Shinhwa (신화)

Who is Shinhwa?

Shinhwa (신화), meaning “Legend” in Korean, is the longest-running K-pop boy group, debuting on March 24, 1998, under SM Entertainment. Despite changing agencies and evolving music styles, Shinhwa remains one of the most respected and influential groups in the Korean music industry. Shinhwa members: Eric Mun, Lee Min-woo, Kim Dong-wan, Shin Hye-sung, Jun Jin, Andy Lee.

Shinhwa Members Biodata | Profiles

Get to know the legendary members of Shinhwa. Below, the detailed biodata of each Shinhwa member, including their birthdays, roles, and personal achievements.

Eric Mun (에릭 문)

Full Name: Mun Jung-hyuk (문정혁)
Birthdate: February 16, 1979
Role: Leader, Rapper, Actor
Notable Works: “Phoenix,” “Que Sera Sera,” CEO of Shinhwa Company

Lee Min-woo (이민우)

Full Name: Lee Min-woo (이민우)
Birthdate: July 28, 1979
Role: Vocalist, Dancer, Solo Artist
Solo Career: Released multiple albums under “M”

Kim Dong-wan (김동완)

Full Name: Kim Dong-wan (김동완)
Birthdate: November 21, 1979
Role: Vocalist, Actor
Notable Works: “Goodbye Sadness,” “The Peak”

Shin Hye-sung (신혜성)

Full Name: Jung Pil-kyo (정필교)
Birthdate: November 27, 1979
Role: Main Vocalist
Solo Career: Known for ballads and OST contributions

Jun Jin (전진)

Full Name: Park Choong-jae (박충재)
Birthdate: August 19, 1980
Role: Rapper, Dancer, Variety Star
TV Shows: “We Got Married,” “Infinite Challenge”

Andy Lee (앤디 리)

Full Name: Lee Sun-ho (이선호)
Birthdate: January 21, 1981
Role: Rapper, Producer
Notable Works: Founder of TOP Media, managing TEEN TOP

Why Shinhwa is a K-pop Legend

Shinhwa set the standard for longevity and independence in K-pop. After leaving SM Entertainment in 2003, they established their own company, Shinhwa Company, proving that idols could control their own careers.

Their dedication to their fans, known as Shinhwa Changjo, has been unwavering, making them a model for younger K-pop groups.

Top Shinhwa Songs

• “T.O.P” (1999)
• “Perfect Man” (2002)
• “Brand New” (2004)
• “This Love” (2013)
• “Sniper” (2015)

The History of Shinhwa K-pop’s Longest-Running Group

From their debut in 1998 to becoming K-pop legends, Shinhwa’s journey is one of resilience and success.

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1998: Debut Under SM Entertainment

Shinhwa debuted on March 24, 1998, under SM Entertainment with their first album, “Resolver.” Despite early struggles, they gained recognition with songs like “T.O.P” and “Only One.”

2000-2003: Rise to Stardom

With hits like “Perfect Man” (2002) and “Hey, Come On!” (2001), Shinhwa established themselves as one of Korea’s top idol groups. They won numerous awards and built a strong fanbase, Shinhwa Changjo.

2003: Leaving SM Entertainment & Independence

In 2003, Shinhwa left SM Entertainment and signed with Good Entertainment. Unlike many groups that disband after leaving their original company, Shinhwa remained united and continued making music.

2004-2008: Continued Success & Solo Activities

Shinhwa released “Brand New” (2004), which became one of their most iconic songs. During this period, members also began solo careers in acting, variety shows, and solo music projects.

2008-2011: Military Service & Hiatus

As military service is mandatory in South Korea, Shinhwa went on hiatus while members enlisted. Despite this, they promised to return as a group after completing their service.

2012-Present: Comeback & Shinhwa Company

In 2012, Shinhwa returned with their 10th album, “The Return,” and established their own agency, Shinhwa Company. They continued releasing albums like “This Love” (2013) and “Sniper” (2015), proving their lasting impact.

