Jun Ji-hyun Biography, News, Updates, Video and Photos

Early Life and Education

Jun Ji-hyun was born in Seoul, South Korea, and initially had dreams of becoming a flight attendant. However, her life took a different turn when she was scouted by a fashion editor during her teenage years, which led to her entry into the world of modeling and acting. Jun attended Dongguk University, where she majored in Theater and Film.

Name: Jun Ji-hyun (also known as Gianna-Jun)
Birth Name: Wang Ji-hyun
Date of Birth: October 30, 1981
Place of Birth: Seoul, South Korea
Occupation: Actress, Model
Years Active: 1997–present
Spouse: Choi Joon-hyuk (m. 2012)
Children: 2

Career Beginnings

Jun Ji-hyun started her career as a model in the late 1990s, making her debut in a fashion magazine in 1997. Her first acting role came in the 1999 TV drama “Happy Together,” but it was the 2001 film “My Sassy Girl” that catapulted her to stardom. The romantic comedy became one of the highest-grossing Korean films and was a massive success in other Asian countries, making Jun a household name across the continent.

Breakthrough and International Success

Following the success of “My Sassy Girl,” Jun Ji-hyun became one of South Korea’s top actresses. She continued to take on a variety of roles in films such as “Il Mare” (2000), “The Uninvited” (2003), and “Windstruck” (2004). In 2006, she made her Hollywood debut in the film “Blood: The Last Vampire,” although the film did not fare well commercially.

Jun’s international appeal grew, however, with her role in “The Thieves” (2012), one of the highest-grossing Korean films of all time. Her other notable film roles include “The Berlin File” (2013) and “Assassination” (2015), both of which were box-office hits.

TV Triumph: '(My Love from the Star)' and '(Legend of the Blue Sea)

In addition to her film career, Jun Ji-hyun made a strong comeback to television with the 2013 hit drama “My Love from the Star,” in which she played a famous actress who falls in love with an alien living on Earth. The show was a massive success both domestically and internationally, particularly in China, boosting her popularity even further.

She followed this with another successful drama, “The Legend of the Blue Sea” (2016), where she portrayed a mermaid in a modern-day setting. Both dramas solidified her status as one of South Korea’s leading actresses in both film and television.

Personal Life

In 2012, Jun Ji-hyun married Choi Joon-hyuk, a banker and the grandson of famed hanbok designer Lee Young-hee. The couple has two children together. Despite her high-profile career, Jun maintains a relatively private personal life, rarely discussing her family in the media.

Awards and Honors

Jun Ji-hyun has received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Grand Bell Award, Blue Dragon Film Award, and Baeksang Arts Award. She is known for her versatility as an actress, effortlessly transitioning between dramatic and comedic roles.

Legacy and Influence

Jun Ji-hyun is often regarded as one of the most influential figures in the Korean entertainment industry. Her success has paved the way for other Korean actors and actresses to gain recognition on the international stage. Known for her beauty, elegance, and strong acting skills, she has also been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, often serving as a brand ambassador for luxury brands like Chanel and Gucci.

Recent Projects

In 2021, Jun returned to the small screen with a special appearance in “Kingdom: Ashin of the North,” a prequel to the hit Netflix series “Kingdom.” She has continued to be selective with her roles, balancing her career and family life.

Jun Ji-hyun remains a beloved figure in South Korea and across Asia, with a career spanning over two decades. Her talent, combined with her charm and elegance, ensures her place as a top star in the Korean entertainment industry.

Jun Ji-hyun: Movie Career

Jun Ji-hyun, also known as Gianna Jun, has had a prolific and successful film career in both South Korea and internationally. Below is an overview of her key films and notable contributions to cinema.

1. White Valentine (1999)

This film marked Jun Ji-hyun’s acting debut. Though it wasn’t a major commercial success, it showcased her potential as a rising star. She portrayed a quiet, introspective young woman involved in a love story, setting the stage for her future roles in romantic films.

2. Il Mare (2000)

In this time-travel romance film, Jun plays a lonely woman exchanging letters with a man from the past through a mysterious mailbox. The film was praised for its emotional depth and aesthetic cinematography, and though it wasn’t a box-office hit at the time, it gained a cult following. Hollywood later adapted the film into The Lake House (2006), featuring (Keanu Reeves) and Sandra Bullock.

3. My Sassy Girl (2001)

This romantic comedy was Jun Ji-hyun’s breakout role and became one of the most iconic films in South Korean cinema. Jun’s performance as the feisty, unpredictable, and eccentric “sassy girl” captivated audiences not just in South Korea but across Asia. The film was a massive commercial success and solidified her status as a top actress. My Sassy Girl became so popular that it was remade in various countries, including a Hollywood version in 2008.

4. The Uninvited (2003)

This psychological horror film saw Jun take on a more serious and dark role, playing a woman with psychic abilities who witnesses disturbing visions. Though not as commercially successful as her previous works, it showed her range as an actress and her willingness to tackle more complex characters.

5. Windstruck (2004)

In Windstruck, Jun Ji-hyun reunited with the director of My Sassy Girl. The film blends romantic comedy and melodrama, with Jun playing a police officer who forms a deep connection with a man who helps her during a criminal chase. While Windstruck wasn’t as successful as My Sassy Girl, it performed well in other Asian countries, especially in Japan.

6. Daisy (2006)

In this romantic drama, directed by Andrew Lau, Jun portrays a street artist caught in a love triangle between a professional assassin and an Interpol agent. Though the film received mixed reviews, it was visually striking and added another diverse role to her filmography.

7. Blood: The Last Vampire (2009)

Jun made her Hollywood debut in this action-fantasy film, portraying a half-human, half-vampire protagonist named Saya, a demon hunter. Despite high expectations, the film was a commercial and critical disappointment. Nevertheless, it demonstrated Jun’s versatility and marked her entry into international cinema.

