Where was Steven Yeun born? 'Beef' star's early years were truly globe-trotting

Yeun is known for making his mark in Hollywood, despite not fitting the showbiz idea of a leading man
UPDATED APR 4, 2023
Steven Yeun attends a A24 screening of his film (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)
Steven Yeun attends a A24 screening of his film (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Steven Yeun, widely recognized as Glenn Rhee from the horror series 'The Walking Dead,' continues to stick in viewers' minds. Steven made his debut in the first episode of the 11-season zombie series. Fans are now excited to see him back on screens with his upcoming comedy 'Beef' on Netflix.

In the 2017 horror-comedy 'Mayhem', Yeun transitioned from a significant supporting role to play a legitimate male lead. His work in the comedy-drama helped him become the first Asian-American actor to be nominated for the Academy Awards as Best Actor in 2021. So now the question is, do you know enough about this brilliant actor and his early life? Read below to find out.

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Steven Yeun's early life

In 1983, Steven Yeun was born in Seoul, South Korea. In 1988, his family emigrated to North America. He grew up in Troy and attended Troy High School, from where he graduated in 2001. He did not want to act, so he went to medical school and studied psychology at Kalamazoo College. After seeing a local live show while there, he was motivated to do stand-up comedy. Over his time in the Kalamazoo College theatre programme, he gradually discovered his love for performing. He came to Chicago and joined the comedic sketch troupe Stir Friday Night! after earning his bachelor degree in 2005. He relocated to Hollywood in 2009 to pursue his dream of being an actor and following his heart.

Steven Yeun secured roles in three commercials within a month of moving to Los Angeles. He also had a small cameo in the popular TV show 'Big Bang Theory.' Steven felt demoralized after he lost the lead role in an important ABC pilot to another actor. He did, however, succeed in his audition for 'The Walking Dead' at director Frank Darabont's office a few months later.

Steven Yeun attends the world premiere of Universal Pictures'
Steven Yeun attends the world premiere of Universal Pictures' "NOPE" at TCL Chinese Theatre (Photo by JC Olivera/Getty Images)

Steven Yeun makes history at the Oscars

Steven Yeun's role in 'Minari' (2020) launched him into the orbit of Hollywood's A-listers. He became the first Asian-American actor to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In order to prepare for the emotional drama, he sought inspiration from his immigrant heritage. The movie made $15.5 million at the box office and won awards at all the major film festivals.

The well-known 'Walking Dead' actor was included on the yearly list of the 100 Most Important Persons (2021). He shared the honourable title with Simone Biles, Joe Biden, Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, Prince Harry, and the Duchess of Sussex. The Oscar-nominated actor gained recognition for this feat, demonstrating his talent as a Hollywood star who also had box office appeal.

'Beef' is set to be released on Netflix on April 6, 2023, starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong.

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