Born on May 16, 1993, in Seoul, Lee Ji-eun—better known as IU—is one of the biggest artists in the Hallyu wave. She made her debut as a singer in 2008 and became a true icon thanks to cult classics such as “Good Day,” “You & I,” “Palette,” and “Blueming.” But over the years, she has also established herself as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
After a promising start in Dream High, IU proves her potential with You're the Best! and Bel Ami. His career took on a new dimension thanks to The Producers, before moving the audience in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo. In 2018, her moving performance in My Mister has been unanimously praised and marks a turning point. It was followed by the phenomenal success of Hotel del Luna, where her portrayal of the mysterious Jang Man-wol became one of the most iconic roles in modern K-dramas.
IU then went on to prove her talent in film with Broker by Hirokazu Kore-eda, which was screened in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, and then returns to television in 2025 with When Life Gives You Tangerines. Her on-screen partnership with Park Bo-gum and her portrayal of Ae-sun have earned her another wave of praise and cemented her status as an exceptional actress.
In 2026, she continued her rise with Perfect Crown (Wife of a 21st Century Prince), where she stars alongside Byeon Woo-seok in a highly anticipated royal romance. Across music, film, and television, IU has established herself as a well-rounded artist, capable of topping music charts as well as starring in the most acclaimed K-dramas of her generation.
