Hyeri and Ryu Jun Yeol's 8-year love story: Breakup, Han So-hee's defense and following apologies

South Korean actress Hyeri is best known for her roles in hit dramas like Reply 1988 and the fantasy rom-com My Roommate Is a Gumiho. But in 2024, it wasn’t just her performances that stood out—it was her quiet composure and dignity during the much-discussed Ryu Jun-yeol and Han So-hee episode that further cemented her image of grace and grit.

Hyeri and actor Ryu Jun-yeol dated for around eight years after co-starring in Reply 1988, one of the highest-rated dramas in South Korea. Their relationship remained largely private, marked by mutual respect and minimal public commentary. In late 2023, they confirmed their breakup, which, by all appearances, was amicable.

Shortly after, public attention shifted to Ryu Jun-yeol’s rumored relationship with actress Han So-hee. The timing raised questions, and Hyeri’s understated Instagram Story—“That’s funny”—sparked widespread speculation. She didn’t follow up with any clarification. That one line was all she shared.

The internet took over from there. Rumors spiraled, timelines were dissected, and narratives were formed. Still, Hyeri chose not to engage. She didn’t give interviews, release statements, or comment further. As the conversation intensified online, Hyeri quietly returned to work. In contrast, Han So-hee came under intense scrutiny and felt compelled to respond. In a blog post, she clarified that she had not "stolen" anyone’s boyfriend and emphasized that Ryu Jun-yeol and Hyeri had already ended their relationship by the time she was involved with him.

In her words: “I know you’re disappointed in me. But I’m disappointed too—at how easily stories can get twisted.” Despite her attempt to clarify, public criticism continued. Soon after, Han So-hee deleted her post and confirmed that she and Ryu Jun-yeol had also ended their relationship. She explained that she did not want to stir further controversy or cause additional misunderstanding.

On March 18, 2024, Hyeri shared a heartfelt apology on her Instagram, addressing the controversy sparked by her earlier post. She acknowledged that her emotional reaction had led to unintended harm and confusion. In her statement, she explained that she had ended her eight-year relationship with Ryu Jun-yeol in November 2023, and despite initial discussions about possibly reconciling, they had not been in contact since then. Hyeri expressed regret for her actions and apologised to anyone affected by her words and behavior. She emphasised her commitment to being more thoughtful in her future actions and communications

 Following which, Hyeri resumed her public appearances, gave interviews, and when asked about her personal life—including potential marriage—responded with careful, neutral answers. Even as she remained at the center of a media storm she did not create, she never lost her composure.

As she maintains, Her focus stayed on what she could control: her work, her peace, and her integrity. As many fans observed, Hyeri chose grace over gossip and let her actions speak louder than speculation.