year, he was cast in the historical comedy film Homme Fatale.

Other activities

Composition

As of October 2019, Lee had a total of 101 compositions accredited by the Korea Music Copyright Association, positioning seventh among the top idols with the most copyrighted songs. Besides producing all of the tracks on his solo releases, Lee has also composed many songs for 2PM.

Lee's initial songwriting credit on a 2PM album materialized in 2011 with the track "Give It to Me", which was included in their second studio album, Hands Up. He received his first songwriting credit in 2012 for a Japanese release with "Kimi Ga Ireba" (君がいれば; If You Are Here), the B-side track of 2PM's fourth Japanese single album, Beautiful, which was also included in their second Japanese studio album, Legend of 2PM. "This is Love" and "Forever", two other tracks by Lee, were also part of the album.

In 2012, Lee collaborated with actress Kim So-eun on MBC's program Music and Lyrics for the creation of the song "Sad Love". This single charted on various domestic music charts and was used as the theme song for MBC's weekend drama, Feast of the Gods.

The composition "Move On", a collaborative work between Lee and his bandmate Wooyoung, was included in 2PM's compilation album 2PM Best: 2008–2011 in Korea and subsequently placed at number one on Japan's Recochoku Chart. Lee also composed the track "Be With You" for Wooyoung's Korean solo debut EP 23, Male, Single.

In 2013, Lee produced the tracks "Zero Point", "Love Song", and "Go Back" for 2PM's album Grown. He also composed and performed the songs "Just a Feeling" and "I'm In Love" included on the rereleased Grand Edition of the album.

In 2014, Lee contributed the track "I Want You" for 2PM's third Japanese studio album Genesis of 2PM. Also in 2014, Lee and bandmate Nichkhun collaborated on the track "Love Is True" for the rereleased Grand Edition of 2PM's Korean album Go Crazy!

In 2015, Lee produced the track "365" for 2PM's ninth Japanese single album Guilty Love. This composition was also included in the group's fourth Japanese studio album 2PM of 2PM. "Everybody" and "Burning Love", two other tracks by Lee, were also part of the release. For 2PM's fifth Korean album titled No.5, he contributed the track titled "Nobody Else", which was described by Billboard as a "sensual cut with surging synths and slick harmonies." He produced a track titled "Chikai No Christmas" (誓いのクリスマス) on a B-version of 2PM's tenth Japanese single album Higher. He also composed and recorded a solo track titled "So Many Girls" for his version of the single album.

Collaborations

In April 2012, Lee collaborated with Mandopop artist Vanness Wu on the song "Bubai" (不敗; Undefeated) featured on the soundtrack of the Taiwanese drama Ti Amo Chocolate.

In August 2013, Lee's collaboration with Chinese singer and actress Qi Wei, titled "You're The Right One" (你是对的人) was released as part of the original soundtrack for her show Love Is Back. The music video featuring both Lee and Qi, reached the top place on YinYueTai, China's most visited music video website at the time.

Ambassadorship and endorsements

In 2012, Lee was appointed as the honorary ambassador of the 24 Hour Famine Program hosted by World Vision.

In May 2014, Lee was selected as a model for South Korean eyewear brand Look Optical.

In August 2021, Lee and bandmate Chansung were appointed as models for Dongwon Tuna. They featured in a commercial styled as the debut music video of a rookie project group named Team Chichi; the song was titled "Oh. My. God. Tuna!" (오. 마이. 갓. 참치!). In October, Lee was selected as the face of French luxury retailer L'Occitane's 2021 Holiday Magic Collection. He was also chosen as the model for South Korean wellness & nutrition brand Paperbag. In November, Lee was appointed as a model by South Korean athleisure brand Xexymix.

