IU (The Nation's Little Sister) LEE JIEUN
Finding Inspiration in IU's Music: Exploring the Artistry of Lee Ji-eun
IU (The Nation's Little Sister) LEE JIEUN
Lee Ji Eun, also known as IU, is a singer-songwriter and actress from South Korea. She is currently signed to EDAM Entertainment. IU started her career as a trainee and made her solo debut on September 18, 2008, with the release of her mini album titled "Lost and Found". One of her most successful songs, "Good Day", catapulted her into stardom in 2010.
IU chose her stage name as a representation of the idea that music can bring people together. The name "IU" is derived from the phrase "I and You", symbolizing the unity that can be achieved through the power of music.
Profiles
IU’s Fandom Name: Uaena (You love me)
IU’s Fandom Color: Neon/Lime Green
Stage Name: IU (아이유)
Birth Name: Lee Ji Eun (이지은)
Nickname: Nation’s Little Sister; Nation’s Sweetheart
Birthday: May 16, 1993
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Height: 162 cm (5 ft 3¾ in)
Weight: 47 kg (103 lbs)
Blood Type: O
MBTI Type: INFP
Instagram: @dlwlrma
Twitter: @lily199iu (Personal account), @_IUofficial (Official account)
Facebook: 아이유(IU)
vLive: IU
Youtube: 이지금 [IU Official]
Fan Cafe: IU
Agency
EDAM Entertainment (2020–present)
Kakao M (2007–2012; 2018–2020)
FAVE Entertainment (2012–2018)
Good Entertainment (-2007)
EMI Music Japan (Japan)
Gold Typhoon (Taiwan)
Partner
Lee Jong Suk (2022–present)
Jang Kiha (2013–2017)
Early life
When IU was 14 years old, she made the decision to pursue a career as a singer. This decision came after she performed at her school's sports competition and received applause from the audience, which made her incredibly happy. Determined to achieve her dream, IU began attending auditions in the hopes of being discovered. However, she faced disappointment as she failed all 20 auditions she went for. Additionally, she fell victim to fake entertainment companies that scammed her.
As if her struggles weren't enough, IU's family encountered financial difficulties when her father's project failed. This forced IU to live separately from her parents and instead reside in a small studio room with her grandmother, younger brother, and cousin for a duration of one and a half years. During this time, IU had to endure extreme poverty.
Despite these obstacles, IU remained determined to pursue her passion for singing. She continued to work hard and persevere, even in the face of adversity. This resilience would eventually pay off as she emerged as a successful singer in the Korean music industry.
The experience of facing numerous rejections and financial hardships shaped IU into the strong and resilient artist she is today. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring singers and individuals who may be facing their own challenges. IU's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles in order to achieve one's dreams.
Career
In 2008, IU made her debut appearance on Mnet M! Countdown, showcasing her first single titled "Lost Child".
The following year, in 2009, IU released her debut studio album called "Growing Up". The album featured the lead promotional track "Boo". Within a span of three weeks, "Boo" climbed to the top spot on SBS Inkigayo's contenders list, and IU's name appeared twice on Take 7 alongside renowned artists like SG Wannabe and Younha. "Boo" also achieved success on KBS Music Bank K-Chart, Mnet M! Countdown chart, and various online music charts.
2010
In 2010, IU collaborated with 2AM's Seulong to record the track "Nagging" for the popular TV show We Got Married. This marked an important milestone for IU, as she received her first award on June 27, 2010, for "Nagging" on SBS Inkigayo.
For her third mini-album, Real, which was released in December 2010, IU had the opportunity to work with some of South Korea's most renowned musicians and producers. Lee Min Soo and Kim Eana, the talented individuals behind IU's previous hit "Nagging," played a significant role in producing her award-winning song "Good Day."
2011
In 2011, IU gained immense popularity through various projects such as her appearance in the KBS2 drama, Dream High, where she played the role of Kim Pil-sook. The drama aired from January 3 to February 28, with a special episode on March 1.
Later that year, on November 29, IU released her second full-length album titled Last Fantasy. This album turned out to be a massive success as all 13 songs immediately dominated the charts in Korea, achieving an ‘all-kill’. The tracklist for the album had been previously unveiled on November 22, 2011.
