New Delhi: Lee Ji Eun better known as IU, is a beloved star in Hallyu industry with EDAM Entertainment. Her work as an actress and singer has been immensely successful, winning her fans all throughout. She got her stage name from the words “I and You,” which represent the idea that music has the power to unite people.
The genuine and warm nature of IU have made her famous as Korea’s darling. She was recognized by Billboard as the leading K-pop Hot 100 artist in 2014, with the most number-one hits and weeks at the top of the list.
In addition to his musical career, IU has dabbled in acting. She made her acting debut in 2011’s Dream High drama. Her fans’ were excited for her first feature, Broker, which she screened at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival.
In honor of the multifaceted star’s 31st birthday (May 17, 1993), let’s recollect about some of her most cherished Korean dramas.
1. Hotel del Luna (2019)
In Seoul, the ancient Hotel del Luna stands as a mysterious hotel, overseen by Jang Man Wol, a thousand-years-old CEO bound by a divine decree. Cursed to stay until she finds love and releases her resentment, Man Wol is trapped in a cycle of bitterness. Goo Chan Sung, a young manager, enters the scene, tasked with bringing financial order to the chaos. As Chan Sung delves into the hotel’s secrets, he discovers a path to redemption for both himself and Man Wol, to overcome their pasts.
2. Persona (2019)
This thriller drama has four distinct stories directed by different filmmakers featuring four different roles of IU. In Love Set, directed by Lee Kyung Mi, IU engages in a high-stakes tennis match against Doo Na, with both women vying for victory. Collector, helmed by Im Pil Sung, explores the complex dynamic between Eun and a man who becomes obsessed with her. Kiss Burn, directed by Jeon Go Woon, follows the tale of revenge as two schoolgirls, Han Na and Hye Bok, seek retribution against Hye Bok’s oppressive father. Walking at Night, directed by Kim Jong Kwan, is a portrayal of two former lovers who reunite in a dream, reflecting on their lost love and unspoken feelings.
3. My Mister (2018)
Park Dong Hoon, a middle-aged engineer, faces marital strife when he discovers his wife’s affair with his boss. Meanwhile, he grapples with supporting his unemployed brothers, Sang Hoon and Gi Hoon. When Dong Hoon receives a bribe and is caught by part-time worker Lee Ji An, who is struggling with debt and caring for her sick grandmother, their lives intertwine.
4. Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo (2016)
During a solar eclipse, Go Ha Jin is mysteriously transported back to the Goryeo Dynasty, inhabiting the body of Hae Soo, a young woman living with the 8th Prince Wang Wook. As she navigates palace life, she befriends the princes and forms a bond with the outcast 4th Prince, Wang So. Despite her efforts to avoid involvement in royal power struggles, she becomes entangled in the princes’ affections and the fight for the throne.
5. The Producers (2015)
Set in a broadcasting house, the drama follows the lives of industry professionals. Baek Sung Chan, a former prosecutor turned rookie PD, pursues his passion for broadcasting, driven by love. Meanwhile, top celebrity singer Cindy, known for her icy demeanour, guards herself against betrayal and forms unlikely connections in the cutthroat entertainment world. As friendships form, the drama delves into themes of friendship, family, fame, and the harsh realities of the industry.
6. Dream High (2011)
Dream High follows six students at Kirin Art High School striving to become music stars. Go Hye Mi sacrifices her dream to pay off her father’s debt by enrolling in Kirin, asked Song Sam Dong and Jin Guk to join her. Her former sidekick, Yoon Baek Hee, becomes her rival after betrayal during auditions. As they navigate friendships and rivalries, they pursue their dreams in the competitive music industry.