Steven Yeun has come a long way from fighting zombies in The Walking Dead. With his versatile acting skills and a growing portfolio of critically acclaimed roles, he has firmly established himself as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. Whether it’s in indie dramas, blockbuster films, or voice acting, Yeun continues to impress audiences worldwide.
Now 41 years old (as of 2025), Steven Yeun has an estimated net worth of $5 million. From his humble beginnings as a struggling actor in Chicago to becoming an Oscar-nominated performer, his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
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Early Life & Journey to Acting
Born December 21, 1983, in Seoul, South Korea, Steven Yeun (real name: Yeun Sang-yeop) moved to Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada with his family before settling in Michigan, USA. His parents, Je and Jun Yeun, ran a beauty supply store in Detroit, and like many immigrant families, they had high expectations for their son’s career.
Yeun attended Kalamazoo College, where he majored in psychology with a focus on neuroscience. But his life took an unexpected turn when he discovered improv and theater, leading him to pursue acting full-time—much to his parents’ initial hesitation.
After graduating in 2005, he moved to Chicago, where he trained at the legendary Second City Improv before making the big leap to Los Angeles.
The Walking Dead: A Career-Defining Break
Steven Yeun’s big break came in 2010 when he was cast as Glenn Rhee in The Walking Dead. His charming yet fearless character became an instant fan favorite, and the show quickly became the highest-rated cable TV series in history.
For six seasons (2010-2016), Yeun’s Glenn played a crucial role in the series, evolving from a clever survivor to one of the most beloved characters. His shocking exit in season seven was one of the show’s most talked-about moments, proving the impact he had on audiences.
Expanding His Career: From Minari to Hollywood’s Elite
Leaving The Walking Dead wasn’t the end—it was the beginning of a new chapter for Steven Yeun. He took on diverse roles, proving his range as an actor.
- In 2017, he starred in Bong Joon-ho’s Okja and the action-horror film Mayhem.
- In 2018, he co-starred in Sorry to Bother You and the critically acclaimed South Korean thriller Burning, which earned him multiple Best Supporting Actor awards.
- In 2020, he produced and starred in A24’s Minari, a heartfelt immigrant drama that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor—making him the first Asian American man to receive this honor.
TV, Voice Acting & Business Ventures
Beyond live-action roles, Yeun has built a strong presence in voice acting. He has voiced characters in:
- The Legend of Korra
- Voltron: Legendary Defender
- Trollhunters
- Invincible (Amazon Prime’s hit animated superhero series)
His business ventures also include investing in his brother Brian’s restaurant, The Bun Shop, in Los Angeles’ Koreatown, blending Korean and Mediterranean flavors.
Personal Life & Family
Steven Yeun has been married to photographer Joana Park since 2016, and they have two children together. The couple leads a relatively private life in Los Angeles, staying out of Hollywood’s spotlight while focusing on family and career.
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