IU and Lee Jong Suk: A Look Back at Their Relationship After Breakup Announcement
IU and Lee Jong Suk Part Ways After Four Years Together
South Korean celebrities IU and Lee Jong Suk have officially ended their romantic relationship, a decision confirmed by their respective agencies on July 10. The pair, who publicly acknowledged their relationship in 2022 after years of friendship, have chosen to separate while continuing to maintain a professional rapport. Their agencies released a joint statement affirming, "It is true that they have broken up. They have decided to remain good colleagues."
Sources suggest that the couple's demanding work commitments were the primary factor behind their split. As both IU and Lee Jong Suk juggle multiple projects, they found it increasingly difficult to carve out time for each other. A representative commented, "Due to busy schedules, the time they could meet grew less and less, so they decided to end the relationship."
The two first crossed paths in 2012 while co-hosting the SBS music program "Inkigayo." Their undeniable on-screen chemistry quickly attracted a fanbase, and they remained close friends long after the show ended. During a 2013 episode of the reality series "Wasin," Lee Jong Suk shared insights into their friendship, stating, "We talked about everything we have been holding back. Now, she's one of my few close friends." This moment underscored their ability to navigate misunderstandings and strengthen their bond.
In December 2022, fans received a significant clue about their romantic relationship when Lee Jong Suk expressed gratitude to a "special person" during his acceptance speech at the NBC Drama Awards for his role in "Big Mouth." He remarked, "Thank you for always being there as the wonderful person you are. I want to tell you that I've liked you deeply for a very long time," which was later confirmed to be directed at IU. Despite their recent breakup, both stars remain focused on their careers, with Lee Jong Suk set to appear in the upcoming Disney Plus fantasy drama "The Remarried Empress," while IU is gearing up to release her new album in August 2026, marking her first original album since "Flower Bookmark 3." They continue to support each other professionally, even as fans express their sadness over the news.