Lee Je Hoon Opens Up About Family’s Struggles During 1997 IMF Crisis
Popular South Korean actor Lee Je Hoon recently spoke candidly about a deeply personal chapter from his life — his family’s financial struggles during the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, also known as the IMF crisis in South Korea. His emotional account came during promotions for his upcoming film ‘Big Deal’, which is set during the same turbulent era.
Lee, known for his performances in ‘Signal’, ‘Move to Heaven’, and ‘Where Stars Land’, appeared for an interview on June 2, where he reflected on the real-life challenges his family faced during that time.
"I Actually Lived Through It": Lee Shares His Story
While speaking about ‘Big Deal’, Lee revealed that the movie’s storyline resonated with him on a personal level. The film, set during the 1997 IMF crisis, triggered memories of his own childhood experiences.
“I actually experienced a difficult time during the IMF crisis, so it was meaningful to tell this story,” said Lee during the interview, as reported by Koreaboo.
The actor recalled how, from his middle school years to his early 20s, he witnessed his family’s business — a rice shop and a restaurant — take a hit due to the economic downturn. He vividly described the moment he saw his father begin working as a day labourer, which made him realize the depth of their financial difficulties.
Background: What Was the 1997 IMF Crisis?
The 1997 Asian Financial Crisis, commonly referred to as the IMF crisis in South Korea, was a severe economic event that impacted several East and Southeast Asian economies, including Thailand, Indonesia, and South Korea. The crisis led to mass bankruptcies, corporate layoffs, and IMF bailouts, with millions of families facing sudden financial instability.
South Korea was forced to accept a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), leading to sweeping economic reforms, corporate restructuring, and a national reckoning with debt and austerity.
For many South Koreans, including Lee Je Hoon, the crisis left lasting personal scars.
‘Big Deal’: A Story That Hits Home
Lee Je Hoon’s upcoming project, ‘Big Deal’, is a film that explores the story of an ambitious investment employee and the CFO of South Korea’s top Soju company during the peak of the IMF crisis. The film also stars Yoo Hae Jin, Son Hyun Joo, and Choi Young Joon.
Lee said that filming the movie was a deeply emotional experience, as it allowed him to revisit a significant chapter from his youth.
“While filming ‘Big Deal’, it felt very personal. I could relate to the characters’ emotional journey and the environment of uncertainty. It felt like reliving a memory,” he said.
A Respected Career with Humble Roots
Lee Je Hoon is widely respected in the South Korean entertainment industry for his versatile acting and choice of socially conscious projects. His recent work, including ‘Taxi Driver’ and ‘Move to Heaven’, has received both critical acclaim and popular success.
Though now a celebrated actor, Lee’s recent revelations offer a glimpse into the resilience behind his success. From a middle-schooler watching his father take up labour work to support the family, to portraying the human costs of economic hardship on-screen, Lee’s journey reflects both professional dedication and personal growth.
Public Response and Social Impact
Lee’s honest account has struck a chord with many fans and netizens in South Korea, especially those who lived through or are familiar with the aftermath of the 1997 crisis.
Social media users have praised him for speaking openly about a subject that many still find difficult to discuss. Some have also highlighted how the economic events of that era continue to shape generational attitudes toward money, education, and job security in the country.
Conclusion: Art Reflecting Life
By sharing his own experience during the promotion of a film grounded in historical economic turmoil, Lee Je Hoon has once again proven his ability to connect with audiences not just as an actor but as a voice of lived experience.
As ‘Big Deal’ prepares for release, Lee’s story adds a layer of authenticity and emotional depth to a film that already promises to be a powerful look at one of South Korea’s most defining economic crises.
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