Han Ji-hye
Han Ji-hye (born Lee Ji-hye on June 29, 1984, in Gwangju, South Korea) is a South Korean actress who began her career as a model in 2001 before transitioning to acting with her debut in the 2002 drama Great Luck Family. She gained prominence through supporting and leading roles in romantic and family-oriented dramas, including Summer Scent (2003), where she played Park Jung-ah, and Sweet 18 (2004), earning her the Best New Actress award at the 40th Baeksang Arts Awards. Her breakthrough came with the lead role in the historical epic East of Eden (2008), for which she received the Excellence Award at the MBC Drama Awards, solidifying her status as a versatile performer in long-running serials. Notable later works include May Queen (2012), I Summon You, Gold! (2013), Marry Me Now (2018), and a special appearance in Buried Hearts (2025), where she portrayed strong-willed protagonists in family sagas, earning an Excellence Award at the 2018 KBS Drama Awards. [1] She has also appeared in films such as My Boyfriend Is Type-B (2005) and Blades of Blood (2010), though her primary acclaim stems from television. In her personal life, Han Ji-hye married a prosecutor six years her senior in 2010 and welcomed their first child, a daughter, on June 23, 2021, after announcing her pregnancy the previous December. The family resides on Jeju Island, where she has balanced her career with motherhood, occasionally sharing insights into her experiences as a parent. She adopted her stage name early in her career to distinguish herself from another actress with the same real name.Early life
Childhood
Han Ji-hye was born Lee Ji-hye on June 29, 1984, in Damyang-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea.[2][3] She later adopted the stage name Han Ji-hye upon entering the entertainment industry to avoid confusion with the established singer and actress Lee Ji-hye (born 1980), a member of the group S#arp.[4] Public details about her family background remain limited due to Han Ji-hye's emphasis on privacy. She grew up in a typical South Korean household during her formative years in Gwangju.[5] As a teenager, Han Ji-hye developed an interest in modeling and the performing arts, which led to her professional debut as a model in 2001 at the age of 17.[4]Education
Han Ji-hye, who showed an early interest in the arts during her childhood, pursued formal education in the field after completing her secondary schooling at Gyeongshin Girls' High School in Gwangju. She enrolled at Sejong University in Seoul, majoring in Film Arts within the Department of Film Arts.[6] The Film Arts program at Sejong University emphasizes a systematic curriculum that includes fundamentals of stage acting, script analysis, and performance training to prepare students for careers in film and performing arts.[7] During her university years, Han balanced her academic commitments with her burgeoning career, taking on initial modeling assignments that started in high school and continued into the early 2000s.[8][6] Han completed her bachelor's degree in Film Arts from Sejong University in 2010, providing her with a solid academic foundation that complemented her practical experiences in the entertainment industry.[8][9]Acting career
Debut and early roles (2001–2007)
Han Ji-hye entered the entertainment industry as a model in 2001 after winning the Dodo Makeup Award at the Korea Supermodel Contest, which provided her initial exposure and opportunities in advertising and fashion. This debut marked her transition from a high school student in Gwangju to a public figure, leveraging her poised appearance and height to secure modeling gigs that built her confidence for future endeavors. Her background in film arts at Sejong University, where she later enrolled, complemented this early phase by fostering an interest in performance. By 2003, Han shifted to acting, making her professional debut in the supporting role of a college student in the romance drama Summer Scent, part of the KBS2 mini-series franchise, where she portrayed a character entangled in youthful relationships.[4] This role was followed by minor appearances in other television projects, allowing her to hone her skills amid the competitive landscape of South Korean broadcasting. Her first leading role came in 2004 with the KBS2 drama Sweet 18, where she played a high school girl navigating family dynamics and first love, earning her recognition as an emerging talent in romantic genres.