Who is IU?
IU, whose real name is Lee Ji-eun, is a South Korean singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. She is one of the most successful solo artists in the K-pop industry and has earned widespread acclaim for her musical versatility, emotional depth, and acting talent. Known as “Korea’s little sister,” IU has built a career that spans music, television, and film, becoming a beloved figure both domestically and internationally.
IU Biography
Born on May 16, 1993, in Songjeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea, IU faced financial hardships during her childhood. Her family moved to Uijeongbu in Gyeonggi Province, where she lived with her grandmother and younger brother in a small studio apartment. Despite these challenges, IU discovered her passion for music in middle school and began auditioning for entertainment agencies. After multiple rejections and scams, she was signed by LOEN Entertainment (now Kakao Entertainment) in 2007 and debuted at age 15 with the EP Lost and Found.
Her breakthrough came in 2010 with the hit single “Good Day,” which topped the Gaon Digital Chart for five consecutive weeks and was later named Billboard’s best K-pop song of the 2010s. IU has since released five studio albums and nine EPs, with over 30 number-one singles in South Korea. She also gained recognition as an actress in dramas like Dream High, My Mister, and Hotel Del Luna, and films like Broker (2022), which competed at Cannes.
IU Real Name
IU’s real name is Lee Ji-eun (이지은).
IU Boyfriend
IU is currently in a relationship with South Korean actor Lee Jong Suk. The couple publicly confirmed their romance on December 31, 2022, after years of friendship that began when they co-hosted the music show Inkigayo in their teens. Their relationship blossomed quietly over time, and both IU’s agency (EDAM Entertainment) and Lee Jong Suk’s agency (HighZium Studio) confirmed they were dating seriously.
As of 2025, IU and Lee Jong Suk are still together. In a recent interview, IU affectionately referred to him as her boyfriend, noting that he’s been very busy but remains a supportive presence in her life. Fans continue to admire their relationship, which has been described as a modern-day fairytale romance.
Lee Ji-eun Net Worth
As of 2025, IU’s estimated net worth ranges between $40–45 million. Her income stems from album sales, acting roles, endorsements with luxury brands like Gucci, sold-out concerts, and real estate investments. She is one of the wealthiest and most influential celebrities in South Korea.
Lee Ji-eun Height
IU stands at 162 cm (5 ft 3¾ in).
Lee Ji-eun Husband
IU is not married, but she is in a public relationship with actor Lee Jong-suk. The couple confirmed their relationship in 2022 after years of friendship and collaboration.
Lee Ji-eun Parents
IU’s parents are Lee Jin-kook and Kim Mi-sam. Due to financial difficulties, IU and her brother lived with their grandmother during their early years.
Lee Ji-eun Siblings
IU has a younger brother named Lee Jong-hoon. He has kept a low profile and studied abroad to avoid the spotlight associated with his sister’s fame.
Lee Ji-eun Ethnicity
IU is of Korean ethnicity, and she is a member of the Jeonju Yi clan, which historically includes members of Korea’s former royal family.
Lee Ji-eun Family
IU grew up in a modest household with her parents and younger brother. During her childhood, she lived with her grandmother and cousin due to her family’s financial struggles. Her grandmother played a significant role in raising her and supporting her early ambitions.
Lee Ji-eun Children
IU does not have any children.
Lee Ji-eun Education
IU attended several schools during her childhood, including Seoul Guui Elementary School, Hanam Cheongyeon Elementary, and Dongduk Girls’ High School, from which she graduated in 2012. She chose not to pursue college, citing her busy schedule and lack of interest in academic studies.
Lee Ji-eun Body Measurements
IU’s body measurements are approximately 32-23-33 inches (81-58.5-84 cm). She maintains a slim figure and has spoken openly about her disciplined diet and fitness routines.
Lee Ji-eun Age
As of 2025, IU is 32 years old, having been born on May 16, 1993.
Lee Ji-eun Nationality
Lee Ji-eun, professionally known as IU, is South Korean. She was born in Seoul, South Korea, and has built her entire career within the Korean entertainment industry, becoming one of the most influential solo artists and actresses in the country.
Lee Ji-eun Movies
| Year | Movie Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | A Turtle’s Tale 2: Sammy’s Escape | Ella (voice) | Korean dub |
| 2017 | Real | Awards ceremony guide | Cameo |
| 2019 | Shades of the Heart | Mi-young | Lead role |
| 2022 | Broker | Moon So-young | Lead role, Cannes Film Festival |
| 2022 | IU Documentary: Pieces: 29th Winter | Herself | Documentary |
| 2023 | Dream | Lee So-min | Lead role |
| 2023 | SUGA: Road to D-DAY | Herself | Guest appearance |
| 2025 | IU Concert: The Winning | Herself | Concert film |