On October 16, 2024, Sports Chosun reported that actress Han So-hee, known for her role in Gyeongseong Creature, became involved in a controversy over online harassment. Allegations emerged suggesting that she operated a fake Instagram handle, @catsaretheavengers, to post derogatory comments aimed at fellow actress Lee Hyeri, famed for her performance in Reply 1988.
This controversy resurfaced memories of a dating scandal from March 2024 that involved both actresses and actor Ryu Jun-yeol. The situation escalated after photographs of Han So-hee vacationing with Ryu Jun-yeol in Hawaii gained significant attention online. Both actresses ultimately issued apologies following the incident.
In a surprising twist, it was revealed that Jeon Jong-seo, the Queen Woo actress and Han So-hee’s close friend, was following the contentious Instagram account @catsaretheavengers. Interestingly, Jeon Jong-seo has only 19 accounts in her follow list, which includes Han So-hee’s profile.
The news quickly spread across the Korean online platform TheQoo, where users conjectured that the controversial Instagram account might belong to Han So-hee, owing to Jeon Jong-seo’s connection. Speculation intensified when netizens noted that a profile picture from @catsaretheavengers was previously shared by Han So-hee on her own Instagram, adding fuel to the fire.
In response to the allegations, Jeon Jong-seo’s agency, ANDMARK, announced they are seeking clarification from her regarding these matters, highlighting that it remains a private issue. Conversely, Han So-hee’s agency, 9ato Entertainment, firmly denied any association with the hateful comments on social media.
“The social media account identified by the media is not managed by Han So-hee. We are prepared to take complete legal action if these claims are found to be false. We ask that speculation ceases until verified information is available,”stated 9ato Entertainment.
Unpacking the Controversy Between Han So-hee and Lee Hyeri Amid Dating Rumors Involving Ryu Jun-yeol
The drama unfolded in early March when gossip outlets and online forums were abuzz with speculation regarding Ryu Jun-yeol, who gained fame from Reply 1988, dating Han So-hee. This flurry of gossip was particularly intriguing since Ryu Jun-yeol had been previously linked to Lee Hyeri since 2017, with many fans considering them one of South Korea’s prominent celebrity couples.
The tables turned when snapshots of Han So-hee and Ryu Jun-yeol enjoying a vacation together in Hawaii leaked online. Both their management teams subsequently confirmed the dating rumors. However, this revelation provoked backlash from netizens, who criticized Han So-hee for allegedly being involved in a “transit love affair”with Ryu Jun-yeol while he was still in a relationship with Lee Hyeri.
On March 24, 2024, Ryu Jun-yeol’s agency announced that he had ended his relationship with Han So-hee amid the swirling controversy. Following this development, Lee Hyeri publicly apologized via Instagram for her hasty response to the news of Ryu Jun-yeol’s new romantic involvement.
“Last November, it was revealed that my eight-year relationship has come to an end […] I sincerely apologize for causing distress with my impulsive response,”she expressed.
“In recent days, I refrained from explaining my actions as I felt our discussions were too personal and would only create more public fatigue. If my lack of clarity caused any confusion, I apologize once more.”
Reports from NewsBytes indicated that on March 29, 2024, Han So-hee extended her own apology for her actions during this tumultuous period.
In other developments, Gyeongseong Creature season 2, featuring Park Seo-joon alongside Han So-hee, premiered on Netflix on September 27, 2024. Additionally, the series Queen Woo starring Jeon Jong-seo aired on TVING, split into two parts with a total of eight episodes. Lee Hyeri’s Reply 1988 remains available for streaming on Netflix and Viki.
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