South Korean actor Lee Jin Wook just became the talk of cyberspace as he made a stunningly different appearance at the 2025 LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles.
According to Koreaboo, the actor attended an annual event sponsored by Gucci, looking dashing in a classic tuxedo that really brought out his sophistication and confidence. The actor carried himself with "a dignified yet classic charm," as fans and reporters noted.
However, it was not Lee's attire that truly captured attention. His round face, grown beard, and slightly heavier physique fueled much speculation and curiosity from fans.
Photos of him at the event were quickly disseminated through various internet channels, with many commenters registering surprise and speculation about what the actor was up to in his life or future projects.
User comments on TheQoo, the popular online community in Korea, show the diverse public reactions. Comments include: "Please don't do this." And, "Come back..."
Others focused on his appearance in a more humorous light. One commenter said, "Why are his fingers so short LOL. I thought his pointer finger was his thumb." Another user shared, "I thought he was Super Junior's Siwon for a second there."
Still, some offered a more positive take on it. To wit: "But he looks happy," said one netizen. "Is it because of the beard? He's giving off a dignified look now that he's older," added another.
Koreaboo pointed out that Lee Jin Wook's new look resembled the recent red carpet appearances of Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio, with several netizens drawing direct comparisons between the two.
Meanwhile, discussions reflected broader comments on public expectations around actors' looks. Some speculated that this transformation could be associated with an upcoming film or a deliberate shift from his previously clean-cut image.
Lee Jin-wook, of course well known for his leading roles in Voice, Sweet Home and the recent Bulgasal: Immortal Souls, has so far not addressed public reactions to either the comments or the reasons surrounding his new look.
The actor's appearance still dominates Korean entertainment forums, reflecting how quickly image shifts among celebrities can generate viral attention and debate.