2012
In 2012, IU made her debut in Japan with the release of "Good Day", which was accompanied by a promotional video. This song served as the title track for her Japanese single album. The album, which also included DVD footage from a showcase, became available on March 21, 2012.
Following her Japanese debut, IU continued to make waves with her music. On May 11, she released a single album called "Spring of a Twenty Year Old". This album featured three songs, one of which was composed by IU herself. Prior to the album's release, the song "Peach" was digitally released on May 4.
During her Japanese debut and the release of "Spring of a Twenty Year Old", IU showcased her talent and versatility as a musician. The promotional video for "Good Day" introduced her to the Japanese audience and set the stage for her successful entrance into the Japanese music industry. Additionally, the inclusion of self-composed songs in her album demonstrated her growth and creativity as an artist.
Overall, 2012 marked an important year in IU's career as she expanded her musical reach into Japan and continued to captivate audiences with her unique style and talent.
2013
In 2013, IU took on several acting and music projects that showcased her talent and versatility. One of her notable roles was in the weekend drama "You're the Best, Lee Soon-shin" which aired on the KBS2 Network from March 9 to August 25. In the drama, IU portrayed a seemingly unlucky girl who remained courageous and bright.
During this time, on September 16, LOEN Entertainment released two teaser images for IU's upcoming 3rd full album titled "Modern Times". The album featured a variety of genres including jazz, Bossa Nova, swing, and Latin pop. It was highly anticipated by fans and on October 7, the album was finally released. It quickly rose to the top of Korean music charts and received recognition on Korea's major music programs. As a bonus, a repackaged version of "Modern Times" was released on December 20, containing two additional tracks - "Friday" and "Crayon".
IU's talents extended beyond acting as she also joined the cast of the drama "Pretty Man". In this Wednesday-Thursday drama which aired from November 20, 2013, to January 9, 2014, on KBS2 Network, IU took on the role of Kim Bo Tong.
Overall, 2013 was a busy and successful year for IU as she showcased her skills in both television dramas and music. Her performances in "You're the Best, Lee Soon-shin" and "Pretty Man" were praised by audiences, while her album "Modern Times" solidified her position as a leading artist in the Korean music industry.
2014
After making her debut in Hong Kong on June 23, 2012, during the Music Bank event alongside other K-pop idols, IU returned to the city on March 23, 2014, to showcase her album Modern Times. During this time, she also collaborated with the newly-formed boy group HIGH4 for their debut track titled "Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms," which was released on April 8.
On May 16, IU released A Flower Bookmark, an album consisting of remakes of seven classic Korean songs. To celebrate the release, she held a special concert called "Just One Step... That Much More" from May 22 to June 1 at Sogang University Mary Hall. The concert featured live performances of all seven new songs.
On July 1, the digital single "Summer Love," a collaboration between Ulala Session and IU, was finally released. The release had been postponed due to the unfortunate passing of the leader of Ulala Session in 2012, shortly after the song was recorded. Additionally, IU was featured in the track "Sing For Me" (translated) on G.O.D.'s 8th album, which was released on July 8, 2014.
On August 9, IU performed for the first time in the U.S. at the KCON 2014 event held in Los Angeles, U.S.A. Excerpts of the concerts in the event, which included 9 other K-pop artists/groups, was later broadcast in Korea on August 14, 2014 by Mnet as a special program named "M! Countdown 2 Nights in L.A.". She was also interviewed by Billboard.
IU unveiled her rendition of the track "Sogyeokdong" on October 2nd as part of a collaborative venture with Seo Taiji.
Furthermore, on October 31st, IU collaborated with labelmate Yoon Hyun Sang on his debut track and accompanying music video titled "When Would It Be", which was subsequently released.
2015
In 2015, it was announced that IU would be joining the cast of KBS2's The Producers as one of the main female leads. Her character in the show portrays a singer with a diva-like personality.
Later on, May 17th, IU surprised her fans by releasing a song called "Heart," which she had composed herself. This gift to her fans quickly gained popularity and achieved an all-kill on the charts the very next day. Although the song was initially introduced in the drama The Producers, it was not included in the official OST album. Instead, it was included as a special track in the special edition album.
