Actor Lee Minho captivated global audiences at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) with his new film "The Assassin(s)."
Starring Lee Minho, "The Assassin(s)" unravels the mysteries and shadows behind the shocking August 15, 1974 assassination of South Korea's First Lady. Lee Minho plays Young-il, a passionate and ambitious rookie reporter on the social affairs desk at Dongsung Ilbo, portraying the character's relentless drive as he transforms from an eyewitness to a seeker of the truth.
"The Assassin(s)" made its successful world premiere after being officially invited to the Gala Presentations section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival on September 16 (local time). Lee Minho elevated the excitement of the festival by taking part in major events ranging from the red carpet to public screenings, actively engaging with international filmgoers.
In particular, "The Assassin(s)" sold out all 4,256 seats available across its festival screenings. The film continued to receive glowing reviews from major international media outlets and local attendees following its world premiere, proving the intense local interest in the project. The movie further demonstrated its resonance with international audiences by achieving the meaningful honor of being named Runner-Up for the International People's Choice Award.
The global fandom's passion for Lee Minho was on full display throughout the event. On September 17 (local time), the festival's official "In Conversation with…" (ICW) session sold out instantly upon opening for advance ticketing. During the talk, Lee Minho shared sincere thoughts about his journey as an actor and the project, discussing everything from how he approached shaping Young-il in "The Assassin(s)" to his acting philosophy and his heartfelt appreciation for fans. He also had a meaningful exchange with moviegoers at the subsequent second public screening and Q&A, personally discussing the film's message and behind-the-scenes stories. Lee Minho engaged enthusiastically with the audience throughout the session, inviting a fan onto the stage and even posing his own questions about the movie back to the crowd.
Lee Minho has long commanded widespread influence as a leading figure of K-culture, backed by a massive global fandom. According to the "2026 Overseas Hallyu Survey" released in March by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), Lee Minho ranked No. 1 as the favorite Korean actor among Hallyu fans worldwide for the 13th consecutive year.
Having reaffirmed the immense interest of international fans through TIFF, Lee Minho is now ready to greet audiences back home. In "The Assassin(s)," he anchors the film's tension with his dense, nuanced acting, bringing to life Young-il's fearless courage and unstoppable momentum as he dives headfirst into a massive mystery.
"The Assassin(s)" opened in theaters across South Korea today, September 23.
<Photo = Hive Media Corp>
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)
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