[10] In 2005, Han made her film debut in the romantic comedy My Boyfriend Is Type B, starring opposite Lee Dong-gun as a naive university student whose beliefs in destiny clash with her partner's unpredictable personality, drawing from popular blood type personality theories.[11] The movie's lighthearted tone highlighted her charm in comedic situations, though it also reinforced her image in feel-good romances. During this period, she faced challenges with typecasting, often being offered similar sweet and innocent characters that limited her range, a common hurdle for young actresses building their careers. Early on, she was affiliated with smaller management firms before establishing more stable representation, navigating the industry's demands with persistence.Breakthrough years (2008–2011)
Han Ji-hye's breakthrough came with her portrayal of Kim Ji-hyun in the 2008 MBC epic drama East of Eden, a 50-episode series set against the backdrop of Korea's turbulent history from the 1950s to the 1970s. As the resilient wife of a coal miner, her character navigated themes of love, loss, and social upheaval, earning widespread acclaim for demonstrating maturity in her acting after earlier supporting roles. The drama achieved significant popularity, drawing 25.6 percent viewer ratings in November 2008 according to TNm data, solidifying her status as a leading actress.[12] Her performance in East of Eden led to recognition at major awards, including a nomination for Best Actress (TV) at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards in 2009, highlighting her transition from model to acclaimed performer. This success boosted her visibility, resulting in endorsement opportunities such as her appointment as PR ambassador for the "Design Korea 2009" event, where she promoted innovative Korean design initiatives. Her elegant and poised public image during this period aligned with her on-screen persona, attracting media attention and commercial deals in fashion and beauty sectors.[13][14] In 2010, Han expanded into film with the role of Baek-ji, a determined concubine seeking revenge amid political intrigue, in the historical action drama Blades of Blood directed by Lee Joon-ik. The film, set during the late Joseon Dynasty, featured intense swordplay and themes of rebellion, providing Han an opportunity to showcase versatility in a high-stakes ensemble cast alongside Hwang Jung-min and Cha Seung-won. Though the movie received mixed reviews for its pacing, Han's character added emotional depth to the narrative of class struggle and betrayal.[15][16] The year 2011 marked further milestones with her lead role as the intelligent and compassionate Dong-nyeo in the MBC historical drama The Duo, a tale of switched identities and forbidden romance in the Joseon era. The series received solid ratings, averaging 13.0% nationwide (TNmS), with a peak of 16.3%. Additionally, she starred as the visually impaired Kim Ha-yeon in the SBS Chuseok special The Great Gift, a heartfelt story emphasizing family bonds and resilience that resonated with audiences during the holiday season. Throughout this period, Han balanced demanding schedules across television, film, and promotional work, reflecting on the personal growth derived from immersing in multifaceted roles.Later career (2012–present)
Following her marriage in 2010, Han Ji-hye took a brief hiatus from acting to focus on personal matters, marking her return to television in 2012 with the lead role of Chun Hae-joo in the MBC drama May Queen, a melodrama centered on ambition and romance in Korea's shipbuilding industry.[17] This comeback role showcased her versatility in portraying a determined woman navigating love and career challenges, earning her recognition at the 2012 MBC Drama Awards for Top Excellence in a Serial Drama.[6] After May Queen, she starred as Jung Mong-hee in the 2013 MBC drama I Summon You, Gold!, a story of family secrets and redemption in the jewelry industry, for which she won the Top Excellence Award at the MBC Drama Awards. In 2014, Han took on the role of Moon Soo-in, a resilient woman seeking justice after wrongful imprisonment, in the MBC series The Legendary Witch, which explored themes of friendship and revenge among female leads.