Lee Do Hyun gets emotional talking about his parents who worked multiple jobs to raise him and his brother, who was born with a developmental disorder

Korean actor Lee Do Hyun, 27, is best known for starring in dramas like Hotel Del Luna, 18 Again, and more recently, The Glory.

The actor, who revealed today (Apr 1) that he is dating his The Glory co-star Lim Ji Yeon, made his showbiz debut in 2017's Prison Playbook. With his boyishly handsome looks, he was quickly dubbed the “nation’s first love”.

In 2021, he was awarded the Top Excellence Award at the KBS Drama Awards for his role in Youth of May. During his acceptance speech, Do Hyun held back tears while talking about the impact his younger brother, who was born with a developmental disorder, has had on him. He also credited the latter for keeping him grounded in his acting career.

The actor spoke about his brother in his KBS Drama Award acceptance speech

Do Hyun appeared on the Mar 22 episode of Korean variety show Yoo Quiz On The Block, where he again got emotional while talking about his family.

When asked by host Yoo Jae Suk about his speech, Do Hyun revealed that his brother “wasn’t in the best health". As a result, his brother didn’t have any friends growing up, and required plenty of attention from their parents.

“My brother is very adorable, he’s stubborn and loves to eat, but [he’s] also very pure and innocent. It would be great if everyone can be more tolerant when they see him," he said.

Do Hyun also recounted how he felt “a little jealous” when he found out that his brother’s phone wallpaper was an image of a female idol group. 

He spoke fondly of his family in the recent episode of Yoo Quiz On The Block

As Do Hyun achieved more success in his career, he was able to repay his family’s debts, and managed to move them to a spacious, more comfortable house last year.

Recalling how his mum used to juggle three jobs, and how hard his dad worked, Do Hyun said his goal was to be the only one in their family of four to be working.

Though he is earning enough to support them now, the actor held back his tears while revealing that his parents are still adamant about working.

According to Do Hyun, his mum told him: “Looking after you is my life."

The actor also plans to throw a wedding ceremony for his parents when he gets the chance, and wants to send them on a honeymoon, with Do Hyun taking on the responsibility of caring for his brother. 

He then addressed his parents, wishing them happiness and health. “I hope you two can enjoy leading your own lives now,” he said.

Do Hyun also promised his brother that he will ensure that he gets to “live a life where he can do whatever his heart desires”.

Do Hyun in Netflix drama Sweet Home Photos: Lee Do Hyun/ Instagram, ETToday