Jang Ki-Yong

Jang Ki-yong (; born August 7, 1992) is a South Korean actor and model. He began his career in the modelling industry and debuted as an actor through a guest appearance on It's Okay, That's Love (2014). He gained popularity with Confession Couple (2017) and was cast in Come and Hug Me (2018), his first-ever lead role. Jang rose to prominence with Search: WWW (2019) and continued his streak with My Roommate Is a Gumiho (2021) and Now, We Are Breaking Up (2021–2022). Jang is also known for his roles in My Mister (2018), Born Again (2020). As an established model, Jang earned several awards including the "Fashion Model Award" at the 2014 Asia Model Awards and "Best Dressed Model" at the 2015 Korea's Best Dresser Swan Awards. His transition to acting earned him the accolades "Best New Actor (TV)" at the 2019 Baeksang Arts Awards, the "Excellence Award" at the 2018 MBC Drama Awards and more. Jang is also known for his endorsements with brands Estée Lauder, Lancôme, and Nivea Men. Life and career 1992–2011: Early life Born and raised in Ulsan, South Korea, Jang Ki-yong was born on August 7, 1992, and lived with his parents and older brother. Growing up, Jang developed an interest for fashion and photography. He saw a runway video from a fashion show starring Lee Soo-hyuk on the internet in his third year at amidst his deliberation of possible future career prospects for college. With his growth in enjoyment for magazines and pictorials, he soon wanted to become a model; however, due to familial expectations, he prepared for the college entrance exam during the second semester of high school. After revealing his dream career to his parents, they were initially reluctant and disapproved of his career choice. Eventually he convinced them to let him follow his dream, to which his father stated: "If you really like it and can do well, do it".