Exploring the Trend of Celebrities Fearlessly Embracing Love and Going Public with Their Relationships
In today's world, even celebrities are boldly admitting their romantic relationships. This year, the entertainment industry has witnessed the emergence of several top-star couples. Starting with IU and Lee Jongsuk in January, followed by actors Lim Jieun and Lee Dohyun in April, and most recently, Blackpink's Jisoo and actor Ahn Bohyun confirming their relationships.
◇ January 1st: IU ♥ Lee Jongsuk
IU and Lee Jongsuk officially confirmed their relationship on December 31st of the previous year through their respective agencies. They stated, "We have developed a serious relationship as close colleagues and are continuing to cherish it."
During the 2022 MBC Drama Awards held on December 30th, Lee Jongsuk's award acceptance speech hinted at his gratitude towards someone special. The next day, it was revealed that the person he was grateful for was IU.
On New Year's Day, both IU and Lee Jongsuk left lengthy messages on their fan cafes expressing their feelings for each other. IU referred to Lee Jongsuk as a reliable and adorable person. In response, Lee Jongsuk described IU as a sister, a friend to protect, and someone who motivates him to become a better person.
Their connection dates back to 2012 when they hosted SBS's "Inkigayo" together, displaying great chemistry with their lively interactions. Despite initial differences, they grew closer and became inseparable friends.
Thus, IU and Lee Jongsuk became the first official celebrity couple of the year.
◇ April 1st: Lim Jieun ♥ Lee Dohyun
Lim Jieun and Lee Dohyun's dating news seemed almost like an April Fool's joke. Their relationship blossomed during the filming of Netflix's "The Glories." Although there were hardly any scenes of them together in the series, they rapidly became close towards the end of the drama. From being sunbae (senior) and hoobae (junior) to lovers, they enjoyed dates near Lee Dohyun's home or at nature resorts.
Both agencies confirmed their relationship, stating that they have warm feelings for each other and are carefully getting to know each other.
Their public appearances often included references to each other. During the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards on April 28th, Lim Jieun won the Best Supporting Actress award for "The Glories." In her acceptance speech, she mentioned various people involved in the drama and ended with "and Dohyun too," expressing her affection for Lee Dohyun.
In the tvN show "You Quiz on the Block," she even mentioned Lee Dohyun, saying he regretted performing the techtonic dance on the program.
Lee Dohyun, in a June interview after the JTBC drama "Bad and Crazy" ended, talked about Lim Jieun and how they encourage and support each other.
Thus, Lim Jieun and Lee Dohyun became the second official celebrity couple of the year.
◇ August 3rd: Jisoo ♥ Ahn Bohyun
The most recent couple to confirm their relationship is Jisoo and Ahn Bohyun. They officially admitted to dating on August 3rd, receiving attention both domestically and internationally. YG Entertainment, Jisoo's agency, stated they are getting to know each other with good feelings. Similarly, FN Entertainment, Ahn Bohyun's agency, expressed their hope for warm support.
Although the specifics of how they met and developed their relationship remain undisclosed, rumors suggest that their shared interests in acting, music, and fashion brought them closer. They attended the VIP screening of the movie "Smugglers" together at Megabox COEX in Seoul on July 20th.
This admission is particularly notable as Jisoo is the first Blackpink member to officially confirm a relationship, which is rare in the K-pop entertainment industry.
As the year is only halfway through, there is a possibility of more super-star couples emerging in the coming months.