Lee Jin-ki, better known by his stage name Onew, is a South Korean singer and actor. Born in Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi-do, Onew was discovered at the 2006 SM Academy Casting and signed the contract with SM Entertainment the day after his audition. He debuted as one of the lead vocalists and leader of boy group Shinee in May 2008, who went on to become one of the best-selling artists in South Korea.
Aside from group activities, Onew has participated in various television dramas, mostly known for his role of Baek Su in JTBCs sitcom Welcome to Royal Villa (2013) and the cardiothoracic resident Lee Chi-hoon in the popular KBS2 drama Descendants of the Sun (2016). He made his solo debut on December 5, 2018 with the release of his first extended play, Voice, five days before his military conscription on December 10, 2018. The album peaked at number two on the South Korea's Gaon Album Chart.
Onew was discovered at the 2006 SM Academy Casting. He received great appreciation from Lee Soo-man, SM Entertainment's founder, at Girls' Generation's debut showcase. Lee Soo-man noticed him and wanted to hear him sing during a one time on the spot audition. He signed the contract with the company the day after he auditioned. In 2008, he was chosen as the leader of the group Shinee, and the five member boy group debuted on May 25, 2008 on SBS' Inkigayo.