Former U-KISS Member Lee Jun-young Says Being Told "Do Not Cause Trouble for Actors" Weighed on Him Most

Actor Lee Jun-young, a former member of the K-pop group U-KISS, is continuing to widen his standing as a leading actor through the drama "New Employee Chairman Kang." At the same time, he has spoken candidly about the psychological pressure he once felt while working as an idol-turned-actor, as well as the barriers of perception he encountered on set.

In a preview for next week's episode of tvN variety program "You Quiz on the Block," which aired on July 1, scenes featuring Lee Jun-young were revealed along with part of his remarks. In the clip, Lee recalled that one of the comments that hurt him most early in his transition into acting was, "Do not cause trouble for actors." By bringing up that experience, he indirectly exposed the identity conflict he faced within an industry structure where hierarchical perceptions can shape how performers are treated.

The remark can be read as an example of the prejudice often assigned to performers who begin their careers as idols and later move into acting. It also points to the tension that can arise during the process of proving professional credibility as an actor. In particular, Lee's experience suggests that social boundaries still remain when someone with a background in the layered performance industry crosses into the field of acting.

Lee Jun-young debuted in 2014 as a member of U-KISS and gradually expanded his career into acting while continuing his music activities. Beginning with tvN's "Avengers Social Club," he went on to take part in a range of projects, including Netflix's "Mask Girl" and "When Life Gives You Tangerines." Through that steady body of work, he has built a clearer presence as an actor. Although he initially experienced being undervalued because of his background as an idol, regardless of public recognition, he is now regarded as having broadened his acting range through consistent screen projects.

He has also previously spoken about personal experiences connected to financial hardship. Lee recalled an episode in which he unexpectedly ran into his manager while working a part-time job at a convenience store, and he shared the sense of psychological intimidation and emotional shock he felt at the time. The anecdote has been read as an example of the unstable economic realities and uncertain career-building process that can mark the early stages of entering the entertainment industry.

Meanwhile, Lee Jun-young is known to have taken part in the recording of tvN's "You Quiz on the Block" ahead of his scheduled military enlistment on July 21. During the recording, personal stories surrounding his family relationships and military service were reportedly discussed, placing a turning point in his life under the spotlight within the context of a variety program.