Lee Ki-taek, born on November 15, 1982, is a widely celebrated South Korean actor and television personality whose career has left a lasting mark on the entertainment world. With his striking appearance, undeniable talent, and an impressive range in acting, Lee Ki-taek has risen to become one of the most recognizable figures in South Korea’s entertainment industry. Over the years, he’s captured the hearts of audiences not only domestically but also across the globe, thanks to his compelling performances in both film and television dramas.

Making his acting debut back in 2006, Lee Ki-taek steadily built a strong portfolio of work that showcased his depth and adaptability as a performer. His big break came with the immensely popular drama Secret Garden in 2010, where he played the role of Secretary Kim—a character that became iconic for its perfect blend of humor and charm. It was this performance that truly put Lee Ki-taek on the map, earning him widespread praise and establishing his reputation for impeccable comedic timing. Since then, Lee Ki-taek has continued to take on diverse roles in successful projects, consistently proving his ability to bring authenticity and nuance to every character he portrays.

Beyond acting, Lee Ki-taek has also made a name for himself as a charismatic television host. He’s appeared regularly on various talk shows and variety programs, where his natural wit, engaging communication style, and relaxed demeanor shine through. Whether he’s leading conversations or participating in lighthearted segments, Lee Ki-taek’s presence adds a unique energy that viewers find both relatable and entertaining. This dual success in acting and hosting highlights just how versatile Lee Ki-taek really is, solidifying his status as a multi-talented star in the Korean entertainment scene.

What sets Lee Ki-taek apart isn’t just his talent—it’s also his dedication, professionalism, and relentless work ethic. These qualities have earned him numerous awards and nominations throughout his career, including several accolades for Best Supporting Actor. Critics and fans alike respect Lee Ki-taek not only for his on-screen brilliance but also for the effort and integrity he brings behind the scenes. His ability to fully immerse himself in a role, no matter how complex, continues to make him a standout figure in the industry.

Now, when we look at Lee Ki-taek’s portrayal of a character in the critically acclaimed film Parasite, we can analyze certain psychological traits that offer deeper insight into his on-screen persona. Based on the MBTI framework, the character Lee Ki-taek plays aligns closely with the ISTP personality type—Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving.

For starters, the character exhibits clear introverted tendencies. He’s quiet, introspective, and often keeps his emotions under wraps. Rather than seeking out social interaction, he seems more comfortable in solitude, particularly in the hidden spaces of the basement where much of his story unfolds. This preference for isolation and internal processing is a hallmark of introversion, fitting well within the ISTP profile.

Next, there’s a strong emphasis on sensing—being highly aware of the physical environment and responding to real-time details. The character meticulously observes the routines of the wealthy Park family, using these observations to plan and execute his actions with precision. His practical mindset and attention to detail allow him to adapt quickly, making split-second decisions based on what’s happening around him rather than abstract theories.

His thinking function is equally prominent. Lee Ki-taek’s character approaches problems logically and methodically. When faced with challenges, he doesn’t react emotionally; instead, he assesses risks, weighs outcomes, and chooses the most efficient path forward. This rational, solution-oriented mindset is a key trait of the thinking aspect in ISTP personalities.

Lastly, the perceiving trait comes through in his spontaneous and flexible nature. He doesn’t rely heavily on rigid plans but instead adjusts his behavior as situations evolve. Whether it’s improvising during tense moments or shifting strategies when things go off track, Lee Ki-taek’s character demonstrates a fluid, adaptive approach to life—another signature of the perceiving function.

Putting it all together, the character portrayed by Lee Ki-taek in Parasite strongly reflects the ISTP type. Understanding this personality framework helps us appreciate the motivations, behaviors, and decision-making patterns that drive his actions throughout the film.

As for the Enneagram, assigning a precise type requires careful consideration, especially since we’re analyzing a fictional character. Still, based on the narrative and behavioral cues, Lee Ki-taek’s character shows notable alignment with Enneagram Type 4—the Individualist, sometimes known as The Artist. Let’s explore why.

First, there’s a deep yearning for identity and authenticity. The character constantly grapples with who he is in a society that marginalizes him. He resists conformity and longs for recognition, wanting to be seen not just as part of the lower class but as someone with value, skill, and individuality.

Second, his emotional depth is unmistakable. From quiet despair to sudden bursts of anger, the character experiences feelings intensely. He’s profoundly affected by inequality and injustice, which fuels much of his inner turmoil. This emotional richness is a defining feature of Type 4 individuals.

Third, creativity plays a crucial role in how he navigates his circumstances. Though his methods are deceptive, there’s an artistry in the way he and his family infiltrate the Park household. Each role they assume, each lie they tell—it’s almost like a performance, a survival strategy laced with ingenuity.

Fourth, there’s a persistent sense of alienation. Despite being physically close to wealth and privilege, he remains emotionally and socially excluded. This feeling of being an outsider amplifies his resentment and desire to challenge the system that keeps him down.

And finally, while not overtly dominant, there are subtle signs of envy—envy not out of malice, but out of longing. He sees what others have and wonders why it’s out of reach for him and his family. This ache for something more is central to the Type 4 experience.

Of course, it’s important to remember that any Enneagram analysis of a fictional character like Lee Ki-taek from Parasite is interpretive. Without access to the full psychological makeup of a real person, our conclusions remain speculative. That said, the evidence suggests a strong resonance with Type 4 traits—making it a plausible, though not definitive, classification.

All in all, whether we’re talking about the real-life Lee Ki-taek—the accomplished actor and entertainer—or the complex character he portrays in Parasite—layered, strategic, and deeply human—one thing is clear: Lee Ki-taek continues to captivate audiences, inspire discussion, and leave a lasting impression across different dimensions of storytelling.