Wi Ha-joon is a dynamic South Korean actor and model whose magnetic screen presence has captivated audiences both at home and globally. Best known internationally for his role as the determined police officer Hwang Jun-ho in Netflix’s smash-hit Squid Game (2021), Wi Ha-joon has steadily built an impressive acting portfolio that spans film, television, and web dramas. With striking visuals, athletic charm, and emotionally layered performances, he has become one of the most sought-after young stars in the Korean entertainment industry.
Born on August 5, 1991, on the scenic island of Soando in South Jeolla Province, South Korea, Wi Ha-joon grew up on his family’s abalone farm. This quiet rural upbringing sharply contrasts with the glamorous life he now leads, making his rise to stardom all the more fascinating. He first developed an interest in acting during high school and pursued formal education in theatre and film at Sungkyul University.
Wi’s career began in earnest with small roles in films and dramas, but it was the 2018 horror-thriller Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum that put him on the map. The same year, he further established his acting credentials in the romantic drama Something in the Rain. His ability to switch effortlessly between genres—thrillers, romance, action, and comedy—has made him a versatile actor admired by fans and critics alike.
Following the global success of Squid Game, Wi landed prominent roles in series like Little Women (2022), Bad and Crazy (2021), and The Worst of Evil (2023), showing a knack for emotionally rich, high-intensity characters. In 2024, he starred in the romantic drama The Midnight Romance in Hagwon, once again proving his strength in emotionally driven roles.
Beyond acting, Wi Ha-joon is known for his humble personality, athleticism, and model-like visuals, often featured in fashion magazines and luxury brand endorsements. Whether fighting crime on-screen or posing with high-end couture off-screen, Wi Ha-joon brings a unique charisma that continues to win hearts globally.
Personal Life
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Original/Real Name | Wi Hyun-yi (위현이) |
| Other/Nickname | N/A |
| Profession/Occupation | Actor, Model |
| Birthplace | Soando, Sinan County, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Age | 33 years (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1991 |
| Hometown | Soando, Jeollanam-do |
| Caste/Religion | N/A / Christian |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign | Leo |
| Current career status | Active |
Physical Appearance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Height (Centimeters) | 180 cm (5’11”) |
| Weight (Kilograms) | 68 kg |
| Body Measurements | 38-31-14 inches |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye’s Color | Dark Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Father’s name | Not Publicly Known |
| Mother’s name | Not Publicly Known |
| Brother’s name | One older brother |
| Sister’s name | N/A |
Marital Status, Affairs, Relationships
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Boyfriend | N/A |
| Dating | Rumored to be single (as of 2025) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse/Husband | N/A |
| Son | N/A |
| Daughter | N/A |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| School | Local school in Soando |
| College/University | Sungkyul University |
| Educational Qualification | Degree in Theatre and Film |
Controversies
Wi Ha-joon has maintained a largely controversy-free career. His reputation in the industry is that of a professional and humble actor. Any rumors about his dating life or past relationships have never escalated into confirmed controversies.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Favorite Food | Kimchi stew, abalone |
| Favorite Movie | The Dark Knight |
| Favorite Actor | Leonardo DiCaprio |
| Favorite Actress | Natalie Portman |
| Favorite Color | Blue |
| Favorite Designer | Louis Vuitton |
| Favorite Destination | Jeju Island, Switzerland |
| Favorite Cafe | N/A |
| Favorite daily wear brand | Nike, Ralph Lauren |
| Favorite Book | N/A |
| Favorite Athlete | Son Heung-min |
Money/Net Worth
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | Estimated $40,000 per episode (2024) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 Million (as of 2025) |
Contact Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | N/A |
| E-Mail Address | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Phone Number | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| House Address | Seoul, South Korea |
Social Media
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Wikipedia | Wi Ha-joon |
| N/A | |
| N/A | |
| @wi__wi__wi |
Personal quote:
“I want to be an actor who leaves a mark on people’s hearts through every role I take.”
Early Life and Career
Wi Ha-joon was born and raised on the quiet island of Soando, where his parents managed an abalone farm. Growing up in such an environment instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, simplicity, and connection to nature. He initially pursued dance before shifting his focus to acting, which led him to enroll in Sungkyul University for theater and film.
He made his acting debut in the 2015 film Coin Locker Girl and gained attention for his role in Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum (2018), which became one of Korea’s highest-grossing horror films. He transitioned to more mainstream success with his role in the acclaimed drama Something in the Rain alongside Son Ye-jin.
His international breakthrough came in 2021 with Squid Game, where his portrayal of the relentless police officer Hwang Jun-ho garnered global recognition. He followed it up with memorable performances in 18 Again, Bad and Crazy, and Little Women.
Current life/Events:
In 2024 and 2025, Wi Ha-joon expanded his acting repertoire with the lead role in The Midnight Romance in Hagwon, opposite Jung Ryeo-won. He’s also part of various brand campaigns and continues to headline fashion editorials in top magazines like GQ Korea and Harper’s Bazaar.
Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Wi Ha-joon
- He grew up on an abalone farm in a remote island village.
- His birth name is Wi Hyun-yi, but he adopted “Ha-joon” for his stage career.
- He studied Taekwondo and dance in his early years.
- Despite his intense thriller roles, he is known for his playful and goofy personality off-screen.
- He once said he still visits his family farm when he has time off from filming.
- He is a fitness enthusiast and has a strict workout regime.
- He was once featured in People Magazine’s “25 Sexiest Men You Can Watch on Netflix.”
- He’s a huge fan of The Dark Knight and has cited Batman as his favorite fictional character.
- He had to train in diving and swimming extensively for his role in Squid Game.
- He is shy in real life and has stated that acting helps him express feelings he otherwise can’t.
