South Korean actor Lee Do Hyun finished his mandatory military service on May 13, 2025, after serving 21 months in the Air Force military band. Fans and media are buzzing about his return, especially his heartwarming reunion with girlfriend Lim Ji Yeon. The couple, who confirmed their relationship in April 2023, has been a fan favorite since starring together in the hit Netflix series The Glory. Lee’s discharge marks a new chapter for his acting career and personal life. His agency, Yuehua Entertainment, shared exciting updates about his future projects.
Lee began his military service on August 14, 2023, serving diligently in the Republic of Korea Air Force’s military band. Despite his duties, he stayed connected to his career, with three major projects released during his service. His film Exhuma became a box-office hit, drawing over 10 million viewers in South Korea. Lee also appeared in the dramas Death’s Game and Sweet Home 3, showcasing his versatility. His performance in Exhuma earned him the Best New Actor award at the 60th Baeksang Arts Awards in May 2024.
At the Baeksang Awards, Lee made headlines by attending in his military uniform. He gave a sweet shoutout to Lim Ji Yeon during his acceptance speech, saying, Ji Yeon, thank you. The moment melted fans’ hearts and sparked cheers from the audience. Lim, who was a presenter at the event, shared smiles with Lee, showing their strong bond. Their chemistry at the awards reaffirmed their status as a beloved celebrity couple.
We support each other a lot and rely on each other. His presence alone is something I’m grateful for. — Lim Ji Yeon, in an interview with Herald POP.
It’s okay. We met during the Baeksang Awards, and he congratulated me. He’s doing well inside the military and is healthy. — Lim Ji Yeon, speaking to OSEN about their relationship.
The couple’s relationship began on the set of The Glory, where they played compelling roles in the revenge drama. Their romance grew after a cast trip in 2022, and they went public after paparazzi photos surfaced. Fans admire their supportive dynamic, with Lim often praising Lee’s dedication. During his service, they made time for each other, including a cozy brunch date in February 2024 and attending a friend’s wedding together in July 2024.
Lee showed his loyalty by hosting a college friend’s wedding while on military leave in July 2024. Lim joined him at the private Seoul event, and their presence drew attention from guests. Lee’s warm demeanor shone as he posed for photos and officiated the ceremony. The couple sat at separate tables to keep the focus on the newlyweds, showing their thoughtfulness. Fans on social media praised their down-to-earth nature.
This was so adorable, I loved them naming each other in their speech. — A netizen on X, reacting to their Baeksang moment.
LEE DOHYUN IS BACK FROM MILITARY, can’t believe I said that. — Another fan on X, celebrating his discharge.
Now that Lee is discharged, his agency says he’s already receiving offers for dramas, films, and advertisements. One exciting prospect is a lead role in a new drama by the Hong Sisters, alongside Go Min Si, his co-star from past projects. The duo previously worked together in Youth of May and Reincarnation Romance. Fans are eager to see Lee return to the screen, given his acclaimed roles in Hotel del Luna, 18 Again, and The Good Bad Mother.
Lim Ji Yeon has also been busy, starring in the film Revolver and preparing for the JTBC drama The Tale of Mrs. Ok. Her support for Lee during his service touched fans, who affectionately called her “military girlfriend era” over. The couple’s reunion has sparked joy online, with posts on X celebrating their bond. One fan wrote, Congratulations on finishing military healthily, reflecting the warm sentiment.
Lee’s journey began with his debut in Prison Playbook in 2017. Born in 1995, he graduated from Chung-Ang University’s Department of Film and Theater. His rise to fame came through standout roles in Sweet Home and The Glory, earning him global recognition. At just 30, Lee has already made a mark with a Baeksang award and a hit movie. His return is a big moment for K-drama fans worldwide.
The focus on Lee and Lim’s reunion highlights their genuine connection. They’ve navigated public attention with grace, from stolen date moments to award show smiles. Lee’s military service was a time of growth, as he once said, Military life is another opportunity for growth. Now, he’s ready to bring that energy to his acting. Fans are thrilled to see what’s next for this talented star.
As Lee steps back into the spotlight, his reunion with Lim Ji Yeon remains a sweet highlight. Their story resonates with fans for its sincerity and warmth. With new projects on the horizon, Lee is poised to continue his impressive career. The entertainment world welcomes him back with open arms. His journey forward promises exciting roles and more cherished moments with Lim.
