Actor Lee Sung Min surprised fans by appearing looking much slimmer, leading many to wonder if he was facing health issues.
It has now been confirmed that the actor intentionally lost more than 10 kilograms (22 pounds) to prepare for his role in the upcoming film “Ode to My Father 2.” The transformation gained attention on July 13, when “Dazed Korea” shared a behind-the-scenes video from Lee Sung Min’s August cover photoshoot on Instagram.
According to The Chosun, the magazine jokingly referenced his role as Education Minister Choi Kang Seok in the Netflix series “Teach You a Lesson,” writing, “Whoever stops filming the August edition will get a lesson.” He further added, “Minister of Education Choi Kang Seok has arrived at Dazed’s photoshoot. Anyone who interferes with his filming will be dealt with thoroughly.”
During the fashion shoot, Lee Sung Min confidently modeled several styles, including cardigans, pleated skirts, and light blue shirts.
While many admired how effortlessly she wore the daring outfits, most viewers focused on her surprising physical change. His sharper jawline and slim frame meant many said they could hardly recognize him.
Lee Sung Min’s 10kg Transformation Explained
Fans quickly filled the comments section with both praise and concerns. Some admired the hard work behind her transformation, while others feared she had lost too much weight in a short time.
The sudden change has sparked online speculation that the veteran actor may be experiencing health problems. However, Lee Sung Min had already shared the real reason for his appearance during a previous commercial on the YouTube variety show “Pinggyego.”
He explained that he deliberately lost about 10 kilograms to fully portray his character in “Ode to My Father 2,” AllKPop reported.
Once fans learned that weight loss was part of his acting preparation, many expressed support and encouraged him to stay healthy while filming.
The sequel continues the story of the 2014 hit film “Ode to My Father,” which followed key moments in modern Korean history.
The new film will explore subsequent events, including the 1987 June Democratic Uprising, the 1992 Los Angeles riots, the launch of South Korea’s civilian government in 1993, the 1997 Asian financial crisis, and the 2002 FIFA World Cup jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan.
Lee Sung Min plays Sung Min, a former miner who worked in Germany and later becomes a devoted father willing to sacrifice everything for his family.