Shinhwa set the standard for group longevity, independence, and dedication to fans. Their ability to stay together for over two decades makes them one of the most respected K-pop acts in history.

Studio Albums

• 1998: Resolver
• 1999: T.O.P.
• 2000: Only One
• 2001: Hey, Come On!
• 2002: Perfect Man
• 2002: Wedding
• 2004: Brand New
• 2006: State of the Art
• 2008: Volume 9
• 2012: The Return
• 2013: The Classic
• 2015: We
• 2017: Unchanging: Touch

Notable Singles

• “Resolver” (1998)
• “T.O.P” (1999)
• “Only One” (2000)
• “Hey, Come On!” (2001)
• “Perfect Man” (2002)
• “Brand New” (2004)
• “Once in a Lifetime” (2006)
• “Venus” (2012)
• “This Love” (2013)
• “Sniper” (2015)
• “Touch” (2017)

Special Albums & Compilations

• 2001: My Choice (Best Album)
• 2003: Winter Story
• 2007: Winter Story 2007
• 2016: Unchanging Part 1 & 2

Interesting Facts About Shinhwa | K-pop Legends

Discover some interesting facts about Shinhwa, the legendary K-pop group with the longest-running career in the industry.

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General Facts

• Shinhwa debuted on March 24, 1998, making them the longest-running K-pop group without disbandment.
• Their name “Shinhwa” (신화) means “Legend” in Korean, which perfectly represents their career.
• They are the first K-pop group to establish their own company, Shinhwa Company, proving their independence.
• Shinhwa was one of the first K-pop groups to successfully transition from an idol group to respected artists.

Achievements & Records

• They are the only first-generation idol group that has stayed together for over two decades.
• Shinhwa won the Daesang (Grand Prize) at the SBS Music Awards in 2004 with their hit album “Brand New.”
• They are known for their synchronized and powerful dance performances, inspiring many younger idol groups.
• Their 2013 song “This Love” featured a unique “Voguing Dance,” a style rarely seen in K-pop.

Fun Facts About Members

• Eric Mun is not only Shinhwa’s leader but also a successful actor and CEO.
• Lee Min-woo is known for his solo career under the stage name “M.”
• Kim Dong-wan is heavily involved in charity work and has donated to various causes over the years.
• Shin Hye-sung was the first member to be recruited and is recognized for his emotional ballads.
• Jun Jin is famous for his high-energy performances and variety show appearances.
• Andy Lee helped produce and mentor several K-pop groups, including TEEN TOP.

Shinhwa Changjo – Their Loyal Fanbase

• Shinhwa’s official fandom name is “Shinhwa Changjo” (신화창조), which means “Creating Legend.”
• Shinhwa Changjo is one of the oldest K-pop fandoms, dating back to 1998.
• Fans have remained loyal to Shinhwa for decades, showing their strong bond with the group.

Shinhwa Official Social Media Accounts

Stay connected with Shinhwa through their official social media channels.

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Group Accounts

• Official Website: shinhwacompany .co .kr
• Instagram: @shinhwa_official
• Twitter: @ShinhwaCompany
• YouTube: youtube . com/user/shinhwacompany
• Facebook: facebook . com/ShinhwaCompany

Individual Member Accounts

• Eric Mun’s Instagram: @muneric
• Lee Min-woo’s Instagram: @ljn_m
• Kim Dong-wan’s Instagram: @dw_kim
• Shin Hye-sung: –
• Jun Jin’s Instagram: @JunJinReal
• Andy Lee’s Instagram: @andyofficial___

Shinhwa’s Lasting Legacy

Shinhwa‘s influence on the K-pop industry is undeniable. They were among the first to establish full group independence, inspiring future idols to pursue long-lasting careers beyond their agencies. Their music, performances, and variety show appearances continue to be celebrated worldwide.