[18] In 2018, she led the KBS2 family drama Marry Me Now as Park Yoo-ha, earning the Excellence Award at the 2018 KBS Drama Awards. By 2019, she took on the central role of Eun Dong-joo in Golden Garden, an MBC weekend drama about identity theft and redemption, highlighting her ability to anchor ensemble stories of personal growth and family ties.[19] In 2023, she made a supporting appearance as Eun-sook in the Disney+ series Han River Police, a procedural drama involving environmental crimes along Seoul's waterways.[20] Represented by Awesome ENT since the early 2010s, Han has adapted her selections to post-maternity roles following the 2021 birth of her daughter, prioritizing projects that balance her family life with acting commitments in domestic dramas.[21] In 2025, she expanded her presence with a supporting role as Yang Mi-suk, a middle school classmate, in the TV Chosun comedy No Next Life alongside Kim Hee-sun.[22] She also portrayed Sister Agnes in the SBS mystery thriller Buried Hearts, a cameo as a Korean language teacher in episode 2 of the TVING school drama I Am a Running Mate, emphasizing nuanced, supportive figures in ensemble casts.[6][23] This phase underscores her sustained relevance through selective, impactful appearances that align with her personal priorities.[24]Personal life
Marriage
Han Ji-hye married non-celebrity public prosecutor Jung Hyeok-jun on September 21, 2010, in a private ceremony in Hawaii.[25] The couple, who had been dating for nearly two years at the time, met through an introduction at a church gathering in January 2009.[25] Jung, born in 1978 and six years her senior, works as a prosecutor, a profession that has required frequent relocations due to job assignments.[26] The wedding was intentionally low-key, limited to family members and close colleagues, with no official photos released to the public.[27] This approach underscored the couple's commitment to privacy, particularly regarding Jung's identity and professional life, which they have consistently shielded from media scrutiny despite occasional reports.[28] Post-marriage, the couple relocated to Jeju Island around 2020 following Jung's transfer to the Jeju District Prosecutors' Office, embracing a more serene lifestyle on the island.[26][29] This move allowed them to prioritize a low-profile existence, adapting to periodic relocations every few years as part of his career demands.[26]Family
In December 2020, Han Ji-hye announced her first pregnancy after 10 years of marriage, sharing the joyful news via Instagram on the last day of the year.[30][31] She welcomed her daughter, Jung Yoon-seul, on June 23, 2021, at a hospital in Seoul; the baby was born healthy, weighing 3.19 kg.[32][33][34] Han Ji-hye has openly shared moments of motherhood on Instagram, expressing delight in her daughter's growth while prioritizing the child's privacy by limiting disclosures.[35] In August 2024, she posted photos of a heartwarming ice cream date with Yoon-seul, highlighting their close bond.[36] In 2025, she continued sharing glimpses of family life, including photos from her 41st birthday celebration in June and a family outing in October, while maintaining her daughter's privacy.[37][38] The couple relocated to Jeju Island around 2020 following Jung's transfer, where Han Ji-hye has emphasized work-life balance, cherishing time with her daughter amid her selective professional commitments.[29][26] Her husband has provided strong support in their family life, contributing to this harmonious dynamic.[39] As of October 2025, the couple has no additional children.[38]Other ventures
Music
In 2010, Han Ji-hye made her musical debut as a singer by contributing to the original soundtrack for the film Blades of Blood (titled Gureum Beoseonan Dalcheoreom in Korean, or Like the Moon Escaping from the Clouds), in which she starred as the courtesan Baek-gye.[40] The single, titled "Sangsa-mong" (translated as "Dream of Longing for You"), was a sijo-style ballad based on a poem by the historical figure Hwang Jini, composed and arranged by Kim Soo-chul to suit her character's emotional depth.[40] Released digitally on April 26, 2010, ahead of the film's theatrical debut, the track highlighted Han's vocal training in traditional Korean singing forms, marking a surprise extension of her on-screen persona as a graceful and introspective figure. The release received limited promotion, primarily tied to the movie's marketing efforts, such as a Melon platform event offering signed film scripts to downloaders, reflecting Han's primary focus on her acting career at the time.[40] Although plans for a full-length album were announced following the film's release, no further solo music projects materialized from Han. Her musical output did not extend beyond this single, with no additional personal albums released.[41]Writing
