South Korean singer-songwriter IU and actor Lee Jong-suk are currently one of the most talked-about celebrity couples. Their relationship, which became public in late 2022, has amazed fans due to their long-standing friendship and deep bond.
From co-hosting a music show to becoming one of Korea’s power couples, their love story is one for the ages.
Who is IU’s Boyfriend?
As of 2025, IU is happily dating actor Lee Jong-suk. Their relationship has been public since December 31, 2022, when Dispatch reported that they had been together for four months.
Both IU and Lee Jong-suk confirmed the relationship through their agencies, and their love has continued to grow stronger since then.
A Friendship That Turned Into Love
IU (real name Lee Ji-eun) and Lee Jong-suk first met in 2012 when they co-hosted SBS’s music program Inkigayo. At the time, IU was already an established singer, while Lee was gaining recognition as an actor. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, but back then, they were just colleagues.
Over the years, they maintained a close friendship, supporting each other’s careers from a distance.
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Hints of a Growing Romance
For years, IU and Lee Jong-suk showed subtle signs of their deep bond. Fans noticed that Lee attended IU’s concerts multiple times, including her Palette concert in 2017.
IU also performed at Lee Jong-suk’s brother’s wedding in 2022, a gesture that hinted at their close relationship.
Another clue came in 2022 when Lee Jong-suk mentioned IU’s song “Winter Sleep” in an interview, praising its lyrics. This subtle reference indicated how much IU’s music meant to him, even before their relationship was made public.
Going Public: Dispatch’s 2022 Revelation
The couple’s relationship was officially revealed by Dispatch on December 31, 2022. The report stated that IU and Lee Jong-suk had been dating for about four months and had spent Christmas together in Nagoya, Japan. Dispatch even published photos of their romantic trip.
Shortly after, both their agencies confirmed the relationship, making it official. Lee Jong-suk’s heartfelt speech at the 2022 MBC Drama Awards added further confirmation.
While accepting the Daesang (Grand Prize) for his role in Big Mouth, he thanked a special person who had supported him through difficult times—many believed he was referring to IU.
IU and Lee Jong-suk’s Support for Each Other
Since making their relationship public, IU and Lee Jong-suk have continued to support one another. IU, who is also an actress, mentioned in a 2023 interview that she had sought acting advice from Lee Jong-suk while preparing for her film Dream. Meanwhile, Lee was seen wearing IU’s concert merchandise, showing his pride in her work.
Despite being public figures, they have kept their relationship relatively private, focusing on their respective careers while still making time for each other.
Rumors and Challenges
Like any high-profile couple, IU and Lee Jong-suk have faced rumors and speculation. In February 2025, breakup rumors spread on Chinese social media platform Weibo.
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However, these rumors were quickly dismissed when the couple was spotted together in Seoul, reaffirming their relationship.
Despite the speculation, Lee Jong-suk made a strong statement without saying a word—he attended IU’s concert in Seoul during the 2024 IU HEREH WORLD TOUR CONCERT ENCORE: THE WINNING.
Though the actor attempted to keep a low profile by covering his face, eagle-eyed fans recognized him in the audience. His presence at the concert reassured fans that the couple is still together and thriving.
IU and Lee Jong-suk’s relationship is widely admired because of the strong foundation of friendship it was built upon. They are not just a celebrity couple but also individuals who genuinely respect and uplift each other.
As of now, IU and Lee Jong-suk remain together, continuing their journey as one of South Korea’s most beloved couples. Fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for them, both in their personal lives and their professional careers.
