Actor Jung Il Woo has unveiled a stunning new image with high-end lifestyle magazine The Neighbor, quickly earning praise for as fans call his most legendary hanbok images to date. The January issue, which opens 2026, highlights Jung Il Woo modeling a range of hanbok designs from various designers, fusing timeless Korean aesthetics with modern, refined charisma.
He made his debut in 2006 through the successful sitcom High kick! as Lee Yoon Ho, Jung Il Woo celebrates his 20th anniversary as an actor this year. The image has special meaning, as her mother, Professor Shim Yeon Ok, a former professor at the Korean National University of Cultural Heritage, participated as a hanbok style consultant, adding a deeply personal and cultural layer to the shoot.
In the interview following the photo shoot, Jung Il Woo shared that despite his extensive experience as a protagonist in historical dramas, this was his first hanbok painting ever. He said the ability to welcome audiences in traditional dress outside of the theater setting made the start of the year particularly meaningful.
He currently appears in the KBS drama Our golden daysJung Il Woo also talked about how he manages his health during long-term productions. He explained that long plays require greater concentration, which is why he maintains a routine of weight training, running and hiking. He added that spending a lot of time on set helped him grow closer to the other cast members, both professionally and personally, and shared his desire to finish the project on a strong note.
Jung Il Woo also revealed behind-the-scenes stories of his recent various activities, including his role as a domestic import investor for the horror film Together. While he doesn’t typically favor horror films, he said the project resonated with him and sparked a desire to help present audiences with a compelling film..
Looking ahead, Jung Il Woo hinted at an exceptionally busy year in 2026, teasing surprising new roles and a busy schedule with little rest. To celebrate his 20th debut anniversary, he also plans to meet fans in various countries, further strengthening his global connection.
Jung Il Woo’s full photo and interview can be found in the January issue of The Neighbor, as well as on the magazine’s official website and Instagram.
Sources: Daum
