Clinical Spotlight: Hee Young Lee, MD (John)
What is your clinical specialty?
Orthopedic foot and ankle surgery.
Where did you go to school?
Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea.
What brought you to Premier Health?
After completing my fellowship training in Missouri and Iowa, I developed a deep appreciation for the Midwest and always hoped to return. When the opportunity arose to join Premier Health and Wright State University as a foot and ankle specialist, it felt like the right fit both professionally and personally. I was excited by the chance to return to the region, serve the community, and help build and grow a comprehensive foot and ankle program for patients throughout southwest Ohio.
Why did you choose medicine as a career?
I wanted to help people who are in pain or disabled. I also wanted to do tasks with my hands, with good results, which is satisfying to me. There is something about surgery that combines both of those things, the care and the craft, and that combination is what drew me in.
Who are the people who influenced and/or mentored you?
One of my most influential mentors has been Cesar de Cesar Netto, MD. Like me, he came to the United States from Brazil and built an exceptional career through determination, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning. He completed multiple fellowships and has become one of the leading figures in the field of foot and ankle surgery. Watching someone successfully navigate a similar path and achieve that level of excellence gave me the confidence to pursue my own goals. His example demonstrated that dedication and perseverance can create opportunities regardless of where you begin your journey.
What is one thing most people don't know about you?
Since I am new here, maybe for introduction it is better to share a bit more. I am from Korea, did fellowships in Missouri, Iowa, and Maryland, and practiced in upstate New York for the past three years before coming to Dayton. On a personal note, my wife and I met while attending the same university in Korea, although we studied different majors. We have two children, a son and a daughter, and are excited to begin this new chapter in Dayton and become part of the community.
Where is your hometown?
Seoul, Korea.
What, if any, sports team(s) do you cheer for?
LA Dodgers, because of Ohtani Shohei, and LAFC, because of Son Heung-min. I like watching players carry their countries with them onto a new stage. But now that I live in Dayton, I am becoming a Cincinnati Reds, Bengals, and Cincy FC fan too, so I suppose I root for two homes now.
What is the last book you read?
I don't see myself as a book lover, but I enjoy reading a great one, or listening to audiobooks. Recently, I listened to a Korean novel, published 60 years ago by a well-known Korean writer, which was thought provoking, the kind of story that stays with you after it ends.
What is your favorite song in your playlist?
Depends on my mood. I like to listen to classical music to slow down, but I also like motivating music when I need to get going for the day.
What is your favorite food?
Korean food, Japanese food, Mexican food. Different comfort foods depending on the day.
What is your favorite hobby?
Golf, which I picked up about four years ago, which is humbling, to say the least. Recently I picked up tennis too, for cardio exercise, so between the two I am staying busy and a little sore.
What is your favorite animal, and why?
Dogs. We have two dogs in Korea, whom I miss so much. They are adorable and loyal, and coming home to them is something I look forward to.
Where is your favorite vacation spot, and why?
Last year, for the first time, I visited Italy in Europe. It was wonderful, with great historical aspects, layered into everyday life in a way that stayed with me. I want to visit again.
Describe something (a thing, person, place, experience, etc.) for which you are especially thankful:
I am grateful to Premier leadership and colleagues for this opportunity to work at Premier, helping patients and serving the community, residents, and students.
Pick a side
iPhone or Android?
Android
Early bird or night owl?
Night Owl
Beach bum or mountain hiker?
Mountain Hiker
Dress shoes or tennis shoes?
Tennis Shoes
Paperback or e-reader?
Paperback
Coffee or tea?
Coffee
Cooking or baking?
Cooking
Sweet or salty?
Salty
Back to the August 2026 issue of Premier Pulse
