IU, whose real name is Lee Ji-eun, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and actress known for her sweet voice, inspiring life story, and unique style. Born on May 16, 1993, IU has become a widely loved figure in K-pop, often called “The Nation’s Little Sister” in Korea. Her journey from a struggling trainee to a popular artist and actor is a story of dedication and talent that has inspired fans worldwide. This article covers IU’s age, bio, physical appearance, career, family, and net worth, giving you a complete picture of her life.

IU’s Wikipedia & Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lee Ji-eun |
| Stage Name | IU (아이유) |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Actress |
| Date of Birth | May 16, 1993 |
| Place of Birth | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Debut | September 18, 2008 |
| Agency | EDAM Entertainment |
| Fandom Name | Uaena |
| Languages | Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese |
IU has been active in the entertainment industry since her debut in 2008. Known for her hit songs like “Good Day” and “Eight,” her career also includes acting in popular Korean dramas such as Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo and Hotel Del Luna. She is celebrated for her ability to convey deep emotions through her music and acting, making her one of Korea’s most loved solo artists.
IU’s Age: How Old is IU?
As of 2024, IU is 31 years old. She was born on May 16, 1993, in Seoul, South Korea. IU began her career as a teenager, debuting in the music industry at only 15. Over the years, her talent has matured, and she has developed into a successful artist, gaining worldwide fans and respect in the Korean entertainment industry.
IU’s Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’4″ (162 cm) |
| Weight | 103.6 lbs (47 kg) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Body Type | Slim |
| Distinctive Feature | Youthful appearance |
IU is known for her youthful looks and petite frame, which complement her innocent and charming image. Despite her slim build, she has a strong stage presence and captivating expressions that enhance her performances. Her style is unique, often changing based on her music concepts or acting roles.

IU’s Birthday, Zodiac Sign, and Ethnicity
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthday | May 16, 1993 |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Ethnicity | Korean |
Born on May 16, IU is a Taurus. People under the Taurus sign are often known for their reliability, patience, and determination—all qualities that IU has shown throughout her career. Her Korean ethnicity is a big part of her identity, and she often incorporates Korean culture and emotions into her music and performances.
IU’s Career
IU’s career began when she signed with LOEN Entertainment in 2007 after facing many rejections in auditions. She debuted in 2008 with her single “Lost Child” but didn’t gain major success until 2010 with her hit song “Good Day.” Since then, she has released many popular songs like “Palette,” “Eight,” and “Celebrity.” Apart from music, IU is also an actress, starring in popular Korean dramas like My Mister and Hotel Del Luna. Her versatility has made her one of the most celebrated artists in Korea.
IU’s Family
IU’s family includes her parents and a younger brother. She faced financial hardships during her early years, with her family struggling to make ends meet. This challenging period helped her develop resilience and a strong work ethic. IU has mentioned in interviews that her family has been a significant source of motivation, especially her grandmother, who supported her when she was just starting her career.
What is IU’s Net Worth in 2024?
| Year | Net Worth (in USD) |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $15 million |
| 2020 | $18 million |
| 2021 | $22 million |
| 2022 | $25 million |
| 2023 | $28 million |
| 2024 | $30 million |
As of 2024, IU’s estimated net worth is around $30 million. Her earnings come from album sales, concerts, acting roles, and brand endorsements. Known for her philanthropy, IU also donates generously to various causes, including scholarships, disaster relief funds, and charities for children, showing that her success benefits not only her fans but also those in need.