Autobiography of Lee Min-ho

Lee Min Ho (Korean: 이민호; Hanja: 李敏鎬, born June 22, 1987) is a renowned South Korean actor, singer, and model. He gained widespread fame with his role as Gu Jun-pyo in “Boys Over Flowers” (2009), earning him the Best New Actor – Television trophy at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards. His other notable works include television series “City Hunter” (2011), “The Heirs” (2013), “The Legend of the Blue Sea” (2016), and “The King: Eternal Monarch” (2020), as well as films “Gangnam Blues” (2015) and “Bounty Hunters” (2016). In 2022, he starred in the Apple TV+ period drama “Pachinko,” based on the novel of the same name. The success of Lee’s television career established him as a top Hallyu star, making him the most followed South Korean actor on social media.

Early Life

Lee Min Ho was born on June 22, 1987, in Heukseok-dong, Dongjak District, Seoul. Raised by Buddhist parents, he is the younger of two children. During his childhood, Lee initially hoped to become a professional football player. While attending Namseong Elementary School, he was selected for the junior football class of manager and ex-professional player Cha Bum-kun. However, an injury during fifth grade put an end to his aspirations. By his first year at Danggok High School, Lee had already turned his interests to acting and modeling.

Discovering Acting

Lee’s interest in acting began in high school. After posing for a few magazines, he met the future president of Starhaus Entertainment by chance. His professional acting career began after this encounter, and he signed with the agency in 2005. Lee started auditioning and landed minor roles in several television shows such as “Romance” (2002), “Nonstop” (2000–2006), and “Recipe of Love” (2005). His official debut role was in the EBS series “Secret Campus” (2006).

Breaking into the Industry

Lee’s early career faced several challenges. Initially, he went by the stage name Lee Min because his agency thought his birth name was too ordinary. However, as his stage name was pronounced and written in the same way as the Korean word “imin,” which means “immigration,” he eventually reverted to his original name. In 2006, his acting career was put on hold for a year following a serious car accident, which left him severely injured and bedridden for several months. Despite this setback, he received his first leading role in the high-school drama “Mackerel Run” (2007).

Rise to Fame

Lee’s breakthrough came in 2009 with the lead role of Gu Jun-pyo in KBS2’s “Boys Over Flowers,” the Korean adaptation of the popular shōjo manga of the same name. The series attracted high viewership ratings and buzz in South Korea, gaining Lee newfound popularity and many endorsement deals. “Boys Over Flowers” created another Korean Wave throughout Asia and made Lee a Hallyu star.

Major Achievements

Lee’s subsequent roles in “City Hunter” (2011), “The Heirs” (2013), “The Legend of the Blue Sea” (2016), and “The King: Eternal Monarch” (2020) solidified his status as a top actor. His performance in these series earned him numerous awards and recognitions. Lee’s contribution to the Hallyu wave is significant, and he remains a highly influential figure in the industry.

Personal Life

Balancing fame and personal life has been a challenge for Lee. He has an elder sister, Yun-jeong, who is the co-founder and CEO of his current agency MYM Entertainment. Lee’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, including a serious car accident in 2006, which left him with significant injuries. Despite these challenges, Lee has maintained a positive outlook and continues to pursue his passions outside of acting, such as singing and modeling.

Challenges and Triumphs

Lee has faced several personal and professional obstacles throughout his career. From the car accident that put his career on hold to dealing with the pressures of fame, he has overcome significant setbacks. His ability to bounce back from these challenges has been a testament to his resilience and determination. Lee’s personal growth and the lessons he has learned along the way have shaped him into the person he is today.

Military Service

Lee began his mandatory military service on May 12, 2017, at the Suseo Social Welfare Centre in Gangnam District Office as a public service officer. Due to his previous injuries, he was unable to serve as an active duty soldier. Lee completed his military training at the Korea Army Training Centre in Nonsan and was discharged on April 25, 2019.

Philanthropy and Social Contributions

In 2014, Lee set up the PROMIZ website, a fundraising platform to raise awareness and encourage donations for social and humanitarian causes. Proceeds from the sale of PROMIZ merchandise are given to selected partners which execute the charity projects. Lee has been involved in various charitable activities, including donating to UNICEF to aid the victims of the earthquake in Nepal and contributing to causes such as Good Neighbours, World Water Day, and more.

Recent Projects and Future Aspirations

In 2022, Lee made his Hollywood debut in a main role as Koh Hansu in the television series adaptation of Min Jin Lee’s novel “Pachinko.” The series received positive reviews and critical acclaim. Lee’s performance, particularly in the standalone episode “Chapter 7,” was highly praised. In August 2023, Hugo Boss launched a new collection featuring Lee. He continues to pursue his acting career with upcoming projects and remains dedicated to his fans and philanthropic efforts.

Reflections

Lee reflects on his journey with gratitude towards his fans, family, and colleagues. He acknowledges the challenges he has faced and the support he has received throughout his career. Lee’s message to his readers is one of resilience and perseverance, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles they may encounter.

Appendix

• Photos: Various stages of his life and career.
• Filmography: List of notable works.
• Awards and Recognitions: Comprehensive list of awards received.

Acknowledgments

Lee extends his thanks to those who have supported and influenced his journey, with special mentions of significant individuals and organizations.

FAQ’s

When was Lee Min Ho born?

Lee Min Ho was born on June 22, 1987.

What is Lee Min Ho known for?

Lee Min Ho is known for his roles in popular television series such as “Boys Over Flowers,” “City Hunter,” “The Heirs,” “The Legend of the Blue Sea,” and “The King: Eternal Monarch.” He is also recognized for his roles in films like “Gangnam Blues” and “Bounty Hunters.”

How did Lee Min Ho start his career?

Lee Min Ho began his acting career with minor roles in television shows like “Romance,” “Nonstop,” and “Recipe of Love.” His official debut role was in the EBS series “Secret Campus” in 2006.

What was Lee Min Ho’s breakthrough role?

Lee Min Ho’s breakthrough role was as Gu Jun-pyo in the 2009 television series “Boys Over Flowers,” which brought him widespread fame and recognition.

Has Lee Min Ho won any awards for his acting?

Yes, Lee Min Ho has won numerous awards for his acting, including the Best New Actor – Television trophy at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards for his role in “Boys Over Flowers.”

What other talents does Lee Min Ho have besides acting?

In addition to acting, Lee Min Ho is also a singer and model. He has released music albums and participated in various modeling campaigns.

What philanthropic activities is Lee Min Ho involved in?

Lee Min Ho is involved in various philanthropic activities through his fundraising platform PROMIZ, which supports social and humanitarian causes. He has also made significant donations to organizations such as UNICEF and Charity: Water.

Has Lee Min Ho served in the military?

Yes, Lee Min Ho began his mandatory military service on May 12, 2017, at the Suseo Social Welfare Centre in Gangnam District Office as a public service officer. He was discharged on April 25, 2019.