In a tale reminiscent of a K-drama, Lee Joon-hyung, once an aspiring K-pop idol with SM Entertainment, has redefined his career trajectory, transforming from a trainee embroiled in controversy to a ce...
In a tale reminiscent of a K-drama , Lee Joon-hyung, once an aspiring K-pop idol with SM Entertainment , has redefined his career trajectory, transforming from a trainee embroiled in controversy to a celebrated actor in South Korea by December 2025. The Fall from Grace at SM Entertainment Lee Joon-hyung, now 28, first entered the spotlight as a promising talent under SM Entertainment, one of South Korea’s most influential entertainment companies responsible for acts like EXO and Red Velvet. However, in March 2017, his career faced an abrupt halt when he was dismissed from the trainee program due to allegations of illicit behavior, including underage drinking and unauthorized club appearances, as reported by a company insider. A Second Chance in the Entertainment Industry Undeterred by the setbacks, Lee Joon-hyung pivoted his career towards acting. By 2020, he had secured a minor role in the hit drama 'Hospital Playlist'. His performance caught the attention of director Shin Won-ho, who...