Lee Min-ho, one of Korea’s most globally recognized actors, has found himself at the center of a growing debate after posting a photo of his lavish birthday gifts on June 21. As he turns 38 years old on June 22, the star expressed gratitude to his fans by sharing an image of massive bouquets, decorative balloons, and luxury gift boxes on social media. However, the response has been anything but unanimous.

While many fans celebrated the tradition and defended his post as a simple act of appreciation, others were quick to criticize it as tone-deaf and out of step with the times. Some questioned the need to showcase such material support, commenting, “At Lee Min-ho’s level, it wouldn’t be odd for him to politely decline gifts and simply accept the sentiment,” and, “Other stars these days are encouraging donations over gifts, yet Lee still acts like receiving and posting gifts is normal.” Others added, “Considering how serious the environmental crisis is, proudly showing off balloons and flower arrangements every year feels tone-deaf,” and, “It looks like he’s silently asking for more again next year.”

The criticism stems largely from shifting cultural expectations around celebrity influence and social responsibility. Increasingly, stars like G-Dragon, Park Bo-gum, and Gong Hyo-jin have taken public stances against material gifting. G-Dragon, for example, marked his birthday with a 81.8 million KRW donation to the UN Refugee Agency. Gong Hyo-jin, who co-starred with Lee Min-ho in the drama “When the Stars Gossip,” once posted, “For my upcoming birthday, I’ll be happy with your warm wishes alone,” expressing discomfort with the wastefulness of gifts, packaging, and uneaten cakes. Actor Park Bo-gum also garnered praise for stating, “The thought matters more than the gift,” and politely rejecting fan offerings on social media.

In contrast, Lee Min-ho’s birthday display, featuring items often viewed as environmental hazards, struck some as outdated. Critics suggested that, as a leading figure in the Hallyu wave, he could help shift fan culture toward sustainability and philanthropy.

However, not everyone agreed. Many fans rushed to Lee’s defense: “Why is it a problem if fans genuinely want to give?.” Others added, “He simply shared their kindness — it’s no one else’s business,” and, “He didn’t beg for gifts; he’s just sharing joy with his fans.” Supporters argue that it’s a tradition between star and fans, grounded in mutual affection.

Still, the backlash highlights a broader conversation about what fan love should look like in 2025. As audiences grow more socially conscious, there’s increasing support for acts of kindness and donation culture over lavish consumerism.