On the evening of December 16, Korean media outlet 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 demeanor toward reporters, public attention quickly shifted to something else entirely his noticeably changed appearance.
At the event, Lee Min-ho appeared with a visibly 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” visuals in dramas such as The Heirs and Boys Over Flowers.
As a result, some netizens admitted they were momentarily shocked with a few even saying they struggled to recognize him at first glance.
Photos from the event quickly circulated across Korean online communities, triggering a wave of harsh comments:
- Is this really Lee Min-ho?
- He looks like a regular middle-aged man you’d see on the street.
- This isn’t just a little weight gain.
- If he’s not careful, he could end up like Lee Jang-woo.
The comparison refers to actor Lee Jang-woo, who recently faced criticism for significant weight gain after reportedly reaching nearly 100 kg.
In an industry where male celebrities are often expected to maintain extremely lean physiques, Lee Min-ho’s appearance stood out even more. Many pointed out that such visible weight gain is rare among top-tier Korean actors, especially those with an established “visual icon” image.
While criticism dominated much of the discussion, some fans urged others to show restraint, noting that weight fluctuations can happen for many reasons including health, personal schedules, or upcoming roles.
Still, a significant portion of netizens expressed hope that Lee Min-ho would return to his previous physique, citing not only aesthetic expectations but also concerns for his long-term health.
“It’s not just about looks,” one commenter wrote. “We just hope he’s healthy.”
The actor continues to remain active in public schedules, and fans are watching closely to see what his next project and next appearance may reveal.
Sources: Koreaboo