Lee Min Jung criticized for photo taken before church altar during Venice film festival visit

Actress Lee Min Jung has found herself at the center of unexpected controversy after accompanying her husband, Lee Byung Hun, to the '82nd Venice International Film Festival.'

Lee traveled to Venice after the film 'No Other Choice,' starring her husband, was officially invited to the competition section. While in Italy, she was seen sightseeing with the film’s lead actress, Son Ye Jin, and shared photos on social media, including snapshots taken by Son herself.

The controversy erupted over one particular photo taken inside a church. In the image, Lee posed in front of a crucifix at the altar while holding a luxury handbag in a way that drew attention to it. Critics argued that both the location and her pose were inappropriate. Some fans and online users condemned the act. 

Comments expressed that taking photos inside the church was disrespectful, offensive, and careless. Many noted that using the altar or crucifix as a backdrop for fashion or playful posing was inappropriate, with one remarking that such behavior might be acceptable outside but not inside the church.

However, there were also voices defending Lee. Some suggested she may not have been aware of the implications. Comments included, “If photography was allowed, it would not have been strictly forbidden,” and “Not being a Catholic, she might not have realized.” Still, once it became known that the photo was taken directly on the altar, criticism spread more widely.

Lee Min Jung has since continued sharing moments from Venice but has not released any statement regarding the controversy.

Meanwhile, director Park Chan Wook’s film 'No Other Choice' premiered on August 29 in Venice to strong reviews from major international outlets, with many predicting awards success. The film has also been selected as South Korea’s official submission for the '2026 Academy Awards' in the International Feature Film category.