In a beautiful culmination of a decade-long romance, celebrated South Korean actors Shin Min-a (41) and Kim Woo-bin (36) exchanged vows today. The wedding was a highly private affair, held at the prestigious Shilla Hotel in Seoul's Jung-gu district. Adding a profound spiritual dimension to the celebrity event, the ceremony was officiated by the renowned monk Beopryun.
A Love Forged Through Trials and Unwavering Support
The couple's journey began in 2014 on the set of a fashion advertisement. They confirmed their relationship publicly in 2015, quickly becoming one of the Korean entertainment industry's most steadfast and admired pairs. Their bond faced its ultimate test in 2017 when Kim Woo-bin was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer.
This led to a grueling two-and-a-half-year hiatus from his acting career. Throughout this challenging period, Shin Min-a stood firmly by his side. Insiders describe her role as that of a "shadow guardian," quietly adjusting her own work schedules and avoiding public events to prioritize his care and recovery. This legendary loyalty is seen as the bedrock of their relationship. Reports suggest that spiritual guidance from figures like Beopryun may have provided them strength during this dark chapter, adding depth to their enduring partnership.
Charitable Gesture Overshadows Wedding Glamour
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of their wedding day was not the ceremony itself, but a monumental act of generosity that preceded it. Hours before taking their vows, the couple announced a donation of 300 million Korean Won (approximately INR 18.2 million). The funds were distributed to the Hallym Burn Foundation, Seoul Asan Hospital, and the Good Friends organization, aiming to aid burn victims and other vulnerable groups.
This pre-wedding benevolence amplifies their already impressive philanthropic records. Individually, Shin Min-a has donated around 4 billion KRW in her lifetime, while Kim Woo-bin has contributed over 1.1 billion KRW. Their combined lifetime giving exceeds 5 billion KRW, setting a powerful example in an industry often associated with extravagance. The combination of a monk-led ceremony and this significant charity act positions them as a couple whose values extend far beyond the red carpet.
Parallel Careers and a Flawless Union
Both stars have enjoyed illustrious careers that seem to mirror the stability of their relationship. Shin Min-a debuted as a model in 1998, rising to fame with projects like 'Volcano High' and 'Beautiful Days'. She later showcased her versatility in hits such as 'My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho,' 'Our Blues,' and the upcoming 2025 series 'Bad Relationship.'
Kim Woo-bin also began as a model in 2008, capturing audiences with roles in 'A Gentleman's Dignity' and 'The Heirs.' His career was interrupted by his health battle, but he made a powerful comeback with projects like 'Delivery Knight' and 'May All Your Wishes Come True,' supported unwaveringly by Shin Min-a. The presence of Beopryun at their wedding hints at a shared spiritual foundation that has seamlessly guided both their personal and professional lives.
The wedding, confirmed by their agency AM Entertainment and reported by Chosun Ilbo, was an intimate gathering for family and close friends only. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for a couple whose love story, tempered by adversity and elevated by compassion, continues to inspire.
