GroupShinhwa Company
Shinhwa
Shinhwa (신화) is South Korea's longest-running idol group, active since March 24, 1998, and the only first-generation K-pop group to have maintained their original lineup across nearly three decades. The six-member group -- Eric, Lee Min Woo, Shin Hye-sung, Kim Dong-wan, Jun Jin, and Andy -- debuted under SM Entertainment before moving to Good Entertainment in 2003 and then Shinhwa Company, their own label founded in 2011 to secure full ownership of the group name and catalog.
Shinhwa pioneered the template for idol group longevity in the Korean market: managing military service rotations without disbanding, shifting independent from major agencies, and cultivating a fanbase called Shinhwa Changjo (신화창조) that has followed them continuously through every era. Their discography spans more than 15 studio albums, with landmark albums including State of the Art (2015) and Heart (2018).
Beyond music, individual members have built parallel careers in acting, variety, and business. Eric serves as group CEO and has starred in multiple hit dramas. Lee Min Woo operates LeanBranding and was the first member to pursue solo music. Shin Hye-sung is recognized as one of the finest vocalists of his generation. Kim Dong-wan has built a notable acting career, and Jun Jin and Andy have both remained active performers through solo music and variety work.
In 2026, Lee Min Woo became the fourth Shinhwa member to marry, with the wedding on March 29, 2026 in Seoul attended by the entire Shinhwa lineup.
1 articles8 creditsDebut: March 24, 1998South Korean
Gallery
Discography
2022
Come To LifeSingle
Sub-Unit (Shinhwa WDJ)
2018
HeartAlbum
Full Group
2015
State of the ArtAlbum
Full Group
2012
The ReturnAlbum
Full Group
2004
Brand NewAlbum
Full Group
2000
Perfect ManSingle
Full Group
1999
T.O.P.Album
Full Group
1998
Haegyeolsa (Resolver)Album
Full Group
Fans Also Ask
How long has Shinhwa been active?
Shinhwa debuted on March 24, 1998, making them South Koreas longest-running idol group with an unbroken career spanning nearly three decades. They are the only first-generation K-pop group to maintain their original six-member lineup throughout their entire run, without any permanent departures.
Who are the members of Shinhwa?
Shinhwa has six members: Eric (leader), Lee Min Woo (Minwoo), Shin Hye-sung (Hyesung), Kim Dong-wan (Dongwan), Jun Jin (Junjin), and Andy. All six debuted together in March 1998 and have remained together throughout the groups entire career.
What label is Shinhwa under?
Shinhwa operates under Shinhwa Company, the independent label they founded in 2011 to take full ownership of the group name, image rights, and music catalog. Eric Mun and Lee Min Woo serve as co-CEOs. This move made them one of the first major K-pop acts to self-manage their intellectual property.
Has Shinhwa ever had a member leave?
No. Shinhwa is the only major first-generation K-pop group to maintain their original lineup without any permanent member departures. All six members, Eric, Lee Min Woo, Shin Hye-sung, Kim Dong-wan, Jun Jin, and Andy, have remained together since their 1998 debut.
Why is Shinhwa considered legendary in K-pop?
Shinhwa is called legendary for their unmatched longevity: the only first-generation K-pop group still together with all original members after more than 25 years. They were also the first Korean boy band to continue after all members completed mandatory military service, paving a path that future groups now follow.
