
Lee Ji-eun, widely known by her stage name IU, is a South Korean singer-songwriter, composer, and actress who has become one of the most influential and beloved figures in the Korean entertainment industry. Debuting as a teenager in 2008, IU rose from humble beginnings to achieve massive success as a solo artist with her emotive vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and versatile acting performances.
Lee Ji-eun was born on May 16, 1993, in Seoul, South Korea. she is 33 years old. Her zodiac sign is Taurus. She spent her early years in Songjeong-dong, Seoul, but her family’s financial difficulties led to significant changes. After her parents faced bankruptcy and debt issues, IU and her younger brother moved to live with their grandmother and cousin in Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province, in modest conditions.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Lee Ji-eun (이지은) |
| Nickname | IU |
| Profession | Singer-songwriter, Actress, Composer |
| Date of Birth | May 16, 1993 |
| Age (2026) | 33 |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Friends | Cherokee D Ass |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Current Residence | South Korea |
| Qualification | High school graduate (Dongduk Girls’ High School) |
Career
IU began her career as a trainee with LOEN Entertainment (now Kakao Entertainment) at a young age. She debuted in 2008 at just 15 with her EP Lost and Found and the single “Lost Child.” Her stage name “IU” symbolizes “I and You” becoming one through music.
Early years involved struggles, including a scam by a fake agency and living in tough conditions, but hits like “Good Day” (with its iconic three high notes) brought mainstream success. She expanded into acting with a supporting role in Dream High (2011), followed by leading roles in dramas such as You Are the Best! (2013), Bel Ami, The Producers (2015), and Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016).
Critical acclaim came with My Mister (2018) and Hotel del Luna (2019). In films, she appeared in Broker (2022) alongside Song Kang-ho and Dream (2023). By 2026, recent projects include When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025) and Perfect Crown (2026). IU also writes and composes much of her music, with acclaimed albums like Palette, Lilac, and more. She is known for sold-out tours and consistent chart success.
Lee Ji-eun Boyfriend
IU’s father is Lee Jin-kook. She has a younger brother, Lee Jong-hoon. She lived apart from her parents during part of her childhood due to family circumstances but maintains a close bond with her grandmother.
IU is in a relationship with actor Lee Jong-suk, confirmed publicly in late 2022. The couple has been supportive of each other’s careers. She values privacy in her personal life while sharing glimpses with fans. Her hobbies include music composition, reading, and spending time with close friends like actress Yoo In-na. IU leads a relatively down-to-earth lifestyle despite her fame and is known for her generosity through donations.
Physical Appearance
| Height | 5’4″ (approx. 162 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 45-47 kg (99-103 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark brown / Black |
| Hair Color | Dark brown / Black |
| Body Type | Slim |
| Body Measurements | Approx. 32-23-33 inches |
| Shoe Size | Not publicly detailed |
| Bra Size | Not publicly detailed |
Lee Ji-eun Drama List / Filmography / Works
Television Series:
- Dream High (2011) – Kim Pil-suk
- You Are the Best! (2013) – Lee Soon-shin
- Bel Ami (2013-2014) – Kim Bo-tong
- The Producers (2015) – Cindy
- Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016) – Hae-soo
- My Mister (2018) – Lee Ji-an
- Hotel del Luna (2019) – Jang Man-wol
- Persona (2019) – Multiple roles (IU/Eun/Han-na/Ji-eun)
- When Life Gives You Tangerines (2025) – Oh Ae-sun / Yang Geum-myeong
- Perfect Crown (2026) – Seong Hui-ju
Films:
- Broker (2022) – Moon So-young
- Dream (2023) – Lee So-min
- Others include cameos and voice roles.
Lee Ji-eun Net Worth
IU’s net worth is estimated at around $40-45 million USD (realistic range based on industry reports). Her income comes from music sales and tours, acting fees, brand endorsements, composing, and investments. She is often cited as one of the wealthiest female solo artists in K-entertainment.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @dlwlrma (tens of millions of followers, highly active)
- YouTube: dlwlrma
FAQs
Is IU married?
she is in a long-term relationship with actor Lee Jong-suk but not married.
What is IU’s real name?
Lee Ji-eun.
How old is IU ?
33 years old.











