From being a lawmaker's assistant in "Chief of Staff," Lee Jung Jae transformed as debt-ridden Seong Gi Hun in the mega-hit Netflix series "Squid Game."
The 48-year-old actor is creating a buzz globally after starring in the thriller Kdrama opposite the equally talented Park Hae Soo.
In the nine-episode series, 456 participants are chosen to play the deadly children's game in an attempt to take home a whopping cash prize of 45.6 billion won. Unfortunately, there will only be one winner.
As the Hwang Dong Hyuk-directed drama is making waves internationally, the "Squid Game" cast are getting the attention they deserve.
With that being said, let's get to know more about Lee Jung Jae, who played a pivotal role in the Netflix series.
Before the Fame
Due to his stunning features, Lee Jung Jae started out as a fashion model while working at a local cafe in Apgujeong.
In 1993, he made his acting debut after starring in the drama "Dinosaur Teacher."
Since then, there's no stopping then 21-year-old newbie actor from landing top rating series and becoming one of the most sought after leading men.
The 1994 romance series "Feelings" put him on the map as the rising star in his generation.
Interestingly, the SBS series "Sandglass" prompted the rise of Lee Jung Jae's status as the national heartthrob.
READ MORE: 5 'Squid Game' Cast You Need To Follow On Instagram ASAP + Jung Ho Yeon Instagram Now Has 2.4 Million Followers
Achievements Through the Years
With his almost three-decade-long career in showbiz, Lee Jung Jae has amassed numerous recognitions and achievements under his belt.
His first-ever award is with the 1994 KBS Drama Awards, where he won Best Actor for the series "Feelings."
The 48-year-old star also received numerous awards from prestigious award-giving bodies such as Baeksang Arts, Blue Dragon, and more.
Lee Jung Jae Net Worth: Is He Richer than his 'Squid Game'
With his accolade of achievements, it is safe to say that the actor is taking some big cash per episode.
From starting as a model with a part-time job at a cafe, the A-lister has definitely come a long way because of his impeccable talent and charm.
According to idolnetworth.com, Lee Jung Jae's net worth sits at an estimated 5 million USD as of 2021, making him richer than his fellow "Squid Game" cast Park Hae Soo with a net worth of 1 million to 4 million USD as cited by wikiborn.com.
Where Does Lee Jung Jae Spend His Millions?
In a 2015 article noted by a media outlet, the A-lister reportedly owns a lavish "dating car" he used to drive with his then-girlfriend, I'm Se Ryeong, an executive director of Daesang Group.
Lee Jung Jae has Porsche that is valued at around 150 million KRW or 127,600 USD
Apart from tithe, the actor spends his money wisely by investing in a business.
Reports mentioned that he founded a real estate development company in 208 named Seorim C&D in 2008 and owned a few businesses with actor and best friend Jung Woo Sung, one of which is the entertainment label Artist Company.
Unfortunately, the duo stepped down as the CEO in 2017 to focus on their acting career.
