Actors Lee Dong-hwi, 39, and Jung Ho-yeon, 30, one of the longest-standing couples in the entertainment industry, have officially ended their nine-year relationship.
Both actors’ agencies confirmed the split, stating that the couple has decided to return to being good colleagues.
Lee and Jung started dating publicly in 2016, making their breakup a significant event in the industry. Despite their separation, the two had maintained a strong connection throughout their relationship.
Jung, who gained international fame for her role in Squid Game as Kang Sae-byeok, a North Korean defector, often spoke fondly of Lee at public events.
Similarly, Lee referenced Jung in an episode of the ENA variety show Kwak Jun-bin’s World Taxi Restaurant 2 in August, expressing his affection while speaking about her character in Squid Game.
Both actors are continuing with their respective careers. Jung recently appeared in the Apple TV+ series Disclaimer and is preparing for the release of the film Hope directed by Na Hong-jin. Lee, meanwhile, is set to star in the new tvN variety show Rented in Finland and will perform in the play The Lives of Others starting Wednesday.