Lee Min-ho: A 12-Year Reign as the Global Hallyu Star
Lee Min-ho continues to solidify his status as a prominent figure in the Hallyu wave, having been named the most popular Korean actor for an impressive 12 consecutive years. This recognition was part of the 2025 Global Hallyu Survey, conducted by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, alongside the Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange.
Published on April 7, 2025, the survey gathered insights from over 26,400 participants across 28 countries between November 29 and December 27, 2024. It aimed to analyze global interactions with Korean cultural content.
Survey Highlights and Rankings
In this year’s survey, Lee Min-ho secured 7.0% of the votes, reinforcing his widespread appeal in regions such as Asia, North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Following close behind was Gong Yoo, who received 2.4% of the votes, followed by Song Hye-kyo (2.4%), Kim Soo-hyun (2.3%), and Lee Jong-suk rounding out the top five.
Fan Celebrations
The support from fans has been tremendous as they celebrate Lee Min-ho’s remarkable continued success. Social media is abuzz with congratulatory messages:
“The multi-talented, low-key and unbothered Hallyu King,”said one fan.
“You are so loved and a most respected personality in We, congratulations,”commented another.
“LMH in the spot for 12 consecutive years already!! now, that’s what you call legend!”another fan responded.
Fan appreciation highlights the dedication and personality behind Lee Min-ho’s success. Many have pointed out the unique challenge of maintaining such a position over more than a decade:
“Being on the top is probably easy, but maintaining it not just for one year but 12 consecutive years is almost impossible. It takes talent, success, and a humble personality. Congrats, King!”another fan commented.
“Lee Min-ho being in first place for 12 consecutive years – what a KING,”said another.
“I 100% agree. He should get an award as one of the best actors ever, not just in Korea,”reacted another.
A Glimpse into Lee Min-ho’s Career
Born on June 22, 1987, in Seoul, Lee Min-ho gained international fame for his role as Gu Jun-pyo in the 2009 hit series Boys Over Flowers. His remarkable performance earned him the Best New Actor award at the 45th Baeksang Arts Awards, establishing him as a leading figure in the Hallyu phenomenon.
Since then, Lee has starred in numerous popular dramas, including City Hunter, The Heirs, The Legend of the Blue Sea, and most recently, The King: Eternal Monarch. In 2025, he returned to the small screen in the much-anticipated When the Stars Gossip, a sci-fi romantic comedy where he plays a gynecologist who encounters an astronaut, portrayed by Gong Hyo-jin, while stationed in space. This series premiered on tvN on January 4, 2025, boasting a substantial production budget of 50 billion won after five years of planning.
Beyond acting, Lee Min-ho remains dedicated to his international fanbase. In March 2025, he hosted an international fan meeting named MINHOVERSE in Manila, Philippines, enhancing his connection with fans worldwide.