7 Fun Facts About CNBLUE's Lee Jong Hyun
On May 15, Lee Jong Hyun will return to Korean drama in the supernatural teen series, "Orange Marmalade." He has captured the attention of variety show fans with his recurring roles on "We Got Married" and "Fluttering India" but "Orange Marmalade" has the potential to elevate him into Hallyu stardom.
He has set hearts a flutter as Han Shi Hoo, a sulky vampire whose level of angst could rival Edward Cullen of "Twilight."
May 15 is also the birth date of the CNBLUE lead guitarist and singer-songwriter, who was born in 1990. He is the second oldest member of CNBLUE, following Jung Yong Hwa.
"Orange Marmalade" premieres on May 15 at 9:30 p.m. KST. Here are 7 fun facts about Lee Jong Hyun to check out before watching him take on the role of a teenage vampire.
1. Lee Jong Hyun is a Busan native who relocated to Japan as a child, before returning to Korea.
He was born in Busan on May 15, 1990. His briefly relocated to Japan, but he returned to Busan to complete elementary and intermediate school.
2. He is one of the first ulzzangs, following CNBLUE's Jung Yong Hwa.
Lee Jong Hyun is considered a second generation ulzzang, a Korean term which roughly translates to most beautiful or handsome. He was featured in the publication "Best Nine Ulzzang," an honor which was previously held by his band mate, Jung Yong Hwa. His arresting gaze and unique facial features will also lend themselves to his portrayal of a vampire in "Orange Marmalade."
3. His acting debut was in the 2010 film "Acoustic" which also starred Kang Min Hyuk of CNBLUE and former 2AM member Seulong.
The 2010 film, "Acoustic," marked his acting debut. The film was divided into 3 segments which examined the lives of young bohemians living in Hongdae. He portrayed Kim Seong Won, a vocalist who is forced to sell his prized guitar during a moment of desperation.
4. His K-Drama debut was in "A Gentleman's Dignity," opposite Kim Woo Bin, Kim Ha Neul and Jang Dong Gun.
His role in the 2012 series, "A Gentleman's Dignity," marked his debut in Korean drama. He portrayed Collin Black, an angst ridden high school student, who forms reluctant friendships with his classmates. Kim Woo Bin was featured in a supporting role as Kim Dong Hyub.
5. He learned to play the guitar after watching a performance delivered by legendary singer-songwriter Eric Clapton.
6. He enjoys spending time with his adorable dogs.
While some stars use Instagram to display their favorite clothes or vacation spots, he follows in the footsteps of artists like Park Shin Hye and provides pet updates. He has even posted couples photos with his sweet dog, Shiro.
7. Lee Jong Hyun is the second member of CNBLUE to appear on "We Got Married."
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About the writer: Adrienne Stanley is a contributing writer for Kpopstarz, KDramastars, MTV Iggy and CJ Entertainment's KCON blog. Her passions include a love of K-pop and Asian drama. When she is not writing she is hanging out on Twitter (@retrogirladdy).
