Lee Min-ho, the South Korean actor celebrated for his iconic roles in dramas such as Boys Over Flowers and The Heirs, recently launched his first fan meeting tour in eight years, dubbed “Minhoverse.” Kicking off in Seoul in March 2025, the tour has sparked widespread attention—not only for its long-awaited return but also for the initial concerns over ticket sales and the enthusiastic response it ultimately received. This article offers a factual and comprehensive look at the frenzy surrounding Lee Min-ho’s fan meetings, exploring the buildup, the events themselves, and their broader significance.
The Announcement and Initial Controversy
In January 2025, Lee Min-ho unveiled plans for his “Minhoverse” Asia fan meeting tour, a significant milestone after an eight-year break from such events. The tour began with a highly anticipated event in Seoul at the Olympic Hall on March 8, 2025, followed by scheduled stops in cities like Bangkok, Jakarta, and Manila. The announcement, posted on X by ActorLeeMinHo, ignited excitement among his global fanbase.
However, as the Seoul date approached, reports of sluggish ticket sales emerged. According to Koreaboo, by February 23, 2025, only 55% of the 2,500 available seats—roughly 1,375 tickets—had been sold. This sparked intense online debates, with some questioning whether Lee Min-ho’s star power was fading, especially when compared to peers like Kim Soo-hyun, who recently sold out a 4,500-seat venue. Outlets like KBIZoom and Pannchoa reported on the discussions, noting speculation that the lukewarm reception to his latest drama, When the Stars Gossip, or his long hiatus from fan meetings might be to blame.
The Seoul Fan Meeting: A Turnaround Triumph
Despite the pre-event buzz about ticket sales, the Seoul fan meeting on March 8, 2025, went ahead as planned and proved to be a resounding success among attendees. Fans took to X to share their delight, with MinozFantasy225 calling it the “best experience” of their life, citing a personal “hi bye” moment where they held hands with Lee Min-ho. Another attendee, sovaAnet82, praised the intimacy of hearing his voice and laughter, even from the back rows.
A report from Chosunbiz, published on March 14, 2025, echoed this sentiment, noting that Lee Min-ho “captivated fans” with his performance and interactions. While exact attendance figures remain unreported, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests that the event overcame its rocky start to deliver a memorable experience.
Comparative Context: Lee Min-ho and His Peers
The ticket sales controversy inevitably invited comparisons to other Hallyu stars. Kim Soo-hyun’s recent fan meeting filled 4,500 seats, while Lee Jong-suk sold 2,000 tickets despite a hiatus, as highlighted by Pinkvilla. These contrasts fueled speculation about Lee Min-ho’s domestic popularity.
Yet, context matters. The Olympic Hall’s 2,500-seat capacity is smaller than Kim Soo-hyun’s venue, and Lee Min-ho’s eight-year gap between fan meetings sets a different stage. Moreover, his international draw remains strong, as seen in the excitement for upcoming stops like Manila, scheduled for April 26, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Arena. Ticket details released by Philstar.com reflect robust interest in the region.
Broader Implications and Future Prospects
The Seoul event and its surrounding narrative shed light on the evolving landscape of fan engagement in South Korea’s entertainment industry. While initial ticket sales raised eyebrows, the warm reception from attendees reaffirms Lee Min-ho’s enduring connection with his core supporters. The “Minhoverse” tour’s expansion across Asia, including his expressed enthusiasm to meet Filipino fans (ABS-CBN Entertainment), signals a strategic effort to bolster his global presence.
Conclusion
Lee Min-ho’s fan meeting frenzy reflects both the challenges and triumphs of sustaining a high-profile career. What began with doubts over ticket sales transformed into a showcase of his lasting appeal, driven by the passion of fans who cherish every moment with him. As the “Minhoverse” tour unfolds, it’s evident that Lee Min-ho’s star power—especially on the international stage—remains a force to be reckoned with, proving that his bond with fans is as strong as ever.
