Actor Jung Kyung Ho and Girls’ Generation member actress Choi Sooyoung have reportedly split after 14 years together, marking the end of one of the Korean entertainment industry’s most beloved long-term relationships.
As news of their breakup broke, fans expressed sadness at the end of a couple who had long been considered a symbol of enduring love in K-entertainment. The two had been publicly dating since officially confirming their relationship in January 2014, although reports say they started dating in 2012.
On June 9, both agencies confirmed the breakup. Jung Kyung Ho’s agency, Management Allum, stated that the actor and Sooyoung had indeed separated, explaining that their busy schedules had gradually created distance in the relationship. Sooyoung’s agency, Saram Entertainment, also confirmed the split, adding that the two decided to remain good colleagues.
In the wake of the breakup news, Jung Kyung Ho’s past comments about Sooyoung have resurfaced online, drawing renewed attention from fans.
About nine months ago, during an interview for the film BossJung Kyung Ho has openly expressed his affection for Sooyoung. He said it once the film came out, he hoped to see it with her in theaters.
In Bossdirected by Ra Hee Chan, Jung Kyung Ho played Kang Pyo, a former gangster who dedicates his life to tango dancing. The actor performed the tango himself for the role.
When asked if he had always been interested in dancing, Jung Kyung Ho explained that he initially expected the character to play the piano instead of dancing the tango. He admitted that he was actually relieved by the change, joking that playing an instrument seemed even harder.
The actor also made fans laugh when asked if Sooyoung, a member of Girls’ Generation known for her dancing skills, had given him lessons. Jung Kyung Ho responded humorously, saying: “I couldn’t even dare ask him,” adding that she probably would have just accepted.
He further shared that Sooyoung wasn’t able to watch the film during the filming schedule, but said he hoped they could eventually see it together in theaters, a comment that many fans now look back on with bittersweet feelings.
Their affectionate relationship continued to gain attention earlier this year. During a broadcast related to fiction Pro Bono Late last year, Jung Kyung Ho was asked what the last idol he liked was. In response, she called out Girls’ Generation and even attempted to dance to the group’s hit song “Genie,” making onlookers laugh. The clip then went viral online with the headline: “When asked about his favorite idol, Jung Kyung Ho suddenly turns into Sooyoung’s biggest fan.”
Over the years, the couple had never hesitated to publicly express gratitude and affection for each other, making the split especially emotional for longtime supporters.
Despite the end of their romantic relationship, both stars are expected to continue their active careers. Jung Kyung Ho is currently filming the next drama A tempting love storydue out next year, while Sooyoung will appear in Shakespeare’s classic play The Merchant of Venice at the Haeoreum Grand Theater of the National Theater of Korea from July 8 to August 9.
Sources: Daum
