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Lee Min-ho at first of four overseas fanmeetings

Speaking of Japanese fanmeetings, another rising Hallyu star, Lee Min-ho, held events in Japan last week; the two-parter occurred in Tokyo first (November 23), then Osaka (November 26).

Even considering the immense popularity of Boys Before Flowers (and the popularity of its source material, Hana Yori Dango), it’s rather astonishing that Lee Min-ho attracted a total of 8,000 fans with this set of fanmeetings on the strength of ONE role; Boys Before Flowers was his first widely known project.

To offer up a point of comparison, Jang Geun-seok is more famous than Lee Min-ho, has been active longer, and has a number of movies and drama roles (leading and supporting) in his filmography, and his recent fanmeeting commanded the respectable number of 2,000 fans. (Note: I’m not making any comparison about their abilities as actors. I think both are adorable and talented and have big futures ahead of them.) Lee Min-ho’s numbers don’t quite rival top Hallyu-stars-in-Japan like Song Seung-heon, Yonsama, or Park Yong-ha, but 8,000 puts him in the same general tier.

(His prior roles are mostly small youth dramas like Run Mackerel, I Am Sam and Secret Campus. In fact, such is Lee’s popularity in Japan due to Boys that even Japanese broadcasters will be showing Secret Campus, which was one of Lee’s first roles as a 19-year-old. When Korean broadcasters decided to capitalize on Boys‘ success by re-airing Secret Campus, Lee said he was embarrassed to have people watching him in a younger, greener performance from three years ago.)

At the fanmeeting, Lee sang the song “My Everything,” which he recorded for the Boys Before Flowers special edition OST and videos (watch and listen here). Lee made an effort to get close to as many fans as possible, even climbing on a crane to get closer to those farther away. A Japanese fan said, “I didn’t expect to be able to see Min-ho-sshi up close, but I was touched that he greeted fans one by one and met their eyes individually.” Because of his attentiveness (and a “high-five event” wherein he high-fived fans until his hand went into convulsions), fans started call him “Angel.”

He didn’t mention a project by name, but promised, “In order to fulfill your expectations, I’m taking a lot of care to choose my next project. I’d like to greet you again in a new role soon.”

Initially only planned for two installments, due to fan request, the fanmeeting series was extended to four; Lee will follow the Japanese event with fanmeetings in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore.

Via Sports Chosun, Mk.co.kr

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@ deeps

JGS' fashion sense is just "amazing". But I like his look in that photograph... haha.

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Even if you guys dont like LMH you can't deny the fact that he acted very well in his role of BOF.

But i have to say that i dont think he would have gotten half of the popularity that he gets now if it wasn't for his looks. It's mainly what is success is build on. Lets just say he's lucky to be blessed with both.

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Honestly, BOF was a complete disaster and I think everyone acknowledges that, but Lee Min Ho was fantastic, I can say without a doubt if anyone else played that part I might not have watched it all the way though. Well, if it had been JGS who knows. :D

Hell, I've even rewatched BOF a couple of times! LMH is just that awesome. AND HOT WTF

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OMG !!! Is he coming to Singapore ??? Can anyone confirm when will it be ? I am going to die from heart attack just by hearing about his fan meeting in Singapore LOL

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LMH, hwaiting.. i think he will be the second generation creating hallyu wave across Asia and all over the world.. he's young and cute... full of charisma.. who wouldn't want a piece of him...:)

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Miss JB... how could you catalogue conmotion of these dramas??:

- Coffee Prince
-BFF
- YAB

I just remember that with CP I was so ignorant about Hallyu and what I saw after that is Gong Yoo leaving to the army, just a couple of blogs in spanish of course you page all the way not not really much information... then came BFF which was full of everything, for me it became bigger and I saw how many blogs started, music, more blogs appeared, more crazyness people without sleeping time, translations, recaps etc. Just insane.

Then during and after YAB, I cannot really say how things are, still crazy but in a way wierd, maybe because we are so into this drama/hallyu/korea thing, and now we are able to appreciate a good drama without losing sleep because this has become so big that you can find anywhere the information you want?

I hope I made my self clear, sorry for the poor english. XD

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omgosh, love his hair!!! lol

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I really hope to see him in another drama soon! Seeing (cough, especially seeing, lol) him acting was a very enjoyable experience.

@45 lilly: Why throw him in the same in the same bunch with Kim Bum and the others, though? Couldn't you view his acting as an individual? I daresay it was a great deal more than 'prince charming' with a cute face and tears.

