From Green Juice Deliveries to Global Fame: The Heartwarming Rise of Lee Jung-eun
Before winning international acclaim,
Lee Jung-eun
was known in Seoul as the persistent green juice delivery woman who rang countless doorbells. After graduating from Hanyang University's theater department in 1991, her path to stardom was far from direct. For nearly 30 years, she acted mostly in minor or backstage roles, barely making a living. At one point, her acting income was just about ₩20,000 a year, approximately ₹1,300. To support herself, Lee took on various odd jobs such as market cashier, cleaner, and green juice salesperson. Far from embarrassed, she regarded every job as a "secret acting class," turning daily life experiences into powerful tools for her craft. That famous bell-pressing scene in '
Parasite
' was no act-Lee had pressed thousands of doorbells in real life.
The Long Road to Stardom: Breaking Through at 40
Lee debuted in 1991 with summer theater but remained largely unknown for decades. A rough early film experience even caused her camera fear. She focused on coaching young actors, including famous singer Lee Hyori, quietly refining her skills. In her 40s, Lee finally gained visibility through warm, often comic
supporting roles in dramas
like 'Oh My Ghost' and 'Mr. Sunshine.' The turning point came in 2019, with her remarkable portrayal of Moon-gwang, the housekeeper in 'Parasite.' Her subtle yet powerful presence captivated audiences worldwide, earning her prestigious awards both in Korea and internationally.
Life's Struggles Fuel Stunning Performances
Lee credits her years of hard labor and diverse jobs for lending depth and authenticity to her roles. Told she didn't look or sound like a traditional actress, she instead embraced her unique voice, wrinkles, and quirks, creating characters that deeply resonate with audiences. Whether playing a grieving mother or a fierce detective, Lee's performances reflect real life's complexity and emotion.
A Grounded Star with Big Dreams
Despite fame, Lee remains refreshingly down-to-earth. She rides the subway, laughs at her laugh lines, and values good work and relationships over glamour. Her story is a universal message about resilience and embracing every experience on the road to success.
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