IU and Lee Jong-seok, Breakup After Four Years Shakes Asia [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Yeon Ye-gye (CEO) Couple singer-actress IU and actor Lee Jong-seok have broken up after four years of public dating, drawing attention from overseas media as well.

Lee Jong-seok's agency Ace Factory told StarNews on the 10th, "The two have broken up," adding, "They have decided to remain good colleagues." Regarding specific details such as the reason and timing of the breakup, the agency stated, "As this is a matter of personal privacy for the actors, we regret that we cannot provide further answers and ask for your understanding."

IU's agency EDAM Entertainment also confirmed, "It is true that the two have broken up," and added, "They have decided to remain good colleagues."

The two first met in 2012 as MCs on SBS's music program 'Inkigayo' and maintained a friendship before developing into a romantic relationship in 2022. Their dating was revealed when Lee Jong-seok gave an acceptance speech after winning the Grand Prize at the '2022 MBC Drama Awards' for his role in the drama 'Big Mouth.' At the time, he said, "When I had just finished my military service and was filled with fear and worries, there was someone who guided me in a positive direction and helped me think positively. I am grateful to that person."

It was later revealed that "that person" referred to IU, and both agencies acknowledged the relationship. The two, who had been together for four years, gradually saw their meetings decrease as their busy schedules continued, and they ultimately decided to go their separate ways.

Previously, IU and Lee Jong-seok were frequently surrounded by breakup rumors, but each time it turned out to be a misunderstanding. However, with both sides now directly confirming the breakup, this marks the end of their relationship.

As both were top star couples enjoying global popularity, local Asian media outlets in Japan, China, and other countries rushed to report the news as breaking stories. Multiple Japanese media outlets reported it immediately, while on Chinese portal Sina.com and Chinese social network Weibo, the announcement of IU and Lee Jong-seok's breakup quickly rose to the top of trending topics, drawing intense public interest.

Meanwhile, Lee Jong-seok is set to release the Disney+ original series 'The Remarried Empress.' Following the conclusion of her MBC drama '21st Century Grand Duchess' last May, IU will continue her main career activities by holding a solo concert at Goyang Stadium's main field in September.

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*This content was translated by AI.