Hwang Jung-eum, the 40-year-old actress, has parted ways with basketball player Kim Jong-kyu (33, Wonju DB) just two weeks after confirming their relationship.
On August 5th, Hwang Jung-eum’s agency, Y1 Entertainment, announced, “The two were cautiously getting to know each other with mutual feelings, but they have decided to remain as good acquaintances.”
On July 22nd, Y1 Entertainment had confirmed the relationship between Hwang Jung-eum and Kim Jong-kyu, stating, “Hwang Jung-eum and basketball star A have recently developed feelings for each other and are cautiously getting to know each other.”
The dating rumors surfaced only five months after Hwang Jung-eum announced her divorce from former professional golfer and businessman Lee Young-don (42) earlier this year. At the time, it was reported that the two had grown closer after meeting while Hwang Jung-eum was going through a difficult time.
There were also eyewitness accounts of the couple enjoying dates in public places without being conscious of others’ gazes.
However, the reason for their breakup has not been disclosed.
Hwang Jung-eum married Lee Young-don in February 2016 and gave birth to a son in August of the following year. However, they filed for divorce mediation in September 2020. After reconciling in July 2021, they welcomed their second son in March 2022. But after about three years, Hwang Jung-eum filed for divorce from Lee Young-don.
In February, Hwang Jung-eum suddenly posted several photos of her husband, Lee Young-don, on Instagram, causing controversy.
During this process, she posted a message on Instagram targeting a general woman as Lee Young-don’s mistress, leading to further controversy. Although Hwang Jung-eum apologized, stating that there was a misunderstanding, the woman filed a lawsuit against Hwang Jung-eum for defamation.
