Korean superstar Lee Junho, a member of the K-pop boy group 2PM, is celebrating his 35th birthday today. What better way to honor this special occasion than by exploring his expanding acting portfolio?
Junho has made a successful transition from K-pop idol to actor, receiving acclaim for his versatility. His journey from idol to actor features a series of captivating performances that have enchanted his loyal fans.
The singer-actor made his acting debut in the 2013 film “Cold Eyes,” where he portrayed a skillful member of a surveillance team within a group of detectives. This initial venture into acting showcased his talent and opened up opportunities for more future roles.
In 2015, he starred in the coming-of-age film “Twenty,” playing a college student who navigates the challenges of adulthood alongside co-stars Kim Woo-bin and Kang Ha-neul.
Junho’s television debut occurred with the 2017 series “Good Manager,” in which he took on the role of Seo Yool, a cunning prosecutor who becomes an executive. His performance as the antagonist garnered acclaim for his ability to portray complex characters. That same year, he led the cast of “Rain or Shine”, portraying Lee Gang-doo, a construction worker dealing with past traumas. This role underscored his talent for conveying deep emotional nuances.
In 2018, Junho starred in “Wok of Love,” a romantic comedy set in a Chinese restaurant, where he played Seo Poong, a talented chef facing personal and professional challenges. His role in this series further demonstrated his range as an actor.
A significant milestone in Junho’s acting career was his portrayal of King Jeongjo in the 2021 historical drama “The Red Sleeve.” His performance as the young monarch earned him the Best Actor award at the 58th Baeksang Arts Awards, making him the first idol-actor to receive this honor.
In 2023, Junho returned to the small screen with hit Korean drama “King the Land,” a romantic drama where he played Gu Won, a chaebol heir entangled in a love story with a hotelier, portrayed by Girl’s Generation member Im Yoon-ah. The series was well-received, further cementing his status as one of the top leading men in Korean television.
This 2025, Junho is in talks to star in the upcoming Netflix series “Cashero,” based on a webtoon. While details are still under wraps, fans eagerly anticipate his next project, confident in his ability to bring depth and charisma to any role he undertakes.