IU & Lee Jong Suk: From Friends To Couple! Dating Timeline

Mr. Erik Oberbrunner II 11 May 2025

Is there anything more captivating than a blossoming romance between two stars? The confirmation of a relationship between IU and Lee Jong Suk has sent ripples of excitement and admiration throughout the entertainment world, solidifying their status as a true power couple.

The initial whispers of a connection began swirling back in October when images surfaced showing IU's attendance at Lee Jong Suk's brother's wedding. More than just a guest, IU serenaded the newlyweds with a congratulatory song, a gesture that many saw as a sign of their close friendship. It seemed perfectly natural for Lee Jong Suk, with a friend of IU's caliber, to have such a celebrated artist grace the occasion with her talent. However, the nature of their bond remained ambiguous until official statements clarified the situation. News outlets buzzed with the revelation that IU and Lee Jong Suk were, in fact, an item, a revelation that sent fans into a frenzy of celebration and well-wishing. Following the initial reports, Lee Jong Suk's agency, HighZium Studio, swiftly released a statement confirming the dating rumors, dispelling any lingering doubts and officially announcing their relationship to the world. The news resonated globally, prompting French reports stating, "Lee Jong Suk a voqu sa relation de couple avec IU," and "Le 31 dcembre dernier, les deux clbrits ont annonc tre en couple, avant dcrire des lettres leurs fans," further cementing the widespread interest in this celebrity pairing. Lee Jong Suk later reflected on his relationship with IU in an interview with Esquire Korea, offering a glimpse into the depth and significance of their connection. He also penned a heartfelt letter to his fans, sharing his thoughts and feelings about this new chapter in his life, a gesture reciprocated by IU, who also addressed her devoted followers with a message of her own. On January 1st KST, Lee Jong Suk's letter was shared, echoing IU's sentiments and solidifying their commitment to transparency with their fans. These announcements, made on New Year's Eve, transformed the holiday season into a celebration of love and happiness for the couple's supporters.

Category	IU (Lee Ji-eun)	Lee Jong Suk
Full Name	Lee Ji-eun ()	Lee Jong Suk ()
Stage Name	IU ()	Lee Jong Suk ()
Date of Birth	May 16, 1993	September 14, 1989
Age (as of Oct 26, 2024)	31 years old	35 years old
Birthplace	Seoul, South Korea	Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Producer	Actor, Model
Agency	EDAM Entertainment	HighZium Studio
Years Active	2008present	2005present
Notable Works	"Good Day," "Palette," "Hotel del Luna," "My Mister"	"School 2013," "I Can Hear Your Voice," "W: Two Worlds," "Big Mouth"
Awards	Numerous awards including Melon Music Awards, Mnet Asian Music Awards, and Baeksang Arts Awards	Numerous awards including Baeksang Arts Awards, Korea Drama Awards, and MBC Drama Awards
Website	EDAM Entertainment (IU Official)	N/A (commonly represented via agency page or personal social media)

Theirs is a narrative woven with threads of shared history and mutual admiration. The "power couple" as many affectionately call them, reportedly embarked on their romantic journey back in 2022, suggesting a deepening connection that blossomed over time. While the exact timeline remains private, their relationship has clearly flourished, as they have continued to stay together, supporting each other through their respective endeavors. This dedication to one another is a testament to the strength of their bond and the genuine affection they share. Discovering their sweet moments, career highlights, and the effusive fan reactions has become a delightful pastime for many, eager to celebrate this beloved couple. Lee Jong Suk and IU officially confirmed their relationship in 2023, marking a significant moment for their fans and the entertainment industry as a whole. However, their connection dates back much further, as they had been friends and colleagues for years, building a foundation of trust and understanding that ultimately paved the way for their romantic involvement.

