Over the past two decades, Song Hye-kyo has been celebrated as one of South Korea’s most iconic actresses: talented, extraordinary, reserved and fiercely dignified. Despite her enviable career, fame and adoration, love has been a source of deep pain for the actress, with her first public romance proving to be the most emotionally impactful.
Baeksang 2025 Tribute Resurfaces Song Hye Kyo and Lee Byung Hun’s Tragic Romance
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In 2003, South Korea was entering the golden age of television dramas. Everything insidea series inspired by the life of a legendary gambler, it quickly became a sensation. The drama starred Lee Byung-hun, a 33-year-old seasoned actor, and Song Hye-kyo, then 22, fresh off her national “first love” image from Autumn in my heart.
The chemistry between the two was immediate and undeniable, particularly while filming in Las Vegas where they shared a romantic kiss. The series premiered on SBS on 15 January 2003, garnering average ratings of 35–40% and earning the pair the nickname “the Romeo and Juliet of the gambling world”.
Off-screen, Lee Byung-hun’s maturity and protective gestures fascinated Song Hye-kyo. Despite attempting to keep their relationship private, paparazzi captured secret encounters on Jeju Island and in Las Vegas, sparking public fascination.
From romance on screen to love in real life
After the drama concluded, both agencies confirmed the romance. For Song Hye-kyo, it was her first public love and made headlines because of the age difference: 22 and 33 years old. Fans were divided: some loved the couple, while others criticized the age difference. However, the couple appeared happy at public events, including the 2003 SBS Drama Awards, where Lee Byung-hun won the Daesang.
During 2003-2004 their relationship flourished. They attended weddings and awards shows together, sharing subtle but intimate gestures. Lee Byung-hun’s mother even encouraged him to propose, hoping that Song Hye-kyo would join the family. Despite his booming career with Sold outSong Hye-kyo has found time for love.
The cracks are starting to show
Over time, demanding schedules – Lee Byung-hun’s Hollywood projects and Song Hye-kyo’s busy drama shoot – have cut into their time together. Rumors of lifestyle differences, with Lee Byung-hun’s mature demeanor contrasting with Song Hye-kyo’s youthful desire for freedom, began to circulate.
In April 2004, following the death of Lee Byung-hun’s father, Song Hye-kyo stayed away from the funeral to avoid causing further stress. Fans speculated about the main topics and media attention intensified. In May 2004, the couple officially separated, citing “personality differences and commitments”. Yet behind the diplomatic pronouncements, the relationship had ended painfully, with persistent rumors swirling about alleged conflicts and outside influences, none of which have been confirmed.
A love that left an indelible mark
The breakup left Song Hye-kyo heartbroken. At 23, she faced her first major public heartbreak while at the peak of her career. Friends reported that she became withdrawn, lost sleep and experienced mild depression. In contrast, Lee Byung-hun seemed to recover more quickly, attending events and filming new projects, further highlighting his pain.
Years later, in a 2014 interview with Fuji TV, Song Hye-kyo candidly admitted: “The love that left the deepest impression on me was my first love.” Fans and cultural critics alike recognize this early romance with Lee Byung-hun as a defining moment, which shaped her quieter, more introspective approach to love in later years.
Moving forward: strength and resilience
Today, Song Hye-kyo has emerged as a symbol of modern femininity: independent, strong and accomplished. From Sold out AND Descendants of the sun TO The Gloryhas proven its enduring presence and resilience in the competitive entertainment industry.
Her first love with Lee Byung-hun, although bittersweet, marked a period of profound growth. It taught her the value of emotional depth, patience and self-respect, lessons that made her not only a beloved actress but also a woman of strength and poise.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