In February 2022, Lee was selected as a model for Subway's "Better Choice" advertisement campaign. He was also chosen as a model for Domino's Korea alongside Hyeri. In March, he was appointed as the brand ambassador for South Korean ramyeon company Paldo Bibimmen, and Belgian chocolate maker Godiva to celebrate its 10th anniversary in Korea. In April, he was chosen by Daesang Life Science as a model for its protein brand My Meal. In May, he was selected as the ambassador for South Korean home and kitchen appliances maker Cuckoo Electronics, a role he has continued in to the present day. In July, Lee was chosen as a model by L'Occitane for its 2022 Verbena Summer Paradise campaign. In August, Lee was selected as a model for Lotte Duty Free to promote international tourism. As part of the promotion, he starred in a short drama titled LDF Original Series which was released on social media in November 2022.

In January 2023, he was appointed as an ambassador for French luxury goods company Dior in South Korea. In December, he was selected as a model by South Korean organic pet food manufacturer OSP for its brand Indigo Paw.

In February 2024, Lee was selected as a model for South Korean outdoor apparel company NEPA, joining An Yu-jin as the brand's representative. In April, Lee was appointed as the first Korean global ambassador for Swiss luxury watchmaker and jeweller Piaget. He was also selected as the global ambassador for Korean cosmetic brand The SAEM.

Television shows

In 2012, Lee and his bandmates participated in MBC's God of Victory, where they competed against the members of Shinhwa. Lee won the segment "Breaking Chopsticks With His Butt", as he was able to break 28 chopstick pairs in under 15 seconds.

In 2013, Lee's solo variety show titled Junho (From 2PM)'s Say Yes ~Friendship~ was broadcast on Tokyo MX. The show featured Lee traveling across different places in Japan to make friends along with invited Japanese celebrities.

In March 2025, Lee became the first Korean actor to appear on SBT's The Noite com Danilo Gentili, Brazil's premier late-night talk show.

On February 26, 2026, it was revealed that Lee had been cast in the second season of Kian's Bizarre B&B alongside Kian84, Kim Yeon-koung, and Kazuha. The show is set to be released on Netflix on September 22, 2026.

Personal life

Military service

On May 30, 2019, Lee began his military service as a public service worker. Due to a severe shoulder injury sustained in 2010 during acrobatics practice and for which he underwent major surgery in 2012, he was deemed unfit for active duty. Lee was discharged on March 20, 2021.

Health

Lee has sustained several serious injuries during his career. In a 2014 interview, Lee revealed he tore the labrum in his shoulder while preparing acrobatics for 2PM's comeback with "I'll Be Back" in 2010. He was unable to undergo surgery at the time and filmed the music video for the track a week after the injury while taking up to eight painkillers at a time. In a 2025 interview, Lee stated that eight holes were drilled in his shoulder during the subsequent surgery to repair the tear. Despite continued rehabilitation, a full recovery was not made and Lee was told that he may only be able to regain about 80% functionality in his arm. He was prescribed painkillers when involved in activities that strain his shoulder.

In November 2012, Lee suffered a back injury during a rehearsal for 2PM's What Time Is It? concert tour in Shanghai. He was diagnosed with a spinal fracture, with further examination revealing herniated discs in the third and fifth vertebrae and a fracture in the fourth vertebra. In a 2025 interview, Lee recalled that the spinal injury occurred after he felt a crack during a stage rehearsal. The nerve damage worsened to the point that the pain radiated to his head and he eventually collapsed. He was taken to the hospital, where an X-ray showed that the fourth vertebra was fractured. Although he was required to wear a back brace and was experiencing significant swelling, Lee proceeded with the performance and participated in the entire tour. He explained that he viewed performing despite the injury as a promise to his fans who had come to see the performance, while acknowledging that attitudes toward performing with injuries at the time differed from those of today.

In December 2013, Lee injured his index finger while filming an action scene on the set of Memories of the Sword.

In March 2022, JYP Entertainment announced that Lee had been diagnosed with COVID-19.