In June 2010, Han Ji-hye published her first book, an autobiographical essay collection titled My Fair Lady, through the publisher Nangman Books.[42] The work chronicles her experiences over approximately 200 days as she stepped away from her celebrity persona to embrace the life of an ordinary 27-year-old single woman, documenting various practical classes and hobbies she pursued to enrich her routine.[43] These include shoe design, tea ceremonies, ceramics, DIY furniture making, fabric arts, cooking, horse riding, wine tasting, and flower arranging, alongside reflections on daily life challenges and personal growth.[44] The essays delve into her introspections as a young actress, offering insights into beauty tips for everyday self-care, the nuances of her acting career, and broader questions about balancing professional ambitions with personal fulfillment.[45] Han Ji-hye aimed for the book to serve as a relatable reference for readers facing similar dilemmas, blending candid anecdotes with motivational advice drawn from her off-screen pursuits.[46] Upon release on June 1, 2010, My Fair Lady quickly gained popularity in Korea, selling 10,000 copies within the first month and ascending to bestseller lists.[47] Promotion included a launch event on June 10 at O'Sulloc Teahouse in Seoul's Insadong district, as well as media coverage through television appearances, such as a segment on MBC's Section TV Entertainment Communication featuring her press conference.[48] This period also saw her musical debut with a single for the film Blades of Blood earlier that year, further highlighting her multifaceted career transition.[40] As of 2025, Han Ji-hye has not published any subsequent books.[49]Fashion
In 2009, Han Ji-hye pursued her interest in fashion design by traveling to Florence, Italy, for a short course on shoemaking and design, spanning mid-March to mid-April.[50] This hands-on training, which she described as challenging yet inspiring due to the craftsmanship she observed, served as preparation for her entry into the shoe industry.[51] Building on this experience, Han Ji-hye collaborated with the established Korean shoe brand Jinny Kim to launch her own line, titled "H by Jinny Kim," targeting stylish women in their 20s and 30s.[50] The collection debuted as part of Jinny Kim's Fall/Winter 2009 lineup in late 2009, featuring elegant and feminine high heels inspired by her personal style and Italian influences.[52] Key designs incorporated three concepts—Bohemian Chic, Gran Duomo, and Miss Artist—emphasizing sophisticated, wearable femininity with elements like delicate detailing and comfortable arches.[51] The development and creative process behind the line were documented in the television program Han Ji-hye: Shoes! My Dream!, which aired on O'live TV starting with Part 1 on May 16, 2009.[51] In the series, Han Ji-hye actively served as the lead designer, overseeing sketches, material selection, and prototyping while modeling the finished products.[52] The "H by Jinny Kim" heels became available for purchase in major Seoul department stores and surrounding metropolitan areas during the 2009–2010 season, marking Han Ji-hye's direct involvement in a commercial fashion venture.[53] As of 2025, the line has not seen further expansions or new collections under her design leadership.[52]Filmography
Film
Han Ji-hye began her film career with minor supporting roles before transitioning to leading parts in romantic comedies and later branching into drama and historical genres. Her cinematic work, though less frequent than her television appearances, has allowed her to portray a range of characters that complement her on-screen versatility seen in episodic formats.| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Singles | Ji-hye | Minor role as Jeong-joon's new girlfriend in this romantic comedy about young adults navigating relationships.[54] |
