Lee Min Ho: 18 Years of Reigning as a Hallyu King

Today marks a monumental milestone for Korean actor Lee Min Ho and his legion of fans worldwide. Furthermore, his 18th anniversary since stepping onto the acting scene!

His agency MYM Entertainment commemorated the day with this post on Instagram:

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A post shared by MYM엔터테인먼트 (@myment_official)

Lee Min Ho’s journey began in 2006 with the drama “Secret Campus,” but it was his portrayal of Gu Jun-pyo in the smash-hit series “Boys Over Flowers” in 2009 that catapulted him to global superstardom. He even won the Best New Actor Award at the Baeksang Arts Awards in 2009 for his stellar performance in the show. The role of the spoilt yet kind “chaebol” heir not only stole hearts worldwide. However, also introduced countless viewers to the captivating world of Korean dramas. Many fans fondly remember “Boys Over Flowers” as their gateway to the rich tapestry of K-dramas. Besides, forever etching Lee Min Ho’s name in the hearts of Hallyu enthusiasts. If you haven’t watched this show, are you really a K-drama fan?

Boys Over Flowers (2009)

This iconic drama is what launched Lee Min Ho into superstardom. It’s a classic Cinderella story with a wealthy playboy, Gu Jun-Pyo (Lee Min Ho). Moreover, who falls for a poor but spirited girl, Geum Jan-Di (Gu Hye-Sun). It’s full of romance, comedy, and the classic rich-boy-poor-girl trope that many K-dramas are known for.

City Hunter (2011)

This drama showcases Lee Min Ho’s action hero side. He plays Lee Yoon-Sung, a man raised to become a skilled human weapon to avenge his father’s death. Working as an IT expert in the day and a vigilante by night. Besides, he falls in love with Kim Na-Na (Park Min-Young). Furthermore, a prosecutor who gets in his way.

The Heirs (2013)

Another classic K-drama, The Heirs is a story about the wealthy and privileged attending an exclusive high school. Kim Tan (Lee Min Ho) is the heir to a big corporation who falls for Cha Eun-Sang (Park Shin-Hye), a hardworking but underprivileged girl. This drama explores the themes of class difference, love, and friendship.

The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016)

This fantasy romance tells the story of a mermaid, Shim Cheong (Jun Ji-Hyun), who travels to the present day and meets a con artist, Heo Jun-Jae (Lee Min Ho). As they navigate their different worlds, they discover a connection from their past lives.

P.S.: The My Sassy Girl actress will be making a comeback after a 3-year break, with upcoming spy drama Polaris.

The King: Eternal Monarch (2020)

This drama takes viewers on a genre-bending ride to a parallel world. Lee Min Ho plays Lee Gon, a Korean emperor who tries to close the door between his world. Moreover, the world of a modern-day detective, Jung Tae-Eul (Kim Go-Eun). Filled with action, fantasy, and romance, this drama keeps you guessing until the very end.

This year, he’s set to return to our screens with a brand new rom-com titled “Ask the Stars” and a highly anticipated film comeback after nearly eight years with “Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint.”

His unwavering dedication to his craft over the years has solidified his position as a leading figure in the Korean Wave. As Lee Min Ho celebrates 18 remarkable years in the industry. However, one thing remains certain: he will always be considered one of the earliest Hallyu Kings! Here’s to many more years of LMH captivating audiences around the world! Chughahaeyo!