Lee Jong Suk's admiration for IU shines brightly in his words. In a recent interview, he spoke glowingly of her, praising IU for providing him with will and strength, qualities that have inspired him to strive for personal growth. He expressed that she makes him want to become a better person, highlighting the positive influence she has on his life. Such heartfelt sentiments resonate deeply with fans, who appreciate the sincerity and vulnerability he displays when speaking about their relationship. The public has been captivated by their sweet interactions, supportive gestures, and the heartfelt letters they exchanged confirming their relationship in 2023. These glimpses into their private world have only served to strengthen the public's affection for the couple, portraying them as genuine and relatable despite their celebrity status.

The seeds of their relationship were sown long ago, as IU and Lee Jong Suk first crossed paths in 2012 on a music program. Initially, their relationship was purely platonic, marked by friendship and camaraderie. However, as time passed, their bond deepened, eventually evolving into the romantic partnership they now share. This gradual progression from friends to lovers is a heartwarming narrative that resonates with many, illustrating the beauty of organic connection and the power of shared experiences. IU's agency, EDAM Entertainment, mirrored the sentiment expressed by Lee Jong Suk's agency, issuing a similar statement that officially confirmed the relationship and solidified the couple's status in the public eye. This coordinated response from both agencies demonstrated a united front and a commitment to transparency, further endearing them to their fans.

Since their relationship became public, the couple has been going strong, weathering the challenges of fame and maintaining a steadfast connection. Their commitment to each other is evident in their public appearances and their private gestures, signaling a deep and lasting bond. The "Big Mouth" actor, Lee Jong Suk, has also been spotted at IU's latest concert in Seoul, showcasing his support for her career and demonstrating his unwavering presence in her life. Such public displays of affection have only served to amplify the public's adoration for the couple, painting a picture of a loving and supportive partnership.

Cosmo.ph, among other media outlets, has reported the latest news on the New Year's couple, IU and Lee Jong Suk, tracing their history back to their initial meeting as hosts of Inkigayo in 2012. This connection to the music program highlights the serendipitous nature of their encounter and the role it played in bringing them together. The fact that they met as hosts of Inkigayo underscores the shared professional experiences that helped forge their initial bond, setting the stage for their eventual romantic involvement. Delving into their friendship, similarities, and even whispers of marriage plans has become a favorite pastime for fans, eager to learn every detail of their evolving relationship. Comprehensive timelines and in-depth analyses of their connection abound, catering to the public's insatiable curiosity about this beloved couple.

The confirmation of their relationship has been met with an outpouring of support and affection from fans around the world, solidifying their status as one of the most beloved couples in the Korean entertainment industry. Following the initial report, Lee Jong Suk's agency's statement put all rumors to rest, confirming what many had hoped for and igniting a wave of celebration among their respective fan bases. The news served as a beacon of positivity, spreading joy and excitement among those who have long admired their talent and charisma. According to IU, she was born into the Jeonju Yi clan, the same clan as the former Korean monarchy, adding an interesting historical dimension to her personal background. This connection to Korean history provides an intriguing glimpse into IU's heritage and adds another layer to her already fascinating persona.

Although they were announced as Dispatchs 2023 New Years couple, their relationship extends far beyond that single announcement. Their connection can be traced back to their first meeting in 2012, highlighting the enduring nature of their bond and the gradual evolution of their feelings. The fact that their relationship has spanned over a decade speaks volumes about the depth and resilience of their connection, defying the fleeting nature of many celebrity romances. While marriage may not be on the immediate horizon, getting married in general allows individuals to make changes to their benefit plans outside of open enrollment, a practical consideration that underscores the importance of legal unions in modern society. This detail, while seemingly tangential, highlights the real-world implications of marriage and the various benefits it provides.

Lee Jong Suk's agency, HighZium Studio, officially confirmed the dating rumors between him and singer/actress IU just hours after the initial report by media outlet 'Dispatch,' signaling a swift and decisive response to the swirling speculation. This prompt confirmation demonstrated a respect for both the couple and their fans, preventing the spread of misinformation and allowing them to control the narrative surrounding their relationship. The beauty sacrifice IU made for "When Life Gives You Tangerines," a testament to her dedication to her craft and her willingness to transform for her roles, further illustrates her commitment to her profession. This detail, while not directly related to her relationship with Lee Jong Suk, highlights her work ethic and her passion for acting.

