Still under the spell of Lee Min-ho
It’s been over 15 years since Lee Min-ho stormed onto our screens as the curly-haired, arrogant, but secretly soft-hearted Gu Jun-pyo in “Boys Over Flowers” (2009). But for many of us, the infatuation never ended. He redefined the ideal K-drama heartthrob, and we’ve been under his spell ever since.
Lee Min-ho knows this. He revels in it. That affection radiated throughout his recent fancon, “Minhoverse,” held at the Mall of Asia Arena. The show was promoted by Pulp Live World, TONZ Entertainment and MYM Entertainment
Excitement filled the air as everyone waited for the show to start. The crowd was a mix of fans who had been there since his F4 days and newly minted followers from “Pachinko.”
He opened the show in an oversized polo shirt, jeans, and the song “I Love You,” a track from his 2015 album “The Day.”
His confidence was unmistakable as he sat down. He didn’t have to do much to drive the crowd wild—a casual flick of his tongue across his lips here, a teasing smirk there, or a flash of his dimples was enough. But the most powerful weapon in his arsenal was the way he laughed. Lee was genuinely appreciative whenever the audience screamed at the sight of his old characters on screen.
His laugh was contagious and addictive. It’s easy to understand why the crowd kept craving it—and why he kept giving. It was a mix of surprise, delight, and pure happiness. This warmth made the event feel easygoing and relaxed.
Undeniable potential
Lee is no stranger to Filipino Minoz (the name of his fandom). He visited the country multiple times in the early stages of his career, when he was still a rising star. Even then, his potential was undeniable. His ambassadorship with Bench lasted four years, making him one of the brand’s longest-serving foreign endorsers. That star power was further cemented when he was chosen as the face of SMDC, lending his name to the company’s condominium developments.
In his last event, his fans went on a dinner date with him—complete with a three-course meal. Lee Min-ho knows his Pinoy fans. He knows this is his second home and he acted like it. The actor was able to get his well-deserved rest while he was in the country.
“I feel that the Philippines matches me so well. I slept for 15 hours when I got here,” he said, after sharing that sleep is the most important thing for managing stress. In a segment where he had to choose from his iconic characters from different dramas, he balanced his choices between what the fans wanted and the answers he really wanted to give.
For example, he chose Gu Jun-pyo of “Boys Over Flowers” because he said the Philippines likes men with a strong presence. But he also said that he personally relates most to Kim Tan.
Lee’s fan service remains unparalleled. He still embraces the pre-pandemic style of interaction—inviting fans onstage, playing games with them, and allowing moments of close contact. In one segment, he even lifted a fan up to help her pop a balloon. This resulted in bouts of laughter from the crowd and yes, even a hint of envy. Lee was genuinely disappointed when the Philippines only managed to pop four in total.
He laughed appreciatively at the fans who were practically hyperventilating from being so close to him. Lee playfully teased them even more—locking eyes with them, holding their gaze, and occasionally offering a light touch that sent the crowd into a frenzy. It was in moments like these that you could feel his sense of humor and love for fun. His punchlines always landed.
Rockstar era
Contributor Eds Garcia said that “Minhoverse” showcases Lee in his rockstar era. He performed a total of six songs, all original tracks, backed by a full live band and capped with an encore. An extended stage let him move closer to the audience, blurring the line between K-drama royalty and stage showman. It’s the kind of setup that speaks volumes: This is someone who pays attention to what his fans want.
Lee isn’t just relying on the fame he has already achieved. He’s grown alongside the people who have loved him for over a decade, and in return, he shows up with sincerity, effort, and a genuine desire to connect.
If anything, he is a testament to Filipino loyalty. We can look at other stars and enjoy our time with them—but we never forget our first love. And for many, Lee Min-ho is still their one and only.