It's getting a bit tiring, all this comparing to JGS. Just because they're both lovable and talented actors, doesn't mean one should immediately be raised higher. Even though I might personally love JGS more, that does not dampen my affections for LMH (or make me put him on a pedestal and start drawing comparisons to everyone).
Let's appreciate them separately :)

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LMH, he made BOF so enjoyable. BUt really he should have a follow up project soon that way we can see if in another role the magic continues.

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Fans are voting for LMH and JGS.

http://wanndii.wordpress.com/

One of them is winning landslide. :)

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What's with LMH haterade coming from some folks here? His fan meeting dwarfs JGS's because of the BOF exposure, but after YB finishes airing in Japan, I'd bet JGS's next fanmeeting may be closer in number with LMH's.

LMH was very good in BOF, he carried the drama IMO because GHS suddenly couldn't act properly anymore. A few months ago, before YB, this post would have generated double the comments and JGS's post would have half its comments. Such is the ups and downs of being famous.

I love them both, and LMH looks so adorkable in his pictures, and like he's really enjoying himself. Get back in the game, Min-ho!

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I feel nervous for LMH, actually. After BOF, he needs to choose another hit if he wants to shed his Goo Joon Pyo-association. And, of course, who can really predict a hit. Or, he could go the Hyun Bin route and not have another big hit after MNIKSS, but continue to perform solidly and build his resume. Either way, I can't even imagine the pressure he must feel while sorting through scripts.

I agree that we should not compare LMH to Jang Geun Suk. JGS has been acting for years, has an impressive resume, and seems to have genuinely worked his way up from secondary male leads to now leading actor. ON THE OTHER HAND, JGS is on our YAB-fanatic minds, so LMH fans, don't take this personally, Even the post on IRIS was overrun by YAB- and JGS-lovin', so, really, we are just still manic from the mania, that's all.

IMHO, JGS seems to be the kind of guy you date...and LMH is the kind you marry...

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"His fan meeting dwarfs JGS’s because of the BOF exposure, but after YB finishes airing in Japan, I’d bet JGS’s next fanmeeting may be closer in number with LMH’s."

Ehhh I don't see that happening yet. 8K is pretty special -- that's 1st tier level Hallyu star. However, it isn't Lee Min Ho who drew that audience; it was the franchise itself and the promotional muscle behind it. Prior to his Tokyo showing, SMAP member Kusanagi actually went to Korea to interview him, which further enhance the perception of him being a unique star. You can thank the BBF promotional tour for that.

Hallyu's done a really nice job promoting the 86-88 generation. After Hyun Bin and Joo Ji hoon, there seemed to kind of a lull in future marketable Hallyu stars. However, 2009 heralded the arrival of the 86-88 generation, and Hallyu's done a great job introducing China and Japan to the new kids on the block.

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Dude he must be SOOO pressured to pick his next role...would hate to be in his shoes but I'm looking forward to seeing his next project!

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"Dude he must be SOOO pressured to pick his next role…"

To me, the dream role would be the remake of Tokyo Tower with Kim Ji Soo. It makes so, so much sense. Commercially, Hallyu, artistically, etc. It may not generate the big mainstream ratings, but it would establish him as a serious actor. And the housewives of Japan would go NUTS.

I mean, to me, it's just so obvious. Lee Min Ho is the right age and has the right sensibilities for the part. And the idea of Kim Ji Soo and Lee Min Ho getting hot and heavy and just so forbidden and intense . . . I think I'll faint. :D

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@62 Nom_Kitteh

I totally agree with JGS is the one you would date and LMH is the one you would marry part.. LOL! I would totally date JGS but would marry LMH hands down hahaha. Plus, LMH has the sweet boy next door fashion sense compared to JGS' quirky outfits hehe, and I'm a conservative nuuna LOL. I adore them both still, and looking forward for their next projects.

I'm not into BOF but I appreciate watching it as I think one of the good things it brings is Lee Min Ho (and Lee Min Jung). He's incredibly talented, and like some others, I'm a bit nervous too waiting for him to choose his next project. Of course I wanted him to shed his GJP image, but he's been lying low for quite a while (nearly a year after BOF!), so it really is the time to pick another project. Whether it's the right one or not, we shall wait and see. Would love to see him in another trendy drama though.

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"I totally agree with JGS is the one you would date and LMH is the one you would marry part.. "

I tend to see it this way. LMH is hubby material. JGS is the one who cleans the pool while hubby's away. A great love is rare. A great lover, even rarer . . .

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@belleza:

YES! YES! The Tokyo Tower remake would be the perfect choice for him. And Kim Ji Soo could represent all us ICOMYM noonas......

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@ Stern : I put him in the same case as Kim Bum because they both force their acting.

@45 lilly: Why throw him in the same in the same bunch with Kim Bum and the others, though? Couldn’t you view his acting as an individual? I daresay it was a great deal more than ‘prince charming’ with a cute face and tears.

