IU's full name is Lee Ji-eun, and she was born on May 16, 1993 in Songjeong-dong, Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.
She signed with LOEN Entertainment (now Kakao Entertainment) as a trainee in 2007 and made her debut as a singer in 2008 at the age of 15 with the EP "Lost and Found".
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IU is known for her unique and versatile vocal abilities, which allow her to seamlessly transition between various music genres including pop, ballad, R&B, and folk.
In 2010, she released her first studio album "Real" which was a commercial success, establishing her as one of the top solo artists in the K-pop industry.
IU is also an accomplished actress, having starred in several hit dramas such as "My Mister" (2018), "Hotel Del Luna" (2019), and "Scarlet Heart: Goryeo" (2016).
She is the youngest person to ever receive the prestigious Kumkang Culture Award, which recognizes outstanding achievements in the Korean entertainment industry.
IU is known for her strong work ethic and dedication to her craft, often writing and co-composing many of her own songs.
In 2021, she released her 5th studio album "Lilac", which showcased her growth as a mature and introspective artist.
IU has a strong social media presence, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, where she frequently interacts with her dedicated fanbase.
She has won numerous awards throughout her career, including multiple Melon Music Awards, Mnet Asian Music Awards, and Seoul Music Awards.
IU is considered a trendsetter in the K-pop industry, known for her unique fashion sense and ability to influence popular culture.