If you’re a fan of Korean dramas or cinema, you’ve probably come across the name Ju Ji-hoon. With his tall stature, sharp features, and undeniable talent, Ju Ji-hoon has carved a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. But who exactly is this versatile actor? Let’s take a deep dive into the life and career of Ju Ji-hoon, a star who has proven time and again that he’s more than just a pretty face.
From Modeling to Acting: Ju Ji-hoon’s Early Years
Born on May 16, 1982, Ju Ji-hoon is now 42 years old (as of 2025). Hailing from Seoul, South Korea, Ju didn’t initially set out to become an actor. In fact, his first foray into the entertainment industry was as a model. Standing at an impressive 6’3” (190 cm), Ju Ji-hoon’s striking looks and towering presence quickly made him a favorite in the fashion world. He became a sought-after model for high-profile brands like Calvin Klein, Levi’s, and Reebok. By the early 2000s, he had firmly established himself as one of South Korea’s top models.
However, Ju had bigger dreams. He didn’t want to limit himself to the runway or glossy magazine covers. With a desire to explore storytelling and bring characters to life, he transitioned into acting—and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Breakthrough: “Princess Hours”
Ju Ji-hoon made his acting debut in 2006 with the romantic comedy-drama Princess Hours (Goong). The drama, based on a popular manhwa (Korean comic), was an instant hit and catapulted Ju to fame. He played the role of Crown Prince Lee Shin, a stoic yet vulnerable character caught in a royal love triangle. Fans were immediately smitten by his portrayal, and Ju’s career skyrocketed almost overnight.
Though Ju was relatively new to acting at the time, his performance in Princess Hours earned him accolades and a massive fan base. The drama’s success also opened doors for him to explore more complex and challenging roles.
Diversifying His Portfolio
After his breakthrough, Ju Ji-hoon didn’t rest on his laurels. Instead, he focused on diversifying his acting portfolio. He starred in the psychological thriller The Devil (2007), where he played a lawyer entangled in a web of revenge and murder. The role showcased his ability to portray darker, more nuanced characters and solidified his reputation as a serious actor.
Over the years, Ju has tackled a wide range of genres, from romantic dramas to action-packed blockbusters. Some of his notable works include:
- Antique (2008): A quirky film about four men running a bakery.
- Along with the Gods series (2017-2018): A fantasy drama about the afterlife, where Ju played the role of a stoic god.
- Kingdom (2019-2020): A Netflix original series that combines historical drama with a zombie apocalypse. Ju’s role as Crown Prince Lee Chang earned him international recognition.
Personal Life: Family, Relationships, and More
Despite his fame, Ju Ji-hoon has managed to keep his personal life relatively private. While he has been linked to a few romantic relationships over the years, he’s never been one to flaunt his love life in public. As of 2025, Ju is not married and has not publicly disclosed any current romantic partners.
Family plays an important role in Ju’s life. Though he rarely speaks about his parents or siblings, it’s evident that he values his roots. In interviews, he has mentioned how his family’s support has been a constant source of strength throughout his career.
Overcoming Challenges: The 2009 Controversy
No journey is without its hurdles, and Ju Ji-hoon’s career is no exception. In 2009, he faced a major setback when he was involved in a drug scandal. Ju admitted to using ecstasy and ketamine and was subsequently sentenced to probation and community service. The controversy temporarily derailed his career, and he took a hiatus from the entertainment industry.
However, Ju used this period for self-reflection and personal growth. When he made his comeback in 2011, he did so with renewed focus and determination. His fans—many of whom stood by him during the scandal—welcomed him back with open arms. Ju’s ability to bounce back from adversity has been one of the defining aspects of his career.
Ju Ji-hoon’s Net Worth in 2025
Thanks to his successful acting career and past modeling ventures, Ju Ji-hoon has amassed a significant fortune. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $15 million. This wealth comes not only from his acting projects but also from endorsements, brand collaborations, and royalties from his works. Despite his financial success, Ju remains grounded and continues to focus on honing his craft.
International Recognition
While Ju Ji-hoon was already a household name in South Korea, his role in Netflix’s Kingdom introduced him to a global audience. The series, praised for its gripping storyline and high production value, became a cultural phenomenon. Ju’s portrayal of Crown Prince Lee Chang—a leader fighting to save his people from both political intrigue and a zombie plague—was widely acclaimed.
Thanks to Kingdom, Ju gained a substantial international fan base and became a prominent figure in the global Hallyu (Korean Wave) movement. His ability to convey emotion and depth made him a standout performer in a highly competitive industry.