Wait for example will you tell me you fell for his (over)acting when GHS kicked him in episode 1 (or his acting in all episode 1), everytime he cried and he put his hand on his face, everytime he made a "joke"...the only thing which saved him apart his look is because he acted mostly as a sad romantic guy...daresay the contrary.

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Kim Bum's acting style reminded me strongly of Jo In Sung (turned out JIS is his favorite actor.) During East of Eden, I was literally "OMG not since Bali!" However, after seeing 3 straight performances from him, it's getting one note-ish (seriously babe, you don't need to ALWAYS yell when you have a bad day!)

However, the dude is talented and has potential big appeal. If you go past the '82 actors, the number of star male leads really dwindles. The prevailing theme of 2009 is the coming-out party for the 86-88 generation, actors and actresses who are ready to take over Hallyu as the '82 guys begin entering the military.

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I really admire LMH. He's a good actor, singer, model especially his height and good looks!!! He has it all!! He's very charming guy. I can't wait for his next drama. I'm so proud of him to gained a lot of fans in Japan and other Asian country.

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I think he should not do any action drama right now. I don't think a lot of Koreans like to watch action dramas. He should stay with romantic heavy drama and a more mature role.

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@70: Actually, I didn't fall for him in the first episode at all. This happened gradually, the more I saw him act. For your information, I didn't even find him all that attractive in the beginning...more like a bit off and dorky looking, lol. That came with the fondness for liking his acting, too =) And anyway, if good looks or a few nice looking movements would be enough to gain my affection, I'd care about what Kim Hyun Joong's up to, as well (actually towards the end the only thing I liked about him on screen was his voice, haha - and even that started losing it's charm). [Instead, I'm kind of apprehensive of him being the possible Momo. That kind of role requires more :( Like LMH has to offer, for example! Hehe.]
I think you should give him a chance =) Maybe with his next drama project, then.

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OK, this post prooves that I'm a little slow on the uptake.
By about three quarters of a year. :)

Because.......while watching Volume #1 of the DVD, I realized
that all of the aggravation that the evil CEO mom caused in
"Boys Over Flowers" could have ended as soon as her son,
Junpyo, called a.........PRESS CONFERENCE!!!!!

This could have been early on, in the first few episodes, or
whenever Jun-di first realized that they were in love. Standing
in front of a group of reporters, Junpyo could have pointed to
"crabgrass" Jandi and her nutcase family, and proclaimed:
SHINWA ~ THE COMPANY THAT CARES ABOUT COMMONERS!
(Snappy marketing slogan, huh?)

Or later on in the series, accompanied by Jihoo and his grandfather,
the former President, talking about the evil Madam Kang's plan to
take over their foundation, and then have a few comments from Gaeul's
recently unemployed father, discussing how & why he lost his job.

Of course, knowing the power of PUBLIC RELATIONS, the evil witch
would have only needed a brief office conversation with the happy couple
to realize that the game was over, without needing an actual press conference.
Just a small wedding ceremony would do nicely. Gaeul as the Maid of Honor,
and in a surprising twist of fate, secretary Mr. Jung as the Best Man.

*** Contact me through this web site, to discuss my employment demands
as an official scriptwriter for future kdramas. :) :) :)

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@ 74 maybe in his next projects he will act better but as Domyoji Tsukasa he even did a worse work than Jerry Yan. Frankly he tried a lot of time to be funny but everytime he failed miserably , his overracting cryings were too funny and his "I am alone" sounds too fake !

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i'll be biased cause im a big fan of min ho.. and i really love everything about him his talents for me are superb....

and let's not compare him with jang geun suk ...they are different in their own ways both has something to prove...and to excel with...

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@ 45:
Everyone's entitled to their opinions, but I honestly think that LMH was the only thing that appealed in BOF. (I've watched HYD before as well.) One thing I don't get about your comment is how you say he can't act and he's just acting like a prince. Understandably, his character was a lot different than the original Domyouji (MatsuJun did a fantastic job), but I think he nailed the Korean Gu Junpyo. Not to mention, MatsuJun had a tendency to overact on the comic bits (but this has more to do with differences in Korean & Japanese Humor)..

