Shin Min-ho

Biography:

Shin Min-ho, born Yang Min-a on April 5, 1984, is a well-known South Korean actress and model. She grew up in a family with her parents, an older sister, and a brother. Her journey into the entertainment industry began when she was in middle school—after submitting a photo from a school picnic to the teen magazine KiKi, she was selected as a model. This opportunity led to appearances in commercials and music videos before she made her acting debut in 2001 with the film Volcano High.

In 2003, she starred in Madeleine, but her breakthrough came in 2005 with A Bittersweet Life, where her portrayal of Hee-soo—a character blending innocence and depth—won over South Korean audiences. Following this success, she expanded her acting range, taking on diverse roles, including a martial arts comedy (My Mighty Princess), a ’70s go-go dancer (Go Go 70s), and a more introspective role in the independent film Sisters on the Road.

Beyond acting, Shin Min-a has explored various artistic collaborations. In 2009, she took part in Miracle Blue, a project combining fashion, music, and visual art, where she teamed up with the Korean alternative band Loveholic and fashion brand Calvin Klein. In the project’s music video, she showcased her versatility by playing different characters, from an innocent young girl to a glamorous blonde singer.