A light emitting diode (LED) circuit includes first and second terminals, a forward circuit including a number of LEDs electrically connected in series, and a forward steering diode electrically connected in series with the LEDs. The series combination of the forward steering diode and the LEDs is electrically connected between the first and second terminals, and is structured to conduct current in a first direction with respect to the first and second terminals in order to illuminate the LEDs. A reverse circuit includes a resistor, and a reverse steering diode electrically connected in series with the resistor. The series combination of the reverse steering diode and the resistor is electrically connected between the first and second terminals, and is structured to conduct current in an opposite second direction with respect to the first and second terminals such that the LEDs are not illuminated. An LED drive circuit is also disclosed.
