Lee Wan, South Korean actor
Lee Wan, born Kim Hyung-soo on January 3, 1984, is a distinguished South Korean actor renowned for his versatile performances across various television dramas and films. His professional journey in the highly competitive Korean entertainment industry began in the early 2000s, quickly establishing him as a recognizable face.
Born Kim Hyung-soo in South Korea, he adopted the stage name Lee Wan for his acting career, a common practice among South Korean celebrities to create a distinct public persona. Notably, he is the younger brother of globally acclaimed actress Kim Tae-hee, a prominent figure known for her iconic roles in dramas such as "Stairway to Heaven" (2003) and "Iris" (2009). This familial connection has often drawn initial public attention, though Lee Wan has carved out his own unique path in the industry through consistent work and talent.
A Versatile Acting Career
Lee Wan's acting debut was in the 2003 SBS drama 천국의 계단 (Stairway to Heaven), where he portrayed the younger counterpart of the male lead, Cha Song-joo. This role provided a significant platform, notably alongside his sister, Kim Tae-hee, who also appeared in the series. Following this impactful debut, he consistently took on diverse roles, showcasing his ability to portray a wide range of characters from romantic leads to more complex, dramatic figures.
Key dramas in his filmography include:
- 백설공주 (Snow White: Taste Sweet Love, 2004), a romantic comedy where he played the male lead, demonstrating his appeal in lighthearted genres.
- 작은 아씨들 (Little Women, 2004), a family drama that further cemented his presence and dramatic range.
- 해변으로 가요 (Let's Go to the Beach, 2005), where he took on a more mature role, showcasing his development as an actor.
- 인어이야기 (Tree of Heaven, 2006), a poignant melodrama filmed in Japan and South Korea, which garnered him significant international recognition, particularly in Japan, solidifying his status as a Hallyu (Korean Wave) star.
- 우리 갑순이 (Our Gap-soon, 2016-2017), a long-running weekend drama that marked his successful return to television after a hiatus due to mandatory military service.
Beyond television, Lee Wan has also participated in films such as 소년, 천국에 가다 (Boy Goes to Heaven, 2005), expanding his artistic repertoire and demonstrating his commitment to diverse storytelling across different media.
Like all able-bodied South Korean men, Lee Wan fulfilled his mandatory military service, enlisting in July 2010 and being discharged in April 2012. This hiatus is a common phase for male actors in South Korea, often leading to a temporary pause in their careers before their triumphant return to the entertainment scene, as was the case for Lee Wan.
In terms of his personal life, Lee Wan married professional golfer Lee Bo-mee on December 28, 2019. This public union was widely reported in South Korean media, highlighting his transition into a new and significant chapter of his life.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lee Wan
- What is Lee Wan's real name?
- Lee Wan's birth name is Kim Hyung-soo (김형수).
- When was Lee Wan born?
- He was born on January 3, 1984.
- Is Lee Wan related to Kim Tae-hee?
- Yes, Lee Wan is the younger brother of acclaimed South Korean actress Kim Tae-hee, known for her roles in popular dramas like "Stairway to Heaven" and "Iris."
- What are some of Lee Wan's most notable dramas?
- Some of his well-known television dramas include "Stairway to Heaven" (2003), "Snow White: Taste Sweet Love" (2004), "Tree of Heaven" (2006), and "Our Gap-soon" (2016-2017).
- Did Lee Wan serve in the military?
- Yes, he completed his mandatory military service in South Korea, enlisting in July 2010 and being discharged in April 2012.
- Is Lee Wan married?
- Yes, Lee Wan is married to professional golfer Lee Bo-mee. They tied the knot on December 28, 2019.