| 2005 | My Boyfriend Is Type-B | Ha-mi | Lead role as a optimistic young woman who falls for a free-spirited type-B man; the film was a commercial success, drawing 1,235,768 admissions in South Korea.[11][55] |
| 2008 | Humming | Mi-yeon | Central role as a woman grappling with emotional turmoil in this indie drama exploring love and loss. |
| 2010 | Blades of Blood | Baek-ji | Supporting role as a skilled kisaeng and warrior in this historical action film set during the Joseon Dynasty.[6] |
Television series
Han Ji-hye began her television career with supporting roles in the early 2000s before transitioning to leading parts in major dramas. Her breakthrough came with the epic series East of Eden, where she portrayed the lead character Kim Ji-hyun in a story spanning family feuds and historical events.[56]| Year | Title | Role | Episodes | Network | Air dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Great Luck Family | Unknown | Unknown | KBS2 | 2002 |
| 2003 | The Bean Chaff of My Life | Shin Hee-jung | 16 | KBS2 | January 15 – March 4, 2003 |
| 2003 | Summer Scent | Park Jung-ah | 20 (of 26) | KBS2 | July 7 – August 31, 2003 |
| 2004 | Sweet 18 | Yoon Jung-sook | 16 | KBS2 | November 19 – December 23, 2004 |
| 2006 | Cloud Stairs | Yoon Jung-won | 16 | MBC | January 4 – February 23, 2006 |
| 2007 | Likeable or Not | Na Dan-poong | 172 | SBS | May 23 – October 19, 2007 |
| 2008–2009 | East of Eden | Kim Ji-hyun (lead) | 56 | MBC | August 25, 2008 – March 10, 2009 |
| 2011 | The Duo | Dong Nyeo (lead) | 32 | MBC | January 4 – March 1, 2011 |
| 2012 | May Queen | Chun Hae-joo (lead) | 38 | MBC | August 18 – December 23, 2012 |
| 2014 | Beyond the Clouds | Han Yeong-won (lead) | 16 | KBS2 | May 5 – June 24, 2014 |
| 2014–2015 | The Legendary Witch | Moon Soo-in (lead) | 40 | MBC | October 25, 2014 – March 8, 2015[57] |
| 2018 | Marry Me Now | Park Yoo-ha (lead) | 50 | KBS2 | March 7 – May 28, 2018 |
| 2019 | Golden Garden | Eun Dong-joo (lead) | 60 | MBC | July 20 – October 26, 2019[58] |
| 2023 | Han River Police | Eun-sook (supporting) | 6 | Disney+ | September 13 – 27, 2023 |
| 2025 | Buried Hearts (Bomulseom) | Sister Agnes (guest) | 16 (select episodes) | SBS | February 21 – April 12, 2025 |
| 2025 | Don't Call Me Ma'am (aka Because There Is No Next Life) | Yang Mi-suk (supporting) | 12 (ongoing) | TV Chosun | November 10, 2025 – present[59] |
Music videos
Han Ji-hye appeared in several music videos during the early stages of her career, primarily as a model and actress in promotional content for prominent K-pop artists. These roles helped establish her visibility in the entertainment industry before her breakthrough in television dramas. In addition to these, Han Ji-hye made minor cameos in other K-pop music videos during her early career, such as title tracks from Liz's first and second albums, as well as Lee Soo-young's fourth, fifth, and sixth albums, often through connections with her agency, Lee Ga Entertainment.[3] There have been no reported music video appearances by Han Ji-hye since 2010, as her focus shifted to acting and family life.Recognition
Awards
Han Ji-hye has garnered several accolades for her television performances, accumulating 8 major TV wins across various ceremonies as of November 2025, with no new awards reported from her recent projects. Her early recognition came for breakthrough roles in romantic dramas, with subsequent honors highlighting her versatility in long-form storytelling. The following table summarizes her major award wins, grouped by year and ceremony:| Year | Ceremony | Award | Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | KBS Drama Awards | Best New Actress | Summer Scent |
| 2004 | Baeksang Arts Awards | Best New Actress (TV) | Sweet 18 |
| 2007 | KBS Drama Awards | Excellence Award (Daily Drama, Actress) | Likeable or Not |
| 2008 | MBC Drama Awards | Excellence Award (Actress) | East of Eden |
| 2008 | Korea Drama Awards | Excellence Award (Actress) | Likeable or Not |
| 2012 | MBC Drama Awards | Top Excellence Award (Actress, Serial Drama) | May Queen |
| 2012 | Korean Culture and Entertainment Awards | Top Excellence Award (Actress in a Drama) | May Queen |
| 2013 | MBC Drama Awards | Top Excellence Award (Actress, Weekend Drama) | I Summon You, Gold! |
| 2018 | KBS Drama Awards | Excellence Award (Long-Length Drama, Actress) | Marry Me Now |