Lee Byung-hun is one of the most celebrated South Korean actors who has successfully transcended international boundaries with his iconic performances in both Korean cinema and Hollywood. Known for his magnetic screen presence, exceptional range as an actor, and enduring legacy, Lee has remained a dominant figure in the entertainment world for over three decades.
As of 2025, Lee Byung-hun’s net worth reflects his consistent dedication, with ventures extending beyond acting into endorsements, investments, and global influence. This in-depth article explores [Lee Byung-hun] Net Worth and Biography, diving into the milestones that shaped his life and career, his journey, global achievements, and how he amassed a multimillion-dollar fortune.
Quick Facts
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lee Byung-hun |
| Date of Birth | July 12, 1970 |
| Birthplace | Seongnam, Gyeonggi, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Profession | Actor, Model, Former Singer |
| Years Active | 1991–present |
| Spouse | Lee Min-jung |
| Children | One (Lee Joon-hoo) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $25 million |
| @byunghun0712 |
Who is Lee Byung-hun?
Lee Byung-hun (Korean: 이병헌), born on July 12, 1970, is a renowned South Korean actor, model, and former singer. Recognized for his emotional depth and versatility, he is widely credited with paving the way for Korean actors in global cinema. Over the years, Lee has starred in an array of box-office hits and critically acclaimed dramas, including Mr. Sunshine, I Saw the Devil, A Bittersweet Life, and Squid Game. He is often praised for seamlessly transitioning from romantic leads to intense action roles.
Internationally, he gained massive recognition through his role as Storm Shadow in G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra and G.I. Joe: Retaliation, and later in The Magnificent Seven. With awards from prestigious platforms like Baeksang and Blue Dragon, Lee Byung-hun remains a household name in Asia and a respected figure in Hollywood.
Early Life and Childhood
Lee Byung-hun was born in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. Raised in a middle-class household, he grew up with his businessman father, Park Jae-soon, his mother, and his sister, Lee Eun-hee, who later became Miss Korea in 1996. Despite his shy demeanour as a child, Lee exhibited a natural charisma and a curiosity about storytelling and performance.
His childhood was characterized by discipline, strong family values, and a deep inclination toward literature and foreign languages. These early interests laid the foundation for his pursuit of acting. Initially, Lee had aspirations of entering the music industry, but fate led him to a successful audition with KBS in 1991, setting him on the path to stardom.
Career and Achievements
Breakthrough Moments
Lee’s early career began with minor television roles, but it was his performance in Joint Security Area (2000) that became a turning point.
His portrayal of a conflicted soldier earned him national recognition and launched him into the film industry’s A-list. He followed this with Bungee Jumping of Their Own and A Bittersweet Life, further cementing his status.
Major Works and Awards
Lee’s filmography is filled with hits:
- The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2008)
- I Saw the Devil (2010)
- Masquerade (2012)
- Inside Men (2015)
- The Man Standing Next (2020)
- Concrete Utopia (2023)
- Squid Game (2021–2025)
He has received numerous awards, including:
- Blue Dragon Film Award for Best Actor (Concrete Utopia, 2023)
- Baeksang Arts Award for Inside Men (2016)
- Daejong Film Awards for Masquerade and Ashfall
Education Background
Lee studied French Literature at Hanyang University and later pursued graduate studies in Theater and Film at Chung-Ang University.
His academic background in literature and theatre greatly influenced his ability to understand diverse roles, adding depth to his performances.
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Breakthrough Moment and Rise to Fame
Lee’s cinematic breakthrough came with Joint Security Area, but global stardom followed his Hollywood debut in G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. His villainous role as Storm Shadow captivated Western audiences.
Later, Mr. Sunshine (2018) marked another turning point, as his performance garnered both critical and commercial success, making it a major international K-drama hit.
Personal Life and Relationships
Lee Byung-hun married actress Lee Min-jung in August 2013. Despite facing challenges early in their marriage, the couple has remained strong and welcomed their son, Lee Joon-hoo, in 2015.
Lee is known to be a devoted family man who values privacy and spends quality time with his loved ones despite his busy career.
Family Details
- Father: In-Chul Lee (Late)
- Mother: Park Jae-soon
- Sister: Lee Eun-hee (Miss Korea 1996)
- Wife: Lee Min-jung (Actress)
- Son: Lee Joon-hoo
Lee’s family has played a significant role in shaping his grounded personality. His sister’s success in pageantry and his wife’s steady acting career add to the star power of this celebrity household.
Physical Appearance
| Feature | Measurement |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 71 kg (156.5 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Body Measurements | 42-33-14 inches |
Lee Byung-hun Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, Lee Byung-hun’s net worth is estimated at $25 million.
Sources of Income
- Film and TV Projects: Both Korean and international.
- Endorsements: Montblanc, Louis Vuitton, Chanel.
- Appearances: Red carpets, award ceremonies, international promotions.
Real Estate and Assets
Lee owns luxury properties in Seoul’s high-end neighbourhoods and investments in commercial real estate. He is also believed to own vacation homes and a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, among other luxury vehicles.
Endorsements and Businesses
He has been the face of luxury brands and has stakes in entertainment-related businesses, including production companies that support rising Korean talent.
Ethnicity, Nationality, and Religion
Lee Byung-hun is of South Korean ethnicity and holds South Korean nationality. He follows Buddhism, which influences his philosophical outlook and calm demeanour.
Social Media Presence of Lee Byung-hun
Though relatively private, Lee maintains a presence on Instagram under @byunghun0712, where he shares glimpses of his professional life, occasional family moments, and brand collaborations. He has over 2 million followers, mainly from Korea, Japan, and the U.S.
Controversies and Public Image
Lee has faced a few controversies, including a blackmail case in 2014. However, his candid public apology and continued dedication to his craft helped him recover professionally. Today, he is respected for his resilience and humility.
Recent Updates about Lee Byung-hun in 2025
In 2025, Lee returned to Netflix’s Squid Game 3 as the mysterious Front Man. His performance continues to receive global praise. He was also announced as a lead in The Match, a film based on the historic Go rivalry, alongside Yoo Ah-in.
Latest News or Projects
Lee is currently filming It Is What It Is, set for a late-2025 release. The drama-comedy film explores the complexities of aging and identity, showcasing Lee’s evolving acting range. He’s also rumoured to be working on a directorial debut.
Interesting Facts About Lee Byung-hun
- First Korean actor to present an award at the Oscars (2016)
- Holds a black belt in Taekwondo
- Fluent in English and conversational in Japanese
- An avid photographer and art collector
- Role model for younger Korean stars like Park Seo-Joon
(FAQs) About Lee Byung-hun
1. What is Lee Byung-hun’s net worth in 2025? Lee Byung-hun’s estimated net worth is $25 million.
2. What is Lee Byung-hun best known for? He’s known for Mr. Sunshine, Squid Game, G.I. Joe, and A Bittersweet Life.
3. Is Lee Byung-hun married? Yes, he is married to actress Lee Min-jung.
4. Does Lee Byung-hun have children? Yes, a son named Lee Joon-hoo was born in 2015.
5. What was Lee Byung-hun’s Hollywood debut? G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009) as Storm Shadow.
Conclusion
Lee Byung-hun’s journey from a young actor in Seongnam to a global cinematic icon is genuinely remarkable. With over three decades of experience, a rich portfolio of acclaimed roles, and a significant net worth, he continues to influence both Korean and international entertainment.
As of 2025, Lee stands as a symbol of talent, resilience, and artistic evolution. With new projects on the horizon and an ever-growing fan base, his legacy is only set to grow.