From Rising Star to Soccer Devotee: Lee Ji-hoon’s Dual Life on and off the Field

Korean actor Lee Ji-hoon, known for his steady presence in dramas and his latest stint in the reality show ‘뭉쳐야 찬다 4’, recently reunited with bnt magazine for a dazzling photo shoot. This marks his second collaboration with the fashion outlet, the first taking place 12 years ago when he had just debuted.

Now in his twelfth year as an actor, Lee has switched modes seamlessly—from footballer to fashion icon—showcasing his versatility both on set and on the soccer field. His current appearance on JTBC (Joongang Tongyang Broadcasting Company)’s reality series has reignited his lifelong passion for soccer, even dedicating his free time to train and play competitively once again.

‘I used to be a soccer player until middle school, and came back to the game because of the show,’ he shares. ‘Now I play in a former pro team, and it feels like my soccer journey is getting one last spark.’

He laughed recalling watching FC Seoul matches frequently, thanks to its proximity to his home. ‘With Lingard joining, more fans are attending the games. There’s great energy in the stadium,’ he adds proudly.

Lee fondly spoke of his camaraderie with teammates on the show, particularly mentioning players like Sugyeom and Seungwoo. Their chemistry on teamwork and constant communication are part of his mission to evolve the team dynamically.

He also described working with Kim Nam-il, the team’s coach, as heartwarming. ‘He seemed intimidating at first, but turned out to be a kind and thoughtful person,’ said Lee, adding that Kim’s unassuming demeanor masks deep empathy.

Exploring his main profession, Lee reminisced over projects like ‘로얄로더’ and ‘백수 아파트’, where his roles unexpectedly grew in significance. However, one that particularly stayed with him was as Min Woo-won in the period drama ‘Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung’. ‘It was filmed in the scorching summer heat, but emotionally fulfilling,’ he recalled.

His career launched via ‘School 2013’, after beating 3,000 competitors. Curiously, it was a heartfelt story about his first love written in a self-introduction letter that got him cast.

Interestingly, acting wasn’t his lifelong dream. After briefly attending a physical education college and serving in the military, he watched a musical starring Min Young-gi titled ‘Yi Sun-sin’ during a short break. That experience inspired him to pursue acting. He began studying performances passionately, even practicing monologues alone during military service.

Speaking with humility, Lee said, ‘I think I have a plain face, which makes it easier to take on diverse roles. I want to challenge myself with a purely evil character like Joker, not one with a tragic backstory.’

Lee concluded by expressing his ambitions: winning on ‘뭉쳐야 찬다’ without injuries and taking on a villainous role in a compelling drama by year-end.