Shocking split wave: Even under the spotlight, some of Korea’s most beloved longtime couples are parting ways. After Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung and actor Jung Kyung-ho ended their 14-year relationship, fans are revisiting other long-term romances that ultimately led to heartbreaking breakups — from Lee Dong-hwi and Jung Ho-yeon to Ryu Jun-yeol and Hyeri. Here’s how they met, why the buzz won’t die down, and where they are now.
Bonded as Chung-Ang University theater and film alumni, Sooyoung and Jung Kyung-ho began dating in 2012 and went public in 2014. Jung often expressed his affection for Sooyoung in interviews and on shows, while Sooyoung balanced her acting and Girls’ Generation schedules with a steady, low-key relationship. Despite staying cautious whenever marriage rumors flared, many believed they would eventually tie the knot. On the 9th, however, both agencies confirmed their breakup, stating they would remain good colleagues. They did not disclose the reason, citing privacy. This year, Sooyoung has been active in dramas such as I DOL I and The Practical Guide to Love, and she’s gearing up for the release of the film Okay! Madam 2. Jung Kyung-ho is currently filming the drama Tempting Romance.
Lee Dong-hwi and Jung Ho-yeon started dating in 2015 and confirmed their relationship in 2016. With a nine-year age gap and powerhouse, distinct careers, they were celebrated as one of the industry’s most unique long-running couples. Lee expanded his acting profile after the drama Reply 1988, while Jung skyrocketed to global fame with Netflix’s Squid Game. The two never hid their support for each other, naturally mentioning their partner at official events and on variety shows — winning fans’ cheers. In November 2024, however, both sides acknowledged their breakup and said they would remain good colleagues. As with others, no specific reason was revealed. This year, Lee met audiences through the film Method acting, and Jung is set for the July release of Na Hong-jin’s new film Hope.
Ryu Jun-yeol and Hyeri became a real-life couple after starring together in the drama Reply 1988. While viewers were torn by the show’s first-love triangle between Sung Deok-sun and Kim Jung-hwan, the news that the two were dating in real life sparked massive buzz. They confirmed their relationship in 2017 and dated publicly for about six years. Without overexposure, they still stood as a symbolic couple to fans — as if the drama had come to life. In 2023, the two broke up. Although no details were shared, rumors of Ryu’s rebound dating at the time stirred controversy. Ryu is awaiting the release of the Netflix series field mouse, while Hyeri will greet audiences through the film Tropical night and the drama Dream to You.
Why do these long-term breakups hit harder? Because the public felt like they grew up alongside these couples. Still, a long relationship doesn’t guarantee marriage. Their stories show that even enduring love can reach different destinations. While fans may be disappointed, these years will live on with new meaning in each star’s career and life.