Don Lee Biography, Net Worth, Age, Family, Ethnicity

Who is Don Lee?

Don Lee, also known by his Korean name Ma Dong-seok, is a South Korean-American actor and film producer. He rose to international fame with his breakout role in the 2016 zombie thriller Train to Busan, and later gained global recognition through his portrayal of Gilgamesh in Marvel’s Eternals (2021). Known for his rugged physique and charismatic screen presence, Don Lee has become one of South Korea’s most bankable stars.

Don Lee Biography

Born Lee Dong-seok on March 1, 1971, in Seoul, South Korea, Don Lee immigrated to the United States during his teenage years. He became a U.S. citizen at 19 and studied at Columbus State Community College in Ohio. Before entering the entertainment industry, he worked as a personal trainer for MMA fighters like Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman.

Don Lee began his acting career in South Korea in the early 2000s, gaining attention for supporting roles in films like Nameless Gangster and The Neighbor. His performance in Train to Busan catapulted him to stardom, and he solidified his reputation with lead roles in The Outlaws, The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil, and The Roundup series. He also co-founded Team Gorilla, a production company involved in screenwriting and film development.

Don Lee Net Worth

As of 2025, Don Lee’s net worth is estimated to be between $7.1 million and $7.5 million. His income stems from acting, producing, endorsements, and his production company. His involvement in blockbuster films and international projects has significantly boosted his financial standing.

Don Lee Family

Don Lee keeps much of his family life private. He has one younger brother, and his family emigrated to the U.S. when he was a teenager. He is married to Ye Jung-hwa, a fitness trainer and media personality, and they have one daughter, born in 2017.

Don Lee Age

Don Lee was born on March 1, 1971, which makes him 54 years old as of today.

He’s still bringing powerhouse performances with the energy of someone half his age—proof that charisma and muscle don’t have an expiration date.

Don Lee Ethnicity

Don Lee, whose birth name is Lee Dong-seok and is also known by his Korean name Ma Dong-seok, is ethnically Korean. He was born in Seoul, South Korea, and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen.

His career and public identity reflect both his Korean heritage and American nationality, and he often portrays characters that highlight his roots and rugged charisma in Korean and international films.

Don Lee Nationality

Although born in South Korea, Don Lee holds American nationality. He became a U.S. citizen at the age of 19.

Don Lee Birthday

Lee was born on March 1, 1971, in Seoul, South Korea. That makes him a proud Pisces—maybe that explains the charisma and strength combo he brings to the screen.

Don Lee Wife

Don Lee, also known as Ma Dong-seok, is married to Ye Jung-hwa, a South Korean fitness trainer, model, and former sports reporter. The couple began dating in 2016 and officially registered their marriage in 2021, though they delayed their wedding ceremony due to Don Lee’s busy filming schedule and the COVID-19 pandemic.

They finally held a private wedding ceremony on May 25, 2024, in Seoul, attended by close family and friends. Ye Jung-hwa, often referred to as “Korea’s prettiest fitness trainer,” is 17 years younger than Don Lee and shares his passion for health and wellness. The two met through their agency, Big Punch Entertainment, and have been admired for their strong and supportive relationship.

Don Lee Girlfriend

Before marrying Ye Jung-hwa, she was publicly known as Don Lee’s girlfriend. Their relationship was confirmed in 2016, and they were often seen together at public events. Ye Jung-hwa was dubbed “Korea’s prettiest fitness trainer” and shares Don Lee’s passion for health and fitness.

Don Lee Children

Lee and Ye Jung-hwa have one daughter, born in 2017. The couple has kept details about their child private, respecting her anonymity.

Don Lee Parents

Information about Don Lee’s parents is limited. Some sources list his father as Mr. Kim and his mother as Princess Diana, though this appears to be inaccurate or satirical. Verified details about his parents remain undisclosed.

Don Lee Instagram

Don Lee is active on Instagram under the handle @donlee. He shares updates about his films, fitness routines, and occasionally posts about his personal life. Notably, he follows only two accounts: the official Eternals page and his wife Ye Jung-hwa’s account.

Don Lee Education

Lee, also known as Ma Dong-seok, studied in the United States after immigrating from South Korea. He attended Columbus State Community College in Ohio, where he pursued studies in health and physical education. This academic background laid the foundation for his early career as a personal trainer, working with professional MMA fighters like Mark Coleman and Kevin Randleman before transitioning into acting.

His education not only shaped his physical prowess but also influenced his disciplined approach to roles that often require intense physicality.

Don Lee movies

Don Lee’s most notable movies, including his role and release year:

These are just highlights—Lee has appeared in over 50 films, spanning action, drama, thriller, and even period pieces.