With her striking features, slim figure (170 cm) and fresh look, she became a sensation in the 1990s, capturing the hearts of teenage girls and dominating fashion magazines.
Kim Min-hee‘s popularity soared with her appearances in commercials, most notably coining the phrase “Love is something that moves” in a CF that became iconic in the early 2000s.
She was a pioneer of her time, gaining idol-level fame as a model and actress, something rare during an era when idols were only beginning to dominate Korean pop culture. Her distinct atmosphere, shy smile and unique features made her a standout figure.
By her early 20s, Kim Min-hee had reached the peak of her modeling career and transitioned into acting, starring in the 2002 melodrama “Age of Innocence”. However, her early acting career was marred by criticisms of her inconsistent performance and controversial remarks, such as comments about preferring wealthy partners, which alienated some of her fans.
Despite the backlash, Kim Min-hee’s talent as a model remained unmatched. She frequently graced magazine covers and collaborated with high-end brands, a rare feat at the time. Her expressive poses and natural flair solidified her reputation as a style icon, with her signature arched eyebrows becoming a trend many emulated.
As an actress, Kim Min-hee improved significantly over time, earning acclaim through films like “Hellcats”, “Helpless”, “Very Ordinary Couple”, “No Tears for the Dead” and “The Handmaiden“.
However, Kim Min-hee’s career in Korea took a turn in 2016 due to her highly publicized relationship with director Hong Sang-soo, which led to her retreat from the domestic spotlight. While she continues to work internationally, her absence from Korean screens leaves fans nostalgic for her past performances and her striking presence in both fashion and film.
Source: Naver
