Shin Min-Ah, Kim Woo-Bin Wedding Blessing Revealed: Monk Recalls Pair's Commitment During Actor's Cancer Battle

The officiating message delivered by Venerable Pomnyun Sunim at the wedding of beloved Korean actors Shin Min-Ah and Kim Woo-Bin has now been made public, giving a rare and deeply moving glimpse into the values

that framed their union. The couple tied the knot on December 20 at The Shilla Seoul in Jangchungdong, Jung-gu, Seoul, in a ceremony presided over by the respected Buddhist monk, who has shared a long-standing bond with them, particularly with Kim Woo-Bin.

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s message Shin Min-Ah and Kim Woo-Bin

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s connection with the couple dates back several years, most notably to 2017, when Kim Woo Bin was battling nasopharyngeal cancer. During that difficult period, the monk offered guidance and support, and since then, bothShin Min-Ah and Kim Woo-Bin have continued to find solace in his lectures and teachings. Through Jungto Society’s program A Monk’s Day, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim shared the full congratulatory message he delivered during the wedding ceremony.He began his officiating speech by warmly congratulating the couple, saying, “First of all, congratulations on your marriage. I have known both of you for a long time. Min Ah has a warm and kind heart, and for over a decade she has consistently supported underprivileged children. In particular, she has provided significant help to North Korean defectors who have settled in the South.”The monk went on to highlight Shin Min-Ah’s quiet but consistent philanthropic work, adding, “Children who arrive with defectors often struggle to adapt to South Korean society and frequently face bullying at school. Min Ah has steadily supported after-school programs that care for these children.” His words painted a picture of an actress whose compassion extends far beyond the spotlight.

Monk highlights Kim Woo-Bin’s cancer struggle and Shin Min-Ah’s support

Reflecting on the couple’s deep bond, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim recalled Kim Woo-Bin’s health struggles and Shin Min-Ah’s unwavering faith and support during that time. “There was a time when Woo Bin was suffering due to poor health. During that period, Min Ah carried offerings on her head and went to Gwanseeum Bodhisattva at Namsan in Gyeongju, praying together beyond religious boundaries. That Woo Bin was able to regain his health and that the two of them are now standing here today, holding hands and promising to spend their lives together, is truly the result of a profound connection.”Offering thoughtful advice about married life, he reminded the newlyweds of the realities of long-term companionship. “Living together is not easy. If every day felt like today, how wonderful would that be? As life goes on, differences in perspectives arise, and conflicts naturally follow. Many people believe that because a couple loves each other, they must be the same. While marriage brings many joys, it can also feel like a restriction on personal freedom, which leads to thoughts of wanting to leave. To overcome this, a married couple should not only seek warmth and dependence from one another but must also deeply respect each other’s individual freedom.”He also addressed the couple’s influence as public figures, emphasizing their responsibility beyond personal life. “Both of you are widely loved figures in our society. Any conflict between you does not remain a private matter but can affect society as a whole. Therefore, you must always be mindful of the social responsibility that comes with the honor you carry. Beyond your responsibilities as a husband and wife, you must also live in a way that does not betray the love the public has shown you.”Venerable Pomnyun Sunim further explained that marriage should be a path toward greater freedom rather than confinement, rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and independence. He also touched upon the responsibilities that come with parenthood, should they choose that path in the future.Concluding his message, he said, “Please always remember that because you are a couple who receives national love, you also carry a social responsibility that aligns with that love. If you keep this in mind, the happiness you feel today will continue to grow into even greater happiness throughout your lives.”It is said that Shin Min-Ah and Kim Woo-Bin listened intently and took his words to heart as they vowed to spend a lifetime together. Their wedding was attended by several top stars, including Lee Kwang-Soo, Ahn Bo-Hyun, EXO’s Doh Kyung-Soo (D.O.), BTS’ V, Kim Tae-Ri, and Uhm Jung-Hwa, all of whom gathered to celebrate and bless the couple on their new journey.