In online communities, the status of the 1st-gen idol, who captured hearts with his visuals and charisma, caught attention. In his recent photo, people expressed concerns due to the drastic change in his visuals.

On December 13, Eric Mun, leader of the longest-existing first-generation boy group SHINHWA, became a hot topic among K-pop fans. This is after a photo revealing his recent status circulated on various online forums, then sparking concerns about his health.

SHINHWA Eric Mun Before Vs After: Idol's Drastic Change in Visuals Sparks Worries

In the photo released, Eric Mun was seen doing a V-pose wearing a plain black shirt and hat. It seems like the photo was taken with someone and has been cropped.

While fans expressed their delight seeing him again after his temporary hiatus, many fans showed concerns due to his shocking appearance.

Looking at the image, Eric wasn't wearing makeup, exposing his somewhat swollen eyes and face. His sharp jawline from the past is nowhere to be seen aside from his dark beard marks.

According to fans, he looks tired and they can't believe he changed so much from the Eric Mun they grew up with.

ALSO READ: Where is Shinhwa Now? The Longest-Running K-pop Group and First Band to Establish Their Own Company

In particular, the idol and actor used to praised for his big round eyes, double eyelids, sharp jawline, and manly facial features on top of his sexy and solid physique. Due to his visuals, he was considered a Korean heartthrob, not only capturing K-pop fans but also K-drama lovers.

However, the image of this Eric Mun remained in the past, as he showed the visuals of a 44-year-old man now.

Upon seeing this photos, people showed concern and wrote comments such as:

• "Are you sick?"
• "I feel like his time has passed."
• "This is shocking."
• "Was it that hard watching your child?"
• "Time is indeed harsh."
• "I'm worried about your health."
• "Are you not in pain anywhere?"

Fans Defend Eric Mun's Change in Visuals

On the flip side, some defended the idol, stating that his visuals are actually the same, but he just didn't have the beauty maintenance he used to have before.

Currently, Eric is on a hiatus after marrying actress Na Hye Mi in 2017 and giving birth to a child in April.

Based on the couple's SNS, Eric Mun is busy helping his wife raise their kid and is living a happy married life. Fans are convinced that his visuals will return once he resumes his activities and manages his physical appearance again.

Some of the responses are:

• "You'll become handsome again once he returns to his activities."
• "That's because he's not wearing makeup."
• "Celebrities are also people. They have their bad and good days."
• "They are also human and it is nice to see them not trying to look good all the time."

Meanwhile, Eric made his debut in 1998, and he is currently active as Shinhwa. He is also active as an actor, notable for his works such as, "Phoenix," and "Another Miss Oh."

Eric's last activity was MBC's 'The Spies Who Loved Me', which aired in 2020. With Eric taking a break from his acting career for about three years, fans look forward to seeing him come back through his work.

READ MORE: 7 Longest-Running K-pop Groups: SHINHWA, BIGBANG, More

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Written by Eunice Dawson.