On January 20, 2025, Chinese media outlet Luzhong Morning Post in Shandong Province reported on the real reason behind Song Hye-kyo and Song Joon-ki's divorce.
As per the media outlet, The Glory actress Song Hye-kyo recently appeared for an interview and revealed that Song Joong-ki persistently pursued her since Descendants of the Sun, and after getting married, he wanted to have kids immediately. However, she felt differently, as her career was still unstable back then.
According to Luzhong Morning Post, their differences about having kids deepened with time, eventually creating a distance between the two South Korean stars.
For the unversed, the marriage of South Korean actors Song Hye-kyo and Song Joong-ki, celebrated as the "Song-Song couple," captivated fans worldwide. Their union on October 31, 2017, followed their on-screen romance in the 2016 hit drama Descendants of the Sun.
However, the couple's relationship ended unexpectedly when they announced their divorce in June 2019, which was finalized shortly thereafter. At the time of their separation, both parties cited "difference in personality" as the primary reason for their split, as per statements given by their agency. According to The Korea Times on June 27, 2019, Song Hye-kyo's agency stated,
"The reason for the divorce is a difference in personality. The decision came because the pair could not overcome the difference."
Similarly, Song Joong-ki expressed his desire to avoid public disputes, emphasizing a peaceful separation. Meanwhile, fans were incensed to see The Glory actress being connected with Song Joong-ki again after almost six years of divorce. One fan wrote:
"Are we going to do JB & SG too now?? Everytime they have new work/project all this sort of news will come out suddenly. Just f move on it's been 6years already. Stop associating these two and left her alone."
Netizens reiterated that the couple got divorced years ago and have moved on in their respective lives since, hence digging into their past was unnecessary.
"It's amazing how little people talk before getting married. Having children should have been a discussion before marriage, not after," one fan said.
"It’s been 6 years can we just move on?" another fan wrote.
"They’ve been divorced for almost 6 years, what’s even the point," one other fan added.
Others wondered why Song Hye-kyo would discuss her private life and past with a Chinese media outlet from a "less popular" province in China.
"They have been divorced for years, he is even in his new marriage and everyone already knew why they had divorced, what is the news here?" a fan wrote.
"The 'Luzhong Morning Post in Shandong Province' reported that Song Hye Kyo recently appeared on a broadcast, where she opened up for the first time ----- Why would Song Hye Kyo open up to a Chinese company from a relatively less popular province?" another fan questioned.
"Ai yo… that was many years ago. Stop reporting abt their previous marriage. Move on," one other fan added.
Song Hye-kyo and Song Joong-ki's career and releases explored between 2016-2024
Between 2016 and 2024, South Korean actors Song Hye-kyo and Song Joong-ki significantly enriched the entertainment industry with diverse roles in both television dramas and films.
Song Hye-kyo's notable works include:
- Descendants of the Sun (2016): Song Hye-kyo portrayed Dr. Kang Mo-yeon, a compassionate surgeon who develops a romantic relationship with a special forces captain, played by Song Joong-ki. The series was a massive success, boosting both actors' international fame.
- Encounter (2018–2019): In this romantic drama, she played Cha Soo-hyun, a hotel CEO who embarks on a transformative relationship with a younger man, portrayed by Park Bo-gum. The series delves into themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth.
- Now, We Are Breaking Up (2021–2022): Song took on the role of Ha Young-eun, a fashion designer navigating the complexities of love and career. The drama offers a realistic portrayal of modern relationships and the challenges faced by women in the fashion industry.
- The Glory (2022–2023): In this Netflix series, she portrayed Moon Dong-eun, a woman seeking revenge against those who wronged her in the past. The series received acclaim for its gripping storyline and Song's compelling performance.
Song Hye-kyo's upcoming projects include the Korean film Dark Nuns. Scheduled for release on January 24, 2025, this film also stars Vincenzo actress Jeon Yeo-been, with the two performing exorcisms as nuns to save a young boy possessed by a formidable evil spirit. The movie promises a blend of horror and drama, showcasing Song's versatility.
Furthermore, the period drama Slowly and Intensely is set to premiere on Netflix, featuring Song Hye-kyo alongside Gong Yoo. Filming for the series began on January 12, 2025, and it is anticipated to explore the dynamic world of media and entertainment during a crucial period in Korean history.
Meanwhile, Song Joong-ki's notable works so far include:
- Descendants of the Sun (2016): As Captain Yoo Si-jin, Song Joong-ki delivered a charismatic performance, solidifying his status as a leading actor in the Korean entertainment industry.
- The Battleship Island (2017): In this war film, he played Park Moo-young, a Korean independence fighter who infiltrates a labor camp to rescue a fellow activist. The movie sheds light on a lesser-known part of Korean history.
- Arthdal Chronicles (2019): Song took on a dual role in this fantasy drama set in ancient times, portraying Eun-seom and Saya, twins with intertwined destinies. The series is noted for its expansive world-building and complex characters.
- Space Sweepers (2021): In this sci-fi film, he played Tae-ho, a spaceship pilot navigating space debris and uncovering secrets in the process. The movie was praised for its visual effects and engaging storyline.
- Vincenzo (2021): Song portrayed Vincenzo Cassano, a Korean-Italian lawyer and Mafia consigliere who returns to Korea, delivering a blend of dark comedy and action. The series was a commercial success and showcased Song's range as an actor.
- Reborn Rich (2022): In this fantasy drama, he played Yoon Hyun-woo, a loyal employee reincarnated into a wealthy family, seeking revenge. The series received high ratings and critical acclaim.
- Bogota: City of the Lost (2024): Set in the 1990s, this crime thriller features Song Joong-ki as Guk-hui, a young man who immigrates to Colombia and becomes involved in the underworld of Bogotá. The film is praised for its intense storyline and Song's portrayal of a complex character.
- My Name is Loh Kiwan (2024): In this film, Song plays Loh Ki-wan, a North Korean defector seeking asylum in Belgium. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience.
Descendants of the Sun, The Glory, Vincenzo, Reborn Rich, and My Name is Loh Kiwan are all available to stream on Netflix.