Anyway sorry for going on about that lol x) But I still think you should give him a chance! I see a lot of potential in him :) (even if he's not the best looking actor or anything)

and LOL i so agree with that comment about JGS being the one who cleans the pool ;) haha for me, i really like dorky guys.. so LOL i love LMH :) he seems very humble and down-to-earth even after all this has happened. :)
and JGS-- i agree he's like a flirt.. very confident & likes attention. I dont mean this in a bad way at ALL! i love him & his outgoing personality :D
but seriously.. i dont think we should compare the two since their appeals are much different :/ not to mention, while JGS has a longer resume, i honestly dont think he nailed his role for everything (YAB? YES! TOTALLY! but uh HGD? his acting wasnt that great :/ kinda wooden)

:) anyway i look forward to leeminho's future. i hope he picks good projects and shows versatility :)

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also i really dont think JB is not biased about her opinion on LMH (read recaps for BOF and you'll get what i mean)

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Javabeans ~
I've written before how (thanks to your hard work) I've been able
to print up the 25 episode summaries, and comments, from this
web site for "Boys Before Flowers." It make up into a snappy
"book-album" filling five thick 3-ring binders. Thank you so much!

I also need to comment.........on your impending sainthood,
for the freedom that you allow people........on YOUR site.

It's been a year ~ A YEAR ~ since "lilly" first started complaining
about how terrible BBF is. Over and over and over and over again.
I've read the same thing written so many times, I could write it myself:
#1. BBF doesn't follow the Japanese version.
#2. The Japanese actors followed the manga (sp?) storyline perfectly.
#3. Gu Junpyo doesn't follow the role of _____ as done correctly in the J version.
#4. Jandi doesn't follow the role of _____ as done correctly in the J version.
#5. Jihoon doesn't follow the role of _____ as done correctly in the J version.
#6. Yijung doesn't follow the role of _____ as done correctly in the J version.
#7. None of these actors know how to act, and were only in BBF because
of their looks; which are all wrong anyway, compared to the J version.
#5. Nobody did anything right in the Korean version because the Japanese version was the greatest invention since sliced bread........

Enough already, lilly.
We got your point.......hundreds of posts ago.
Boys Before Flowers was terrible.
You're absolutely right about everything.
The gazillions of people who enjoyed BBF, flaws and all, are wrong.

But instead of replying to my post, to proove how sarcastic you can be,
how about you crack open a dictionary, and look up the word: VERSION.

~
JB: So where should I send the money, to start the fund rolling, to buy
the trophy for "The Most Complaining Over One Series By One Person
Over A Period Of One Year?"
Take care ~ :)

*

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Why don't he come to the Philippines? I think that many fans of him would be pleased if he would meet and greet them, especially when seeing his adorable smile.. :-)

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Hello,Lee Min Ho!!!!!! Im a Filipina,I dont know if you can understand my message,"SANA BIGYAN MO AKO NG PAGKAKATAON NA IPARATING SAYO KUNG GAANO AKO HUMAHANGA SAYO,ALAM KO DI AKO GANUN KAYAMAN PARA MAKAPUNTA SA MGA LUGAR NA KUNG SAAN KA NAGPEPERFORM,MASAYA NA AKO NA MABASA MO LANG ANG MGA MESSAGE KO,ALAM MO IPINAGDARASAL DIN KITA NA SANA AY SUMIKAT KA PA AT MAKILALA PA NG MARAMING TAO DITO SA MUNDO.MAS MALAYO PA SANA ANG MARATING MO.IPINAGDARASAL KO DIN NA MAKAHANAP KA NG ISANG BABAENG MAKAKAPAGPALIGAYA SAYO HABANG BUHAY,KUNG DI MAN KITA MAKITA NG PERSONAL WAG KA MAG-ALALA IPINAPANGAKO KO NA BIBILHIN KO LAHAT NG MGA MAGIGING MOVIE MO.PAPANGARAPIN KO NALANG NA SANA SOMEDAY MAKIKITA KITA NG PERSONAL,AND I WAS THE HAPPIEST WOMAN IN THE WHOLE WORLD!!!NARITO ANG TUNAY NA EMAIL ADDRESS KO IF EVER GUSTO MO MAN LANG SAGUTIN ANG MGA ISINULAT KO.(chryzna30@yahoo.com)HOPE MABASA MO AT SANA SAGUTIN ANG MESSAGE KO.ITOY PANGARAP KO AT SANA MATUPAD KAHIT REPLY MO LANG ..........YOU CAN TRANSLATE MY MESSAGE........I WISH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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aniasewoh lee minho...........sa rang hae................i konw u cannot understand english but your sister can so if her sister by change read this message then please teach him english soon.....ur fans are trying hard to learn korean so that we can atleast say somthing when we meet.....one suggestion for you ATLEAST ONCE VISIT NEPAL"...YOU HAV LOTS OF FAN HERE...................LUV U LUV U..........................MUAHHH.............CHARISAAYO................

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Only I love you lee min Ho only:)

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Woow.. Wonderful days when Dramabeans were actully Lee Min Hot fans.. hahaha what has changed Javabeans spill the beans?

Anywayz great to see these old Minho articles which brings a huge smile on my lips..

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