Leeteuk

Who Is Leeteuk?

Leeteuk is the leader of the legendary South Korean boy group Super Junior, one of the most influential acts of the Hallyu wave. Born Park Jeong-su on July 1, 1983, in Seoul, South Korea, Leeteuk has spent more than two decades guiding Super Junior through lineup changes, military enlistments, and an ever-shifting industry, all while building a parallel career as a beloved television host and radio personality.

Early Life and Trainee Days

Leeteuk grew up as the youngest child in his family. His parents separated when he was a teenager, and by his own account, those years at home were difficult. A trip to Myeongdong with his older sister, actress Park In-young, changed his path: a talent scout spotted him and encouraged him to audition for SM Entertainment. He passed the audition around age 13 and became a trainee, going on to have one of the longest training periods of any Super Junior member. Before Super Junior existed, he was briefly attached to a planned rival group called Smile alongside fellow trainee Donghae.

Debut and Leadership of Super Junior

Leeteuk debuted on November 6, 2005, as the leader of Super Junior (originally SuperJunior05), a rotational project group that evolved into a fixed 13-member lineup and later a 10-member powerhouse. As leader, he has been the steady hand holding the group together through the departures of Han Geng, Kibum, and Kangin, as well as members’ military service. He is also the leader of sub-units Super Junior-T and Super Junior-H.

Broadcasting Career

Beyond music, Leeteuk built an extensive career as an MC and radio DJ. He hosted the long-running radio show “Kiss The Radio” with Eunhyuk, took over segments of “Strong Heart” and “Star King,” and became a familiar face on variety staples. He also appeared on “We Got Married,” paired on-screen with actress Kang So-ra, and joined “Hello Baby” as a temporary father figure alongside members of girl group Sistar.

Military Service and Later Activities

Leeteuk enlisted for mandatory military service on October 30, 2012, training at the 306 Reserve Battalion in Uijeongbu before serving in an active-duty capacity, and returned to group activities afterward. He continues to lead Super Junior through world tours, comeback promotions, and variety appearances, remaining one of the most recognizable and respected leaders in K-pop.

Personal Life

Leeteuk is known for his warm, caring personality on and off camera, earning him the nickname “Angel Without Wings.” He is close with his older sister, Park In-young, and has spoken candidly about his difficult childhood, which shaped his empathetic public persona. He is an animal lover and has a pet dog named Shimkoong, and he enjoys playing the piano and saxophone in his free time.