Lee Min Ho is embroiled in a controversy after a netizen spotted him smoking on the streets of South Korea. The viral clip also showed Ahn Hyo Seop standing beside him, indicating that the duo might have been filming something for their upcoming film, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint. Fans have since been defending the actors, arguing about their private lives, while others have been criticizing them for smoking in public.
Viral Clip Goes Online
Recently, a short clip went viral on X (formerly Twitter) and several fan communities, where Lee Min Ho is seen smoking on the streets. Ahn Hyo Seop was also seen beside him. Although his back was facing the camera, fans had no trouble recognizing him. The video sparked a sudden controversy. Many expressed disappointment over the matter, while others pointed out that they might not have been smoking in a designated area.
Public Reactions
The reactions have been deeply divided. Critics argue that public figures should set better examples, particularly regarding actions like smoking in public. Some were concerned about the image it projects, especially with promotional materials for their upcoming projects currently in focus.
Conversely, a significant number of fans have defended the actor. Many believe their private moments should not be scrutinized or recorded without consent. Requests to delete the video have also emerged, with supporters citing concerns that the controversy might affect their upcoming projects.
Excuse me from outside the follow. When did this happen? Isn't it Lee Min-ho's private time? Do you have permission to shoot from the person? If so, I don't think it should be uploaded.
— snow (@Snow117622Snow) December 12, 2024
Neither Lee Min Ho, nor his agency have addressed the issue publicly as of now.
Upcoming Projects
The viral video has added extra attention to the actors’ shared upcoming project, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, an eagerly awaited film scheduled for release in Summer 2025. The movie, directed by Kim Byung Woo, also stars BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Chae Soo Bin in key roles. Filming for the project concluded in August, leading some fans to speculate that the clip may have been taken during promotional shoots.
In addition to Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, both actors are actively working on other significant projects. Lee Min Ho’s highly anticipated space drama When the Stars Gossip is set to premiere on January 4, 2025, airing on tvN and Netflix. Meanwhile, Ahn Hyo Seop is reportedly in talks for The Night of Heaven, a drama to be directed by Yoon Jong Ho, known for his work on Lovely Runner.
Mixed Opinions Reflect Changing Norms
This incident highlights ongoing discussions about the intersection of privacy and public image for celebrities. Fans and observers continue to debate whether actors should be held accountable for their off-camera behaviors or be granted the same privacy as anyone else.
For more updates on Lee Min Ho, Ahn Hyo Seop, and their upcoming projects, stay tuned to Vviptimes.
