Choi Ji-woo and Lee Jin-wook
Recently, South Korea's entertainment industry has been buzzing with frequent good news, as several celebrities have successively made their relationships public. Choi Ji-woo and Lee Jin-wook, Cha Ye-ryun and Lee Dong-wook, Kang Hye-jung and Tablo, Han Ga-eun and Kim Dong-won have all become the focus of media attention. While celebrity couples in the entertainment industry are not uncommon, it is rare for so many to publicly announce their relationships at the same time, which has given the South Korean media plenty to talk about.
Facing relentless "pursuit" by journalists, Choi Ji-woo finally responded to the media on March , after being exposed in February as having a passionate romance with Lee Jin-wook. Choi Ji-woo said: "The relationship between me and Lee Jin-wook still needs to be observed. If there is any good news, I will definitely inform everyone first." When asked about plans for marriage, Choi Ji-woo candidly replied: "I haven't thought about this issue yet. In any case, if there is good news, I will definitely tell everyone."
In contrast to Choi Ji-woo reluctantly confirming her relationship, Kang Hye-jung publicly announced her relationship on a KBS2TV program. On the show, Kang Hye-jung not only openly revealed her relationship but also disclosed that she refers to her boyfriend Tablo as "mine," showcasing the sweetness of their relationship. Not long after, Tablo, during a media interview, also freely discussed his relationship with Kang Hye-jung: "Because of Kang Hye-jung, I feel very happy. She always brings me endless energy, and I am really grateful to her. Our worldviews are extremely similar... Because of her, I have become more positive."
South Korean media reports on the phenomenon of celebrities publicly announcing their relationships from various perspectives, with some even studying the reasons behind this trend. According to speculation by South Korean media, the most plausible explanation is "the financial crisis fostering good relationships." Affected by the global financial crisis, South Korean celebrities have seen a significant reduction in their work opportunities and overseas activities, giving them more time to nurture their romantic relationships.
A talent agent who has been working in South Korea's entertainment industry for 5 years said: "In the past, celebrities occasionally went on trips with staff, but such activities have decreased significantly this year. The private time we agents spend with celebrities has also diminished, perhaps providing celebrities with more space to fall in love."
On the other hand, idol romances used to have a significant impact on fans, but recently, fans' perceptions have changed, recognizing that celebrities' private lives are just that—private. Without the psychological pressure, celebrities are no longer willing to hide their relationships secretly; instead, they choose to openly declare their feelings.