Lee Min-Ho is one of the most celebrated actors in the Korean entertainment industry. With his undeniable charm, impressive acting skills, and captivating on-screen presence, he has won millions of hearts around the world. His performances in K-dramas have not only defined his career but have also helped elevate South Korean entertainment to a global level.
What makes Lee Min-Ho stand out is his versatility. From portraying wealthy, arrogant heirs in romantic dramas to taking on action-packed roles in thrillers, he has proven his ability to adapt and evolve as an actor. His international appeal has made him one of the most sought-after TV series stars, and his influence continues to shape new releases in the industry.
Beyond acting, Lee Min-Ho’s impact extends to fashion, advertising, and social activism. He is more than just a performer—he is a cultural icon whose work has left an indelible mark on the genre of K-dramas.
Who is Lee Min-Ho?
Lee Min-Ho is a South Korean actor, model, and singer known for his roles in some of the best Korean dramas of all time. Born on June 22, 1987, in Seoul, South Korea, he initially dreamed of becoming a professional footballer. Unfortunately, an injury forced him to reconsider his path, and he turned to acting instead.
This career shift turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as it led him to become one of the biggest names in the K-drama industry. With his tall stature, striking looks, and undeniable talent, he quickly gained attention and started appearing in various TV series and films. Over the years, he has established himself as an actor who can dominate any role, from romantic leads to action heroes.
Overview of Lee Min-Ho
- Full Name (Hangul): 이민호 (Lee Min-Ho)
- Nicknames: Minho, Hallyu King
- Birthdate: June 22, 1987
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea
- Height: 187 cm
- Weight: 75 kg
- Blood Type: A
The History of Lee Min-Ho’s Career in K-Drama
Like many aspiring actors, Lee Min-Ho started with small roles in dramas. His early career was filled with minor appearances, but he never lost sight of his goal. His first official leading role came in Mackerel Run (2007), though it did not gain much traction.
Then came 2009, the year that changed everything. He was cast as Gu Jun-Pyo in Boys Over Flowers, a drama that became a cultural phenomenon. His portrayal of the arrogant but charming chaebol heir won over audiences and launched him into superstardom. The drama was not just a hit in South Korea—it gained massive popularity across Asia, Europe, and even North America.
From that moment on, Lee Min-Ho was no longer just another actor; he was a K-drama sensation. He followed up his success with roles in Personal Taste (2010) and City Hunter (2011), the latter of which showed his ability to take on action-packed roles.
In 2013, he starred in The Heirs, another romantic drama that became a best Korean drama of its time. His performance as Kim Tan, a wealthy high school student, further cemented his reputation as a top actor. The drama’s success proved that he was not just a one-hit wonder—he was here to stay.
Over the years, Lee Min-Ho has taken on roles that challenge him. From playing a time-traveling warrior in Faith (2012) to a con artist in Legend of the Blue Sea (2016), he has continuously reinvented himself. His latest project, The King: Eternal Monarch (2020), showcased his ability to navigate complex narratives and fantasy elements.
Now, with his upcoming new release, When The Stars Gossips (2025), he is set to break new ground once again.
Movies and Dramas of Lee Min-Ho
Movies
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Public Enemy Returns | Jung Ha-Yeon | Supporting Role |
| 2008 | Our School’s E.T. | Oh Sang-Hoon | Supporting Role |
| 2015 | Gangnam Blues | Kim Jong-Dae | Lead Role |
| 2016 | Bounty Hunters | Yi San | Lead Role |
Television Dramas
| Year | Title | Role | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Sharp | Guest Appearance | KBS2 |
| 2004 | Nonstop 5 | Guest Appearance | MBC |
| 2005 | Love Hymn | Supporting Role | MBC |
| 2006 | Secret Campus | Park Du-Hyun | EBS |
| 2007 | Mackerel Run | Cha Gong-Chan | SBS |
| 2008 | I Am Sam | Heo Mo-Se | KBS2 |
| 2008 | Get Up | Min Wook-Gi | MBC |
| 2009 | Boys Over Flowers | Gu Jun-Pyo | KBS2 |
| 2010 | Personal Taste | Jeon Jin-Ho | MBC |
| 2011 | City Hunter | Lee Yoon-Sung | SBS |
| 2012 | Faith | Choi Young | SBS |
| 2013 | The Heirs | Kim Tan | SBS |
| 2016 | Legend of the Blue Sea | Heo Joon-Jae / Kim Dam-Ryung | SBS |
| 2020 | The King: Eternal Monarch | Emperor Lee Gon | SBS/Netflix |
| 2025 | When the Stars Gossip | Gong Ryong | TVING (Upcoming) |
Lee Min-Ho’s Role in the Korean Entertainment Industry
Lee Min-Ho is more than just an actor—he is a trendsetter. His influence extends beyond K-dramas, shaping fashion trends, inspiring new actors, and drawing international attention to South Korean culture.
His presence in the entertainment world has made TV series featuring him some of the most-watched globally. His dramas are streamed on platforms like Netflix, bringing Korean storytelling to a worldwide audience.
Outside acting, Lee Min-Ho is also a philanthropist. He founded “PROMIZ,” a social organization that raises funds for various environmental and humanitarian causes. His work both on and off the screen has solidified his status as an industry leader.
Awards and Nominations
| Award | Year | Category | Nominee/Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baeksang Arts Awards | 2009 | Best New Actor (TV) | Boys Over Flowers | Won |
| Seoul International Drama Awards | 2009 | Netizen Popularity Award | Boys Over Flowers | Won |
| Korean Drama Awards | 2011 | Top Excellence Award (Actor) | City Hunter | Won |
| SBS Drama Awards | 2011 | Top Excellence Award (Actor) | City Hunter | Won |
| Baeksang Arts Awards | 2012 | Most Popular Actor (TV) | City Hunter | Won |
| Korean Drama Awards | 2013 | Grand Prize (Daesang) | The Heirs | Won |
| SBS Drama Awards | 2013 | Top Excellence Award (Actor) | The Heirs | Won |
| Baeksang Arts Awards | 2014 | Most Popular Actor (TV) | The Heirs | Won |
| Blue Dragon Film Awards | 2015 | Best New Actor | Gangnam Blues | Won |
| Korean Drama Awards | 2015 | Hallyu Star Award | Gangnam Blues | Won |
| SBS Drama Awards | 2016 | Top Excellence Award (Actor) | Legend of the Blue Sea | Won |
| APAN Star Awards | 2020 | Top Excellence Award (Actor) | The King: Eternal Monarch | Won |
Facts about Lee Min-Ho
- He initially wanted to be a football player.
- He is one of the highest-paid actors in South Korea.
- He has over 30 million followers on Instagram.
- His dramas have been translated into multiple languages.
- He once went on a world tour to meet fans.
Lee Min-Ho’s legacy in the K-drama industry is undeniable. His journey from an aspiring actor to an international star is inspiring, and his work continues to influence new releases and upcoming talents.
Resources
- AsianWiki. Lee Min-Ho
- IMDb. Lee Min-Ho Awards
- MyDramaList. Lee Min-Ho Profile
- OneTVAsia. Lee Min-Ho Biography
- KProfiles. Lee Min-Ho Profile