Lee Jun Young, a South Korean actor and singer, is currently captivating audiences with his role in the drama Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale (2024). In this show, he portrays Moon Cha Min, the son of a South Korean conglomerate who manages a hotel and struggles with trust issues in love. Despite being only 27 years old, Lee Jun Young has already had an extensive and fascinating career. Let’s dive into four intriguing facts about his journey in the entertainment industry and his venture into founding his own agency.
1. Early Debuts in U-KISS and UNB
Lee Jun Young made his first big splash in the entertainment world at just 17 years old by joining the boy group U-KISS. This group, known for its multinational theme, formed in 2008. In 2014, when one of the U-KISS members, AJ, left to continue his education, Lee Jun Young stepped in under the stage name Jun.
After a successful stint with U-KISS, Lee Jun Young participated in the talent show The Unit in 2017. His performance earned him a spot in the project group UNB, which debuted in 2018. This experience showcased his versatility and determination to succeed in the competitive world of K-pop.
2. Transition to Acting and Musical Theater
Not content with just a singing career, Lee Jun Young ventured into musical theater in 2015 with the Korean-Japanese production On Air-Night Flight. He further impressed audiences with his role in Run to You at the Zepp Blue Theater in Tokyo. Here, he played Jae Min, an ambitious character known for his rapping and dancing skills.
In 2017, Lee Jun Young made his acting debut in the drama Avengers Social Club. Initially hesitant to take on acting, his appearance on Hong Seok Cheon’s Jewelry Box revealed his fears. However, his determination paid off, and he soon became a recognized face in the acting world.
3. Rising Fame Through Antagonistic Roles
Lee Jun Young’s acting career gained significant momentum with his role in the drama Class of Lies (2019). In this series, he played Yoo Beom Jin, a high-achieving student with a mysterious side. This role solidified his reputation as an actor capable of delivering compelling performances, especially as antagonistic characters.
His versatility continued to shine through in various dramas and films, with notable roles in DP (2021) and Mask Girl (2023). These performances have made him a favorite among Korean drama enthusiasts, who appreciate his ability to portray complex and often dark characters.
4. Solo Music Career and Founding J.Flex Agency
In 2019, Lee Jun Young branched out as a solo artist, releasing singles like “Phenomenal World” and “Never Too Late”. He celebrated these releases with showcases and solo concerts in Tokyo and Osaka, further establishing his presence in the music scene.
In 2021, Lee Jun Young took a significant step in his career by founding his own agency, J.Flex. This move allowed him to take control of his career trajectory and focus more on his acting. With J.Flex, he aims to support his artistic endeavors fully and carve out a unique space for himself in the entertainment industry.
At a young age, Lee Jun Young has already spent over a decade in the entertainment world, navigating various challenges and seizing opportunities across different fields. His journey is a testament to his dedication and talent. Be sure to catch him in Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale and continue supporting his future projects!
Lee Jun Young’s career is an inspiring tale of perseverance and versatility. From his early days in U-KISS to founding his own agency, his story is a reminder that success often comes from embracing challenges and exploring new horizons. What do you think of his journey so far? Let us know in the comments!