IU's participation in The Producers marked an exciting milestone in her career, showcasing her talent not only as an actress but also as a skilled musician. Her self-composed song "Heart" served as a special treat for her fans, further solidifying her position as a multi-talented artist.
With her captivating performances and undeniable charm, IU continues to captivate both audiences and critics alike. Her involvement in The Producers and the success of her song "Heart" further cemented her status as one of the most influential and talented artists in the industry.
2020
In 2020, there was a significant shift in agencies for her. On January 6th, she and her complete team of employees made the move from Kakao M to EDAM Entertainment, a subsidiary of Kakao M. This transition was facilitated by her manager, who had been with her for 12 years.
Relationship
On October 8, 2015, a report from local news source Dispatch revealed that IU and Jang Ki Ha (from the band Jang Ki Ha and the Faces) were romantically involved. This information was later confirmed by IU's management agency, Loen Entertainment.
Fast forward to January 23, 2017, and it was officially announced that IU and Jang Ki Ha had ended their relationship.
Then, on December 31, 2022, Dispatch once again made headlines by reporting that IU and Jong Suk were in a romantic relationship. According to the report, the couple had been together for approximately four months. Later that same day, both EDAM Entertainment and HighZium Studio confirmed the accuracy of these reports.
Age Trivia
IU was born on May 16, 1993 in Seoul, South Korea.
Having a birthday on May 16, IU falls under the zodiac sign of Taurus.
Being born in 1993, her Chinese zodiac corresponds to the rooster.
IU had a four-year relationship with Korean TV host Jang Ki Ha, despite their 11-year age difference.
At the young age of 15 (according to international age), IU made her debut as a soloist in 2008.
She embarked on her acting career at 17 years old, appearing in the K-drama Dream High in January 2011.
In 2016, at the age of 23, IU starred in Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, where she acted alongside her co-star Lee Joon Gi, who is 11 years her senior.
IU was 26 years old when she took on a lead role in the drama Hotel Del Luna in 2019. Her co-star Yeo Jin Goo is four years younger than her.
She is one year older than her friend Suzy (Miss A) and 11 years younger than actress Yoo In Na.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Before making her debut, IU's record label proposed the name "IU," which stands for "I and You," symbolizing the power of music to connect people.
IU had a romantic relationship with Jang Ki Ha, a songwriter and TV host who is 11 years her senior. The couple first met when Jang Ki Ha was hosting a radio show in 2013. IU instantly fell in love with him and they began dating shortly after. After keeping their relationship a secret for two years, IU and Jang Ki Ha went public in October 2015. Unfortunately, their relationship came to an end in January 2017 after four years together. Busy schedules were cited as the reason for their breakup.
IU holds a prominent position as one of the most influential female celebrities in South Korea. Renowned for her talents in both acting and music, she has achieved remarkable success and remains one of the highest-earning individuals in the industry.
During her early career, IU trained under Good Entertainment alongside other aspiring artists such as Uee, Yubin from Wonder Girls, Heo Ga-yoon from 4Minute, and Jun Hyoseong from Secret. This experience allowed her to develop her skills and cultivate a strong foundation in the entertainment world.
IU faced financial hardships within her family. For a period of over a year during her middle school years, she and her brother resided with their grandmother and cousins, separated from their parents. The living conditions they experienced were characterized by poverty.
Did you know that IU stands at a height of 162 cm (equivalent to 5'4'')? Interestingly, there are other Kpop idols who share the same height as her. Some notable names include Jisoo from Blackpink, Jihyo from Twice, and Dara from 2NE1.
IU previously mentioned that her preferred type was Taeyang, a member of the popular Korean boy band Big Bang. Several well-known K-pop idols have openly expressed their admiration for IU or have been recognized as her devoted fanboys. These include Jungkook from BTS, Yoseob from Highlight, actor Kim Soo Hyun, and Suho and Kai from EXO.
Friendship: IU is very good friends with Suzy (Miss A), Jiyeon (T-ara), actress Yoo In Na, Sulli (fx), and Goo Hara (Kara).
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