Lee Min-ho Reflects on 'Boys Over Flowers' and His Career Journey

In a recent episode of 짠한형 (Jjanhan Hyung), Lee Min-ho opened up about his current state and reminisced about his time filming the iconic drama 'Boys Over Flowers' (꽃보다 남자). The episode, titled 'Gong Hyo-jin and Lee Min-ho {Jjanhan Hyung} EP. 74: I'll Give You All the Words You Like, Old Times, Sex! Min-ho, You're Just Like Me!!', aired on January 6, 2025.

During the discussion, Lee Min-ho expressed concerns about sustaining his current energy levels for the next decade, stating, "I feel like I can't maintain this energy for another ten years. Although I've come this far safely, I need a new mindset." He described his personality as having extreme aspects, indicating a shift from previously denying certain traits to embracing them anew.

He humorously referred to this phase as a 'second puberty,' prompting laughter from co-hosts Shin Dong-yup and Gong Hyo-jin, who commented on his eloquence and intelligence.

Lee Min-ho also shared that it had been a while since he felt belittled in a project. He noted, "Experiencing cold stares from someone was quite hurtful. I used to be the one giving those dismissive looks while playing a chaebol (wealthy heir)." Shin Dong-yup jokingly asked how many actors Lee Min-ho had hurt in the past.

Reflecting on the backlash he received after the first episode of 'Boys Over Flowers,' Lee Min-ho recalled, "After the first episode aired, I was bombarded with insults on my mini homepage for tormenting Geum Jan-di (played by Ku Hye-sun). Suddenly, 50,000 to 60,000 people flooded my page just to criticize me. I thought, 'Did I do something wrong? Is this a disaster?'" He later found comfort in the fact that the audience's disdain eventually turned into affection for his character.

Lee Min-ho humorously pointed out that if 'Boys Over Flowers' were to air today, it would likely face legal issues due to its portrayal of school bullying. He remarked, "Everyone was a bit crazy back then; even I look at my hairstyle and think it was insane," referring to his luxurious wavy hair as a chaebol's son. He mentioned that he wore that hairstyle during auditions because he was desperate for the role.

Shin Dong-yup shared a surprising anecdote about Lee Min-ho not being an overnight star, to which Lee Min-ho responded, "I played many minor roles, like nameless employees and friends, for five years without any significant parts." Shin Dong-yup added, "Even if your face is the same, you really couldn't make a living back then," eliciting more laughter.