On the evening of December 16, Korean media reported that Lee Min-ho attended the VIP premiere of the film Made in Korea, starring Hyun Bin. While the actor was praised for his polite and friendly behavior towards journalists, public attention quickly shifted to something else: his noticeably changed appearance.
At the event, Lee Min-ho appeared with a noticeably fuller face, rounded cheeks and what some described as a subtle double chin. In several photos, online commenters also pointed out what appeared to be a less toned physique, including a slightly protruding midsection.
The change stood out even more when compared to older photos of the actor, known for his sharp jawline and classic “leading man” images in dramas like The Heirs and Boys Over Flowers.
As a result, some netizens admitted that they were momentarily shocked, and some even said that they struggled to recognize it at first glance.
Photos of the event quickly circulated in Korean online communities, sparking a wave of harsh comments:
- Is this really Lee Min-ho?
- He looks like a normal middle-aged man you would see on the street.
- This isn’t just a little weight gain.
- If he’s not careful, he might end up like Lee Jang-woo.
The comparison refers to actor Lee Jang-woo, who recently came under fire for significant weight gain after reportedly reaching nearly 100kg.
In an industry where male celebrities are often expected to maintain an extremely slim physique, Lee Min-ho’s appearance stands out even more. Many have pointed out that such visible weight gain is rare among high-class Korean actors, especially those with an established “visual icon” image.
While criticism dominated much of the discussion, some fans urged others to show restraint, pointing out that weight fluctuations can occur for many reasons, including health, personal commitments, or upcoming roles.
However, a significant portion of netizens have expressed hope that Lee Min-ho will return to his previous physique, citing not only aesthetic expectations but also concerns about his long-term health.
“It’s not just about looks,” one commenter wrote. “Let’s just hope he’s healthy.”
The actor continues to remain active in public shows and fans are watching closely to see what his next project and appearance might reveal.
Sources: Koreaboo
