Following the recent reveal of aespa Karina‘s relationship with actor Lee Jae Wook, there’s been a burgeoning curiosity among K-Pop fans about who Lee is, beyond his new-found status as Karina’s boyfriend.
Born on May 10, 1998, Lee Jae Wook is a South Korean actor and model who has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most promising talents in the industry. His journey into the limelight began with his acting debut in the science fiction thriller Memories of the Alhambra (2018–2019), where his performance garnered attention and acclaim.
| @jxxvvxxk/Instagram
Lee’s career trajectory took a significant upturn following his role in the office romance Search: WWW (2019) — a project that solidified his status as a rising star. His versatility was further showcased in a variety of genres, from his big screen debut in the war film The Battle of Jangsari (2019) to his engaging performances in the popular school series Extraordinary You (2019) and the melodrama When The Weather Is Fine (2020).
Lee in “Extraordinary You” | MBC
The actor’s charm and talent truly shone when he landed his first lead role in the romantic comedy Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol (2020). However, it was his portrayal in the hit fantasy period drama Alchemy of Souls (2022) and its sequel Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow (2022–2023) that catapulted him into widespread fame, making him a household name and a significant contributor to the global Hallyu wave.
Lee in “Alchemy of Souls” | tvN
Lee Jae Wook’s appeal extends beyond his acting prowess — he is also a highly sought-after model. Since February 2020, he has been the face of contemporary casual brand AD HOC and street casual brand N DOZEN. His endorsement deals with high-end brands like Prada, Lancôme, Dior, Nike, Berluti, Armani, Zegna, EX NIHILO, and Fendi speak volumes about his marketability and influence.
Lee Jae Wook is not just a talented star but also values education, attending Chung-Ang University’s Department of Theater and Film. However, as of January 2023, he took a leave of absence to focus on his growing acting career.
| @jxxvvxxk/Instagram
The actor’s hard work and talent have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the “Global Excellence Award” at the Korea Drama Awards and the “Asia Special Award” at the 17th Asia Model Awards. His performances have also earned him the “Best Actor Award” at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards and “Best New Actor” at both the 2020 Baeksang Arts Awards and the 2019 MBC Drama Awards, marking him as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
Lee Jaewook won the hallyu star award at Korea Drama Awards 2022. Congrats uri Jang Uk so proud of you #leejaewook #이재욱 #alchemyofsoulspic.twitter.com/HT7WNavcpd
— 황민현 (@MrsOptimusHwang) October 8, 2022
Understanding the importance of connecting with his fans, Lee Jae Wook also recently embarked on the 2023 Lee Jae Wook Asia Tour Fan Meeting, which kicked off in Seoul on January 14.
JAEWOOK’S EYE SMILE, HIS CHEEKS, HIS DIMPLES AHHHHH I MISS HIM ALREADY I’M GONNA CRY #LeeJaeWookinMNL #LeeJaeWookFIRSTinMNL #LeeJaeWook pic.twitter.com/heehk0xTqZ
— mae | grieving (@kdramatannies) March 12, 2023
I fell inlove with him even more. His singing voiceee #LeeJaeWookFanMeetinginMNL#LeeJaeWookinMNL#LeeJaeWookFIRSTinMNL pic.twitter.com/uKQkRtncs9
— clarence (@taetnyangie) March 11, 2023
As K-Pop fans and the wider public continue to follow the unfolding story of Karina and Lee Jae Wook’s relationship, it’s clear that Lee is not just a significant other to a popular idol but a formidable talent and beloved figure in his own right.
