‘10-million-ticket’ star Lee Do-hyun completes military service

Lee Do-hyun, 30, dubbed a “10-million-ticket” actor for his breakout film success, has completed his mandatory military service and officially returned to civilian life on Tuesday.

The actor enlisted on Aug. 14, 2023, and served for about 21 months in the Republic of Korea Air Force band following his basic training.

Despite being in the military, Lee remained highly visible in the entertainment world. His big-screen debut, “Exhuma,” drew more than 11.9 million viewers, earning him his nickname.

The film’s massive popularity also helped contribute to his win for Best New Actor in the film category at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards. At the time, he told fans, “I’ll return as actor Lee Do-hyun in May next year.”

In addition to “Exhuma,” Lee appeared in multiple streaming projects during his service period, including the Tving original "Death's Game," and Netflix’s "Sweet Home" Season Three, allowing fans to see the range of his talent even while he was away from public life.

Since his 2017 debut in tvN’s "Prison Playbook," Lee has steadily built an impressive filmography with standout roles in "The Glory" and "The Good Bad Mother." According to his agency, Yuehua Entertainment Korea, Lee is already receiving offers for a wide range of drama and film roles, along with strong interest in advertising and editorial work.

While on leave during his military service, Lee attended an event in uniform and thanked actress Lim Ji-yeon during his acceptance speech.

The two began dating before Lee’s enlistment and remain in a relationship.

As he steps back into the spotlight, fans and the industry alike are watching closely to see what Lee Do-hyun will do next.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.