Singer-actor IU, 33, and actor Lee Jong-suk, 37, ended their relationship four years after going public.
On the 10th, IU's agency EDAM Entertainment and Lee Jong-suk's agency A-Man Project acknowledged the breakup. Both sides said, "The two have ended their romantic relationship and decided to remain good colleagues who will support each other going forward."
IU and Lee Jong-suk formed a connection in 2012 when they co-hosted SBS' live music program "Inkigayo." After spending many years as colleagues, the two developed into a couple in 2022 and officially acknowledged their relationship in December of the same year.
At the time, the two drew major attention as a top-star couple representing the music and acting scenes. In particular, Lee Jong-suk made headlines when, after winning the grand prize at the 2022 "MBC Drama Awards," he said, "I want to say I have liked (this person) very much for a very long time," openly referring to his feelings for IU.
However, as both continued their busy schedules, their relationship naturally grew distant, and they ultimately decided to remain colleagues who support each other's futures.
Debuting as a singer in 2008, IU released numerous hit songs such as "Good Day" and "Through the Night," establishing herself as a leading solo artist in Korea. She later broadened her work as an actor by appearing in the dramas "My Mister," "When Life Gives You Tangerines," and "Perfect Crown."
Former model Lee Jong-suk began acting in 2010 with the drama "Prosecutor Princess." He went on to gain both commercial success and critical recognition through "I Can Hear Your Voice," "Pinocchio," and "Big Mouth," and is now set to release the Disney+ original series "The Remarried Empress."