More than two decades later, old photos of Lee Hyori cheering for the South Korean national team are going viral again, reminding fans why she has long been considered one of the most iconic stars in Korean entertainment.
As South Korea kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, a series of throwback photos showing Lee Hyori supporting the national team during the 2004 Athens Olympics unexpectedly resurfaced online. The images, originally taken during the Athens Games, once again spread rapidly across Asian online communities, attracting thousands of shares and comments. Despite the lower image quality than modern high-definition photos, Lee Hyori’s beauty and charisma continue to amaze fans.
At that time, Lee Hyori was 25 years old. Dressed in colors inspired by the South Korea national team, she was seen cheering enthusiastically from the stands, waving flags and passionately supporting the athletes. Although her face still carried the youthful charm of her twenties, her confident gaze and relaxed aura already suggested the star power that would define her career. Without elaborate styling or glamorous outfits, it was her natural confidence, energetic spirit and natural beauty that captivated fans. The resurfaced images once again highlighted why the public crowned her “Sexy Queen” – a title built not only on appearance, but also on confidence and vitality.
Lee Hyori is more than just a singer: she is considered a pop culture phenomenon in South Korea. With hit songs, a magnetic stage presence and an unforgettable image, she became one of the most prominent female celebrities of her era. These Olympic support photos from over 20 years ago proved once again that her allure has never completely faded.
Born in 1979 in Cheongwon, South Korea, Lee Hyori debuted in 1998 as a member of the legendary first-generation girl group Fin.KL. After the break from the group’s activities, she launched her solo career in 2003 with the album Stylish…, which catapulted her to stardom thanks to the huge success 10 Minutes. The success sparked what became known as “Hyori Syndrome” a nationwide phenomenon that helped her become one of the highest-paid female celebrities in Korea at the time.
Lee Hyori continued to find success with subsequent albums, while also branching out into acting, hosting, and variety television. She has become especially beloved through popular shows such as Family tripwhile pioneering a bold, confident image that would influence generations of female K-pop idols.
In her personal life, Lee Hyori married musician Lee Sang Soon in 2013 after years of dating. The couple became known for their simple, nature-focused lifestyle and love of animals. Even as she approaches her late 40s, Lee Hyori continues to maintain a unique charm and remains an inspiration for multiple generations. The renewed popularity of these photos not only brings back fond memories, but also reinforces her enduring status as Korea’s timeless woman “Sexy queen.”
Sources: K14
