Popular South Korean entertainer Yoo Byung-jae has recently opened up about his budding relationship with influencer Lee Yoo-jeong, captivating fans with his candidness during the 2nd Gyeonggi Awards held on December 22. Appearing on the YouTube show 'Tteuntteun', Yoo, 36, shared how their romance emerged amid swirling rumors, which have stirred both intrigue and excitement among audiences.
During the awards ceremony, Yoo Byung-jae was introduced by fellow MC Yoo Jae-suk as “the protagonist of the hottest dating rumor,” which sparked enthusiastic reactions from the audience. Attendees received the news with cheers, with remarks such as, “Congratulations!” and “You’re truly in love!” indicating their delight and support for him.
Reflecting on their relationship, Yoo Byung-jae stated, “Many people were surprised. Thanks to their support, we’re enjoying our beautiful love story.” He confirmed the couple has been dating for several months, clarifying, “At the time of the '12-part league of love story' segment, I wasn’t dating yet.” This segment, aired earlier this year, has left many speculating about the authenticity of his romance.
Notably, Yoo humorously recounted how friends often questioned whether he was filming content or executing some project rather than genuinely dating Lee. He emphasized, “We have a perfectly normal relationship. I can’t understand why no one believes me,” reinforcing his commitment to their partnership.
At the awards ceremony, Yoo Jae-suk interjected about Yoo Byung-jae’s successful attempts to procure Lee’s consent to discuss their relationship publicly. “I repeatedly asked if it was okay to talk about our relationship, and she certainly approved,” he said, bringing additional levity to the moment.
Questions about their commitment and future arose, including whether they have affectionate nicknames for each other. Yoo Byung-jae quipped, “We’re still just calling each other by our names,” and when asked about marriage plans, he cautiously indicated, “We are still at the beginning stages of our relationship.”
The intrigue surrounding their romance is amplified by Lee Yoo-jeong’s reputation; she is recognized for her resemblance to popular figures like Song Hye-kyo and Han So-hee, making her presence alongside Yoo Byung-jae even more appealing to fans. Lee, born in 1997, is nine years Yoo Byung-jae's junior. Previously, she gained fame as a contestant on the reality show 'Love Catcher 4' aired on TVING.
This past year, the couple has been at the center of discussions, especially after Yoo Byung-jae confirmed their relationship during his TV appearances, including on MBC's 'All-Seeing View', where he shared insights about how they met naturally through social circles.
Lee Yoo-jeong’s influence as both a beauty instructor and DJ has only heightened audience interest, creating the dynamic of their relationship even more intriguing. Acknowledging the slew of questions about the validity of their connection, Yoo expressed, “I’ve been asked many times if I’m just creating content or if this is planned. It is genuinely normal between us.”
The awards event wrapped up on a warm note, with Yoo Jae-suk extending his best wishes to the couple, hoping they develop their love story positively moving forward. Many fans have shared their supportive responses online, praising their apparent affection and realness as partners.
Additional comments surfaced about how their relationship revealed more than just the glamour of stardom, illustrating the warmth of their interactions. Viewers remarked on the sincerity both displayed, with one comment reading, “It’s heartwarming to see both of them thriving not just as individuals but also as partners.” It’s apparent the couple has captured the public’s fascination, providing glimmers of happiness amid their busy lives.
With Yoo Byung-jae’s confirmation of their relationship and his openness during the awards night, it seems clear this couple is enjoying their moment under the spotlight, even as they navigate the challenges of being public figures. Their candid discussions and humor shed light on the joyful aspects of their relationship, hinting at more to come for them as they move forward together.
Moving forward, fans eagerly await potential developments, hoping to witness more of Yoo Byung-jae and Lee Yoo-jeong’s love story as they grow together.
