Steven Yeun, born on December 21, 1983, is a 41-year-old Korean-American actor and producer with a net worth of $8 million as of 2025. Best known for his role as Glenn Rhee in The Walking Dead, Yeun has built a remarkable career in film and television, earning an Oscar nomination for Minari. He has been married to photographer Joana Pak since 2016, and they have two children. This article explores Yeun’s age, net worth, married life, salary, dating history, and recent career milestones, offering fresh insights into his journey and influence.
Early Life and Background: Steven Yeun’s Age and Roots
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Steven Yeun, now 41, moved to Canada and later Michigan, USA, with his family at a young age. Growing up in a Korean-American household, he navigated cultural duality, which later shaped his authentic storytelling. After earning a psychology degree from Kalamazoo College in 2005, Yeun discovered his passion for acting through improv, a pivot that defined his career. His multicultural background fuels his commitment to diverse roles, resonating with audiences globally.
Steven Yeun’s Net Worth in 2025: A Financial Overview
As of 2025, Steven Yeun’s net worth is estimated at $8 million, driven by his acting, producing, and strategic investments. His breakout role in The Walking Dead earned him $60,000 to $250,000 per episode by later seasons, contributing significantly to his wealth. Films like Minari and Nope, along with his Emmy-winning role in Beef, have bolstered his earnings. Yeun’s real estate investments, including a $3.3 million Pasadena home, and his former stake in The Bun Shop restaurant highlight his financial acumen. Unlike many peers, Yeun avoids heavy brand endorsements, focusing on meaningful projects.
Career Highlights: From The Walking Dead to Hollywood Stardom
Yeun’s career trajectory is a masterclass in versatility. His role as Glenn Rhee in The Walking Dead (2010–2016) made him a household name, with his character’s emotional depth earning fan adoration. Post-Walking Dead, Yeun starred in critically acclaimed films like Burning (2018), which won him Best Supporting Actor awards, and Minari (2020), earning him a historic Oscar nomination as the first Asian-American Best Actor nominee. His role in Beef (2023) showcased his ability to blend humor and drama, securing an Emmy. In 2025, Yeun’s performance in Love Me alongside Kristen Stewart and his upcoming role in Mickey 17 with Robert Pattinson signal his continued rise. “I choose scripts that reflect something true about society,” Yeun told Vanity Fair, emphasizing his intentional approach to storytelling.
Recent Projects and Future Prospects
Yeun’s 2025 projects underscore his range. Love Me, a sci-fi romance, premiered at Sundance 2024, exploring love in a post-human world. Mickey 17, directed by Bong Joon-ho, is set for a March 2025 release and is anticipated to be a box-office hit. Yeun’s role as The Sentry in the MCU’s Thunderbolts marks his entry into blockbuster territory, potentially boosting his net worth further. His voice work in Invincible continues to draw praise, with Season 3 expected in 2026.
Married Life: Steven Yeun and Joana Pak
Steven Yeun’s married life with Joana Pak, a photographer, began in 2016 after years of dating. The couple, introduced in Chicago in 2009, shares a deep bond rooted in their Korean heritage. They have two children: a son, Jude Malcolm (born 2017), and a daughter (born 2019). Yeun values privacy, rarely sharing family details, but has spoken about fatherhood’s impact: “It’s reshaped how I approach work and life,” he shared in a Martha Stewart Weddings interview. Their low-key lifestyle in Los Angeles reflects a balance between fame and family.
Dating History: Before Joana Pak
Before his marriage, Yeun’s dating life was private, with no confirmed relationships beyond Joana Pak. Rumors of a romance with The Walking Dead co-star Lauren Cohan were debunked, as their chemistry was purely on-screen. Yeun’s focus on career over public relationships kept his personal life out of the tabloids, a rarity in Hollywood.
Salary Breakdown: How Steven Yeun Earns
Yeun’s salary has evolved with his career. Early in The Walking Dead, he earned $40,000 per episode, rising to $250,000 by Season 7. His film roles, like Minari and Nope, likely commanded $500,000 to $1 million per project, based on industry standards for Oscar-nominated actors. Beef earned him a reported $700,000 for the series, plus bonuses from awards. Voice acting in Invincible and endorsements add smaller but steady income streams. My analysis, based on industry trends, suggests Yeun’s strategic role choices prioritize long-term growth over short-term payouts.
Unique Insights: Yeun’s Impact on Representation
Yeun’s journey isn’t just about net worth or salary; it’s about breaking barriers. As the first Asian-American Oscar nominee for Best Actor, he’s reshaped Hollywood’s narrative around Asian representation. His choice of roles—often reflecting immigrant experiences—challenges stereotypes. “I want to tell stories that make people feel seen,” Yeun said in an AnOther interview. His advocacy extends off-screen, supporting diversity initiatives and mentoring young Asian-American actors, a contribution rarely highlighted in other articles.
Steven Yeun Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yeun Sang-yeop |
| Stage Name | Steven Yeun |
| Date of Birth | December 21, 1983 |
| Age | 41 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Seoul, South Korea |
| Nationality | Korean-American |
| Occupation | Actor, Producer, Voice Actor |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Psychology, Kalamazoo College (2005) |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Weight | 150 lbs (68 kg) |
| Spouse | Joana Pak (married 2016) |
| Children | Jude Malcolm (son, 2017), Daughter (2019) |
| Parents | Young Hwan Yeun, Heeja Yeun |
| Sibling | Brian Yeun |
| Net Worth | $8 million (2025 estimate) |
| Breakthrough Role | Glenn Rhee, The Walking Dead |
| Notable Films | Minari, Burning, Nope, Okja |
| Awards | Emmy (2023, Beef), Oscar Nominee (2021, Minari) |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter |
Recent Updates and Future Outlook
In 2025, Yeun’s career continues to soar. His role in Mickey 17 is generating buzz, with early screenings praising his chemistry with Pattinson. Fan reactions on Twitter highlight excitement for his MCU debut. Yeun’s producing ventures, focusing on underrepresented stories, position him as a creative force. With a net worth poised to grow and a commitment to impactful roles, Yeun’s influence will shape Hollywood for years.
For more on Yeun’s career, visit his Wikipedia page or follow him on Instagram.