8. The Thieves (2012)

This heist film, often referred to as the ‘Korean Ocean’s Eleven,’ became one of South Korea’s top-grossing films. The ensemble cast and intricate storyline made the film a huge success, further boosting Jun’s career after her brief Hollywood stint.

9. The Berlin File (2013)

In this action-packed espionage thriller, Jun Ji-hyun plays a North Korean spy alongside top actors like Ha Jung-woo and Han Suk-kyu. The film was both a critical and commercial success and marked Jun’s shift toward more serious action roles. Her portrayal of a North Korean agent added another dimension to her acting repertoire.

10. Assassination (2015)

Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea in the 1930s, Jun Ji-hyun took on the role of a sniper tasked with leading an assassination plot against key Japanese officials. The film was a box-office hit and earned Jun widespread acclaim for her portrayal of a strong, patriotic character. It remains one of the highest-grossing films in South Korean history.

11. Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021)

Although technically a TV film and part of the Kingdom series, Ashin of the North was released as a special feature-length episode and played a major role in the continuation of the popular Netflix zombie period drama. Jun Ji-hyun portrayed Ashin, a character with a tragic past who plays a key role in the origins of the zombie plague.

Awards and Accolades

Throughout her career, Jun Ji-hyun has received numerous accolades, including:

Grand Bell Awards
Blue Dragon Film Awards
Baeksang Arts Awards
Her films have also been recognized both domestically and internationally, solidifying her reputation as one of Korea’s top actresses.

Jun Ji-hyun's Legacy in Film

Jun Ji-hyun is one of the few Korean actresses who have successfully transitioned from romantic comedies to action, thriller, and historical dramas. Her willingness to experiment with different genres has made her a versatile and enduring figure in Korean cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, she remains one of the most influential and beloved actresses in South Korea and across Asia.

Jun Ji-hyun: Health and Fitness Routine

Jun Ji-hyun, known for her timeless beauty and graceful presence, is admired not only for her acting talent but also for maintaining a healthy and fit lifestyle. Even after decades in the entertainment industry and two pregnancies, she continues to radiate health and youthful energy. Here’s an overview of Jun Ji-hyun’s health and fitness routine:

Jun Ji-hyun highlights the significance of a balanced diet for maintaining her health and physique. Rather than following extreme diets, she focuses on consuming nutritious foods that fuel her body and enhance her skin’s glow. Her diet includes:

Fresh fruits and vegetables: She consumes plenty of antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits, which help in improving digestion, skin health, and overall vitality.

Protein-rich foods: Jun includes lean meats, fish, tofu, and other protein-rich foods to keep her energy levels up and maintain lean muscle mass.

Hydration: Staying hydrated is a priority for her, as it helps flush out toxins and keeps her skin radiant.

Moderation: Jun Ji-hyun practices portion control and moderation rather than restricting herself from eating her favorite foods.

2. Regular Exercise

Jun Ji-hyun’s fitness routine is a key part of her daily life, helping her stay in shape and keep her body toned. Her exercise regimen includes:

Pilates: Jun Ji-hyun is a big fan of Pilates, which she incorporates into her regular fitness routine. Pilates helps her improve flexibility, core strength, and posture. It is also known for building long, lean muscles, which contribute to her slim, toned physique.

Cardio Workouts: Jun also engages in cardio exercises such as running or cycling to maintain cardiovascular health and burn calories. This helps her maintain her stamina, especially for physically demanding roles in her acting career.

Strength Training: She includes light weight training in her workouts to build muscle strength and tone her body. Strength training is essential for boosting metabolism and maintaining a youthful, fit appearance.

3. Yoga and Stretching

To balance her more intense workouts, Jun Ji-hyun incorporates yoga and stretching into her routine. These practices not only help her improve flexibility but also offer mental relaxation and stress relief. Yoga, in particular, is known for promoting inner peace, which reflects in her calm and poised demeanor.

4. Consistent Skincare Routine

In addition to her fitness and diet, Jun Ji-hyun is known for her flawless, glowing skin. She follows a diligent skincare routine that includes:

Daily Cleansing: Proper cleansing is essential to keep her skin clear and radiant, especially after long shoots and wearing makeup.

Moisturizing: She ensures that her skin stays hydrated with high-quality moisturizers to maintain elasticity and prevent dryness.

Sun Protection: Sun protection is crucial for Jun Ji-hyun. She uses sunscreen daily to protect her skin from harmful UV rays, which are the primary cause of premature aging.

Facial Treatments: She often receives professional facial treatments to maintain her youthful glow and enhance skin firmness.

5. Mental Health and Well-being

Maintaining her mental health is equally important for Jun Ji-hyun, who leads a busy life as an actress and a mother. To manage stress and stay mentally fit, she:

Prioritizes Rest: Jun Ji-hyun ensures she gets enough sleep and rest, which is essential for overall health and energy.

Practices Mindfulness: Whether through yoga, meditation, or spending time with her family, she makes time for relaxation and self-care, which helps her stay mentally and emotionally balanced.

6. Active Lifestyle

In addition to her structured workouts, Jun Ji-hyun leads an active lifestyle, often engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming. These activities not only keep her physically active but also allow her to enjoy nature and unwind from the demands of her career.

Conclusion

Jun Ji-hyun’s health and fitness routine is centered around balance, discipline, and self-care. By focusing on a well-rounded diet, regular exercise, skincare, and mental well-being, she continues to maintain her youthful beauty and fit physique. Her commitment to living a healthy lifestyle is a testament to her dedication and discipline, which has helped her remain one of South Korea’s most admired actresses for decades.