In February 2025, it was reported that Lee had sustained a grade 2 sprain to his left ankle during dance practice on the eve of his scheduled Midnight Sun fan-concert at Inspire Arena and was receiving treatment. He subsequently used crutches at the airport while departing for Japan. Despite the injury, Lee performed both scheduled shows of the Japanese leg of his Midnight Sun fan-concert tour, incorporating a cane into his performances.

Philanthropy

Since 2011, Lee has been associated with World Vision through sponsorship of children in Ethiopia and Ghana. In 2012, he was appointed as an ambassador and visited Ethiopia to meet elephantiasis patients and the children he was supporting, including a young child named Felmeta, who he referred to as dongsaeng ("younger brother"). In November 2018, Lee took part in World Vision's "Global 6K for Water" donation run, where he was reunited with Felmeta.

In March 2020, Lee donated 30 million won to support socially vulnerable children suffering because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In June 2024, Lee joined the Honor Society, a group of major donors exceeding 100 million won in contributions, organized by the Social Welfare Joint Fundraising Association, through Shinhan Financial Group's campaign. In December, Lee donated 100 million won to the Samsung Medical Center to support the treatment of vulnerable children and adolescents. In March 2025, Lee donated 100 million won to help children and residents affected by the wildfires in South Gyeongsang Province and North Gyeongsang Province.

Building on Lee's goodwill, his fans have contributed to World Vision to mark various occasions, leading to what has been described as "a virtuous cycle of artist and fandom." During his visit to Ethiopia, Lee was deeply moved by the lack of clean water available to Felmeta and other locals. In March 2015, fans from Korea, Japan and Thailand donated over 26 million won in three weeks to help install drinking water pumps. In 2022, Lee's fan club "DC Inside Lee Junho Gallery" donated 5 million won in commemoration of his birthday. In 2025, Lee donated 12.5 million won to help support children in crisis, marking its sixth contribution since 2022.

Real estate

In February 2019, Lee acquired two units in a luxury office building in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul.

In August 2024, it was reported that Lee had purchased a commercial building on Apgujeong Rodeo Street in Sinsa-dong, Seoul, back in March. The building previously owned by the late actress Kang Soo-yeon was acquired through Lee's family corporation, JF Company, for a reported value of 17.5 billion won.

Privacy concerns

In December 2018, Lee issued a public warning after harassment and hacking incidents targeting his family, stating he would pursue legal action. He also requested that fans respect his family’s privacy, including refraining from contacting them or taking unauthorized photos.

In July 2023, an internet user was fined 3 million won for repeatedly spreading false and defamatory posts about Lee, following legal action by his agency. JYP Entertainment announced it would continue taking strict legal measures against malicious commenters without leniency.

In a 2024 interview, Lee spoke about severe privacy intrusions by fans, including people showing up at his home late at night after misinterpreting lyrics of the popular 2PM track "My House". He recounted multiple encounters, such as strangers ringing his doorbell at 3am and a fan traveling from overseas to wait outside his residence.

Public image

From 2013 to 2018, Lee released an extended play and embarked on a concert tour in Japan every summer, earning him the nickname "Lee Natsu" ("Lee Summer") in the country.

In 2020, the title track of 2PM's 2015 album No.5, "My House", climbed back to the top of multiple streaming charts as fancams of Lee's performance of the song became a belated sensation and went viral on YouTube. Despite being in the military at the time, his popularity skyrocketed, and he earned the moniker "Urijib Junho" ("My House Junho").

Lee is widely regarded among the best idol-turned-actors, with him being ranked first among all male idol-actors by a 2023 poll of entertainment insiders. He is the only idol-actor to win Best Actor at the Baeksang Arts Awards and the Korea PD Awards, as well as the Grand Prize for Actor of the Year at the Asia Artist Awards and the APAN Star Awards. Lee has been cited as a role model by many younger idols and actors including Jay B, Jinyoung, Dahyun, Kang Daniel and Kim Jae-won.

Discography

One (2015)

Two (2019)

Filmography