On the evening of March 2, 2026, viewers tuning in to TV CHOSUN’s popular reality show Joseon’s Lovers were treated to a rare, candid glimpse into the personal lives of some of South Korea’s most beloved entertainers. The episode, which aired at 10 p.m., featured veteran actor Kim Yong-gun visiting the home of his second son, Cha Hyun-woo, and daughter-in-law, actress Hwang Bo-ra. But what truly caught the public’s attention was the open discussion about the relationship between actor Ha Jung-woo and his longtime girlfriend, actress Cha Jung-won—a romance that has quietly unfolded behind the scenes for years.
The show’s family setting was warm and familiar, with Kim Yong-gun spending quality time with his grandson Woo-in while Hwang Bo-ra played host. As the cameras rolled, an unexpected topic surfaced: the much-speculated love story of Ha Jung-woo and Cha Jung-won. It was prompted, almost serendipitously, when a plush doll resembling Ha Jung-woo’s face appeared in the living room, sparking curiosity among the show’s panelists and guests.
Comedian Kim Guk-jin, ever the inquisitive presence, turned to Hwang Bo-ra and asked, “Have you met Cha Jung-won?” Hwang Bo-ra, known for her frankness, replied without hesitation, “We see each other often. They’ve been together for a long time.” Her words confirmed what many fans had suspected but rarely heard directly from those closest to the couple.
As the conversation unfolded, Hwang Bo-ra offered more details about the origins of Ha Jung-woo and Cha Jung-won’s relationship. She explained, “I understand they met by chance at a private event. It seems Jung-won was the one who greeted him first, saying, ‘Hello, senior.’ That’s how their connection began.” According to Hwang, the couple’s relationship blossomed from this fortuitous encounter, and she emphasized that their romance was neither hastily formed nor the result of a calculated introduction. “They’ve been together for a long time, so I see her a lot,” Hwang reiterated, underscoring the depth and longevity of their bond.
Panelist Choi Sung-guk pressed further, curious about which partner first showed interest. Hwang Bo-ra speculated, “I think it’s usually the man who has to like the woman more for the relationship to really start.” She added, with a knowing smile, that it was likely Ha Jung-woo who made the first move. Her comments, while playful, offered a rare window into the dynamics of this high-profile couple, whose relationship had only recently been acknowledged in public.
Indeed, Ha Jung-woo and Cha Jung-won had officially confirmed their relationship on February 4, 2026, following months of rumors and speculation in the entertainment press. Their announcement made headlines, not least because of their respective stature in the industry and the intrigue surrounding their private lives. However, despite the media frenzy, both stars have remained relatively tight-lipped about the details—until now.
The episode also touched on swirling rumors about a possible wedding in July 2026. Kim Yong-gun, ever the doting father and grandfather, addressed these whispers with both candor and humor. “Ha Jung-woo likes babies,” he remarked. “So, I suppose that’s why marriage talks have started to come up.” Yet, the family was quick to dispel any notion that wedding bells were imminent, firmly denying the July marriage rumors that had been circulating in tabloids. According to Newsen, while the couple’s affection is evident and marriage discussions have naturally arisen, there are no concrete plans for a ceremony this summer.
Throughout the show, the mood remained light and affectionate. Kim Yong-gun’s interactions with his grandson and his warm rapport with Hwang Bo-ra offered a glimpse of the everyday joys and gentle teasing that define their family life. The presence of Ha Jung-woo, though indirect, was felt through anecdotes and the affectionate banter about his future plans. The conversation about his love for children and the possibility of marriage was handled with both sincerity and a touch of humor—qualities that endeared the family to viewers across the country.
For fans of Joseon’s Lovers, the episode was a treasure trove of revelations. Not only did it confirm the longstanding relationship between Ha Jung-woo and Cha Jung-won, but it also offered insight into how their romance began and how it is perceived by those closest to them. Hwang Bo-ra’s openness was particularly striking; she did not shy away from sharing her perspective on the couple’s first meeting or speculating about the dynamics of their affection. Her remarks, such as “I think it’s usually the man who has to like the woman more for the relationship to really start,” resonated with viewers and quickly became a talking point online.
According to iMBC Entertainment, the show’s format—which brings together family members for unscripted, heartfelt conversations—was the perfect stage for these revelations. The authenticity of the interactions, combined with the genuine affection among the participants, set the episode apart from more manufactured celebrity interviews. It’s not every day that the private lives of stars are discussed so openly, and fans responded with enthusiasm and appreciation for the rare peek behind the curtain.
While the focus of the episode was on love and family, it also highlighted the unique dynamics of South Korea’s entertainment circles, where relationships often remain hidden from the public eye until they reach a certain stage of seriousness. The willingness of Hwang Bo-ra and her family to discuss these matters openly reflects a gradual shift in how celebrity romances are perceived and shared with audiences. Rather than fueling rumors or speculation, the episode provided clarity and fostered a sense of connection between the stars and their fans.
As Joseon’s Lovers continues to air every Monday night, it’s clear that the show’s appeal lies in its ability to blend the extraordinary with the everyday. The March 2 episode, in particular, struck a chord by balancing intimate family moments with the intrigue of celebrity romance. For viewers, it was a reminder that even the most famous faces experience love, uncertainty, and the joys of family—sometimes in ways that are surprisingly relatable.
With the public now in the know about Ha Jung-woo and Cha Jung-won’s enduring relationship, and marriage rumors firmly addressed, fans can look forward to seeing how their story unfolds—both on and off the screen.