IU

Early Life and Background

Lee Ji-eun, professionally known as IU (아이유), was born on May 16, 1993, in Songjeong-dong, Seoul, South Korea. Her stage name, IU, symbolizes the phrase "I and You," reflecting her intention to connect with audiences through music. During her early years, IU faced financial hardships, leading her and her younger brother to live with their grandmother in Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi Province. Despite these challenges, she developed a passion for music and performance, participating in school talent shows and attending acting classes. After numerous auditions and setbacks, IU signed with LOEN Entertainment (now Kakao Entertainment) in 2007, marking the beginning of her journey in the entertainment industry .

Musical Career

Debut and Breakthrough

IU debuted in 2008 at the age of 15 with her extended play (EP) "Lost and Found," featuring the lead single "Lost Child." Although her initial releases received modest attention, her 2010 single "Good Day" from the album "Real" catapulted her to national fame. The song topped South Korea's Gaon Digital Chart for five consecutive weeks and was later ranked number one on Billboard's "100 Greatest K-Pop Songs of the 2010s" .

Artistic Evolution and Achievements

Over the years, IU has showcased her versatility by exploring various musical genres, including K-pop, R&B, and soul. She has released multiple successful albums and EPs, such as "Last Fantasy" (2011), "Modern Times" (2013), "Palette" (2017), and "Lilac" (2021). Notably, IU has taken on significant roles in the production of her music, serving as a lyricist and producer, which has allowed her to express her artistic vision authentically.

Her collaborations with other artists have also garnered attention. In 2020, she released the single "Eight," produced by and featuring Suga of BTS, which became her first song to reach number one on Billboard's World Digital Song Sales chart .

IU holds the record for the most number-one songs in South Korea, with thirty-one chart-topping singles. She has also achieved the distinction of being the first Korean female soloist to perform at Seoul's Olympic Gymnastics Arena during her 2018 "dlwlrma" concert tour and held a solo concert at Seoul Olympic Stadium in 2022 .

Acting Career

In addition to her music career, IU has established herself as a talented actress. She made her acting debut in the teen drama "Dream High" (2011) and has since taken on various roles in television and film. Her performances in "My Mister" (2018) and "When Life Gives You Tangerines" (2025) received critical acclaim, with the former earning her a nomination for Best Actress in Television at the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards .

IU's film debut came with the 2022 movie "Broker," directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, where she portrayed a single mother. Her performance was praised for its depth and emotional resonance, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile actress .

Philanthropy and Influence

Beyond her artistic endeavors, IU is known for her philanthropic efforts. She has made significant donations to various causes, including supporting young single-parent families and individuals with hearing impairments. In 2021, she donated a total of 100 million Korean won to organizations such as "Linker" and "The Snail of Love" under the name "IU愛나," combining her stage name and fan club name .

IU's influence extends beyond music and acting. She has been recognized in Forbes Korea's annual Power Celebrity list multiple times, attaining the top position in 2025. Rolling Stone named her the 135th greatest singer of all time in 2023, and she has been referred to as the "Queen of K-pop" by various media outlets .

Conclusion

IU's journey from a young girl facing financial hardships to becoming one of South Korea's most beloved and influential artists is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication. Her contributions to music, acting, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on the Korean entertainment industry and continue to inspire fans worldwide.