Lee Do-hyun Returns from Military Service to Major Acclaim and Upcoming Asian Fan Tour
On May 20, rising star Lee Do-hyun was honored with the New Male Actor Award at the 23rd Director’s Cut Awards for his breakout role in the hit film Exhuma.
This prestigious award, voted on by Korean film directors and presented by the Directors Guild of Korea (DGK), highlights Lee Do-hyun’s growing influence in the industry. Exhuma, an occult mystery film about shamans and a suspicious grave, attracted an impressive 11.91 million viewers, earning Lee Do-hyun the title of a “10-million-viewer actor.” The film’s success added to Lee Do-hyun’s accolades, including his Best New Actor win at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards last year, which he earned while serving in the military.
Lee Do-hyun officially concluded his military service on May 13, returning from the Air Force military band. His discharge ended his service period that began in August 2023 and was warmly supported by fans and his partner, actress Lim Ji-yeon. The couple publicly confirmed their relationship prior to his enlistment and have since received warm support from fans.
Lee Do-hyun’s return marks a highly anticipated comeback to the entertainment world after gaining fame through acclaimed dramas such as Hotel Del Luna, 18 Again, Youth of May, Sweet Home, and The Glory. His role in The Good Bad Mother further solidified his reputation as one of Korea’s most promising young actors.
In his award speech, Lee Do-hyun said, “I heard this year marks the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards. When it turns 70, I’ll be 40 — and by then, I hope to be aiming for Best Actor. As Private Lim Dong-hyun, I will do my best during my military service and return as actor Lee Do-hyun in May next year.”
Now back from military duty, the spotlight is on Lee Do-hyun as he prepares to launch his Asian fan meeting tour, Re: DO HYUN, beginning June 14–15 in Seoul. The tour will travel across eight cities, including Jakarta, Osaka, Tokyo, Taipei, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Manila, reflecting his rising international popularity.
With a successful film debut, critical acclaim, and a growing fanbase, Lee Do-hyun is poised for a stellar post-military career, ready to take on new roles and further establish himself as a leading figure in Korean cinema and television.
