'Squid Game' star Lee Jung Jae's journey: From Seoul streets to Times Square

Ever imagined what it's like to be stopped for selfies in Mumbai, Paris, or even a random airport in Brazil? That's Lee Jung Jae's reality now, thanks to the

Squid Game

tidal wave. In his own words, "Wherever I go, people recognize me. It's honestly so surprising and kind of surreal." He's not exaggerating-after Squid Game Season 3 dropped, the show hit number one in a jaw-dropping 93 countries. The world's got Squid Game fever, and Lee Jung Jae is at the center of it all. He even joked about how, as Asians, we often hear that Westerners can't tell Asian faces apart. But now? "They spot me instantly, even if I'm just walking by on the street. That's when I realize just how massive Squid Game has become," he said, still sounding a bit stunned. Imagine your local rickshaw driver recognizing a K-drama star-yep, that's the level we're talking about.Squid Game: Not Just a Show, But a Cultural Tsunami

What's wild is that even people who haven't watched Squid Game know about it. It's become a global pop culture reference, like Harry Potter or Game of Thrones. Lee Jung Jae pointed out that Squid Game has made Korean content a global obsession. "People start with Squid Game, then end up watching more K-dramas. It's boosted interest in all things Korean-music, food, fashion, you name it," he explained. And honestly, who hasn't fallen down a

K-content

rabbit hole at 2 a.m.?

For Indian youth, this is like when Sacred Games or Mirzapur suddenly made Indian stories cool on the world stage. But with Squid Game, it's on steroids-K-content is now everywhere, and Lee Jung Jae is the face of that revolution.Fame Hits Different When It's Global Being famous in your own country is one thing, but being recognized everywhere is next-level. Lee Jung Jae admits he still can't fully process it. "It's a huge experience. I'm just grateful for all the love and attention. Sometimes I wish I could take it all in a bit more slowly," he shared. He's gone from being a respected actor in Korea to one of the most famous Koreans on the planet-no exaggeration. And here's the kicker: this fame isn't just about him. Lee hopes the Squid Game effect keeps the doors open for more Korean creators and actors, so the world keeps tuning in to what Korea has to offer. "I hope this wave doesn't fade away and that it brings good changes to not just culture, but all industries," he said, sounding like a true ambassador for K-culture.