Lee Hong-gi from 'Radio Star' clarified the dating rumors with Japanese gravure model Ai Shinozaki.
The MBC entertainment show 'Radio Star' (hereinafter 'RS'), which aired on the 16th, featured special guests Jang Geun-suk, Lee Hong-gi, Subin, and Kim Shin-young.
On this day, Lee Hong-gi drew attention by saying that he is as popular in Japan as he is also disliked, noting that he was selected as one of the top 10 Koreans disliked by Japanese people. He mentioned Kim Yuna, the late Lee Kun-hee, and Ahn Jung-geun.
Regarding the reason for his selection, he shared, "Wasn't I too honest in my reviews on Japanese broadcasts? There was a segment comparing foods in the show. It asked which looked more expensive, and as soon as I tasted it, I knew the answer. I said, 'Why does this look cheap?' because it was made in Japan. I made a remark that it was too thick and not tasty."
While quietly listening, Jang Geun-suk revealed, "All this is just an excuse, and dating rumors blew up." It turned out that Lee Hong-gi had dating rumors with a Japanese top-class star at that time. Surprised, Lee Hong-gi stuttered, saying, "I didn't know about that. I had no idea that friend was so popular in Korea. There were so many. It's Ai Shinozaki, a friend who is a gravure model."
Then, Kim Gook-jin remarked, "If we hadn't talked about it, I would have thought it was because of the pancake," to which Lee Hong-gi lamented, "This shouldn't be discussed this way." Nevertheless, Jang Geun-suk pointed out, "It seems like you're writing your own drama. This is the first I've heard of pancake talk."
Lee Hong-gi said, "At that time, on January 1, I overcame the dating rumors," adding, "I can accurately state the facts. It was not a dating rumor. It wasn't at that time," hinting once again at the dating rumors. When the MCs pressed, "What about now?" Lee Hong-gi explained, "Dōmo-dachi (friend)."
In response, Jang Geun-suk stated, "The ripple effect is so big that comments are still being posted. They say, 'Lee Hong-gi is fine because he had that friend.'"
Meanwhile, Lee Hong-gi was embroiled in dating rumors with Ai Shinozaki in April 2015 through a media outlet. At the time, he drew the line, stating through an FNC Entertainment representative, "We are friends, but it is not a romantic relationship."
[Photo] Captured from the broadcast screen of 'Radio Star.'
[OSEN]