Lee Min-ho Continues Reign as Hallyu Superstar, Surpasses Hyun Bin and IU in International Poll

Despite the rise of new stars, Lee Min-ho has maintained his position as the most beloved Korean actor among international fans for a remarkable 13th consecutive year. The results of the 2026 Overseas Hallyu Survey conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism reveal that Lee Min-ho secured 7.1% of the votes, more than double the percentages of runner-ups Song Hye-kyo (2.6%) and IU (2.3%). The survey polled 27,400 international viewers from 30 countries who responded to open-ended questions, indicating a strong affinity for Lee Min-ho among global consumers of Korean content.

This achievement solidifies Lee's status as the face of Hallyu, with his presence extending beyond acting. In the ranking of influential Korean wave figures, he placed second only to singer PSY, who is credited with launching the K-pop phenomenon worldwide with his hit song 'Gangnam Style' in 2012.

• The results are a testament to Lee Min-ho's enduring appeal and dedication to his craft. With a career spanning over two decades, he has consistently delivered high-quality performances that captivate audiences worldwide. His versatility as an actor, model, and entrepreneur has earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
• Lee Min-ho's international success can be attributed in part to his breakout role in the 2009 drama 'Boys Over Flowers', which catapulted him to global fame. The show's immense popularity paved the way for subsequent collaborations with renowned directors and production companies, cementing his status as a sought-after talent.
• The actor's commitment to philanthropy has also contributed to his global appeal. Through various charity initiatives and endorsements, Lee Min-ho has demonstrated his dedication to social causes and corporate partnerships, fostering goodwill among fans and sponsors alike.
• Lee Min-ho's influence extends beyond the entertainment industry. He has been a key figure in promoting Korean culture abroad through diplomatic efforts, including ambassadorial roles for various organizations such as the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Korea Tourism Organization.
• The actor's online presence is also noteworthy, with over 20 million followers on social media platforms like Instagram and Weibo. His ability to connect with fans worldwide has enabled him to maintain a strong brand image, transcending language barriers and cultural differences.
• Despite facing increased competition from newer stars, Lee Min-ho remains the gold standard for international audiences. His ability to adapt to changing trends and audience preferences has allowed him to stay relevant in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

As Hallyu continues to grow in popularity globally, Lee Min-ho's enduring success serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors and entrepreneurs alike. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Korean entertainment and its influence on international pop culture.