Actor Kim Jin, once a heartthrob, shocks fans with aged appearance at 53

Recent photos of actor Kim Jin, 53, widely known by his nickname "Annyeong Man," have drawn attention online. Once celebrated as an icon of youthful looks for his fair complexion, Kim has visibly aged, leaving fans surprised by how much his appearance has changed.

On Wednesday, Ko Ji-yong, a former member of idol group Sechs Kies, posted a photo on his SNS with the caption: "Together with my old Inkigayo MC hyung Kim Jin, reuniting after a long time."

The photo showed Ko and Kim catching up with a mutual acquaintance in the Euljiro area of Seoul.

The two first met through Inkigayo, where Kim served as MC while Ko performed with Sechs Kies. Seven years apart in age, they have maintained their friendship for nearly 30 years.

Ko, who recently addressed rumors about his health, drew attention for his healthy complexion and improved appearance.

Kim, born in 1973, presented a striking contrast — his face showing deep wrinkles and the unmistakable marks of time. Gone was the boyish, sharp-featured image he was known for on television; in its place was a noticeably more weathered and mature look.

Kim made his debut in 1993 in the musical "Guys and Dolls" before joining idol group Jwahoejeun, though the group failed to gain a following.

He later gained wider recognition through the sitcom "Three Men, Three Women," where he played a character who briefly crosses paths with Lee Je-ni and waves hello — earning him the nickname "Annyeong Man." Standing 180 centimeters tall with fair skin and classically handsome features, he became a notable presence on screen.

Kim went on to appear in a string of drama series, including "I Love You I Love You," "Tomato," "Sweet Bride," "Rules of Marriage," "Orange" and "White Lies," as well as various variety programs. After 2012, however, his acting credits dried up entirely, and he has been largely absent from the entertainment industry since.

Meanwhile, Kim was recently featured in posts on the official SNS account of a clinic in Cheongdam-dong, where he appeared to have undergone a cosmetic procedure.