The revelation that Sulli's brother revealed Goo Hara, Sulli, and Kim Sae Ron all went to the same psychiatrist, initially introduced by IU, sheds light on the support system that exists within the entertainment industry and the importance of mental health awareness. This connection underscores IU's role as a friend and confidante, highlighting her caring and compassionate nature. IU's surprise gift to a child actress from "When Life Gives You Tangerines," leaving her mother "speechless," exemplifies her generosity and her ability to connect with people of all ages. Such acts of kindness further solidify her reputation as a warm and genuine individual, both on and off screen.

IU once stated, "When I get older, I will be able to have more chances to date, but I feel like I will get sick of it," a sentiment that perhaps reflects her desire for a meaningful and lasting relationship rather than fleeting romances. This quote, while uttered in a different context, provides insight into her perspective on love and relationships, suggesting that she values depth and connection over superficiality. Following their agencies' statements, both IU, 29 (at the time of the announcement), and Lee Jong Suk, 33, wrote heartfelt letters to their fans, further cementing their commitment to transparency and their appreciation for the unwavering support they receive. These letters served as a personal touch, allowing fans to connect with them on a deeper level and understand their feelings about this new chapter in their lives.

IU described Lee Jong Suk as a "cute person" who has supported her throughout the years, highlighting the positive influence he has had on her life and career. This simple yet affectionate description speaks volumes about the genuine connection they share and the mutual respect they have for one another. "He was a colleague for a long time, and we are building up positive feelings while relying on each other," she wrote, emphasizing the importance of their friendship and the strength they draw from their mutual support. This emphasis on friendship and mutual support underscores the solid foundation upon which their relationship is built, suggesting that their bond is more than just a fleeting romance.

While IU and Lee Jong Suk didn't work together in "Creating Destiny" (2009), that particular drama led to Eugene announcing her upcoming marriage with her leading man in 2011. They eventually got married in the same year. This anecdote, while not directly related to IU and Lee Jong Suk, highlights the power of on-screen chemistry and the potential for real-life romance to blossom in the entertainment industry. The two Korean stars have always kept a level of privacy, a testament to their desire to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst the constant scrutiny of the public eye. This commitment to privacy is understandable, given the intense attention they receive, and it allows them to cultivate a more personal and intimate relationship away from the prying eyes of the media.

The outpouring of support from fans, the heartfelt letters from the couple, and the unwavering support they show each other all point to a relationship built on genuine affection and mutual respect. This romance is a testament to the power of friendship, the importance of support, and the beauty of finding love in unexpected places. As the world watches their relationship unfold, one thing is certain: IU and Lee Jong Suk have captured the hearts of many, and their story is one that will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

The details about press copyright, contact information, creators, advertising, developers, terms, privacy policy, safety, and how YouTube works are standard information related to the platform and its content usage guidelines. These details, while important for understanding the legal and operational aspects of YouTube, are not directly related to the relationship between IU and Lee Jong Suk.

This narrative underscores the enduring fascination with celebrity relationships and the public's desire to connect with the personal lives of their favorite stars. The story of IU and Lee Jong Suk is one of friendship, support, and love, a narrative that resonates deeply with fans and provides a glimpse into the human side of these celebrated figures. As their relationship continues to evolve, the world will undoubtedly continue to watch with interest, celebrating their successes and supporting their journey as a couple.

The user expresses their long-standing admiration for IU, stating, "Exactly what the title says. I've been a UAENA for about 5 years now." This personal connection to IU highlights the deep emotional investment that fans have in her well-being and happiness. The user's friend's speculation about IU getting married soon prompted the user to clarify that they don't believe it's true, as IU hasn't hinted at or announced anything of the sort. This exchange underscores the importance of reliable information and the dangers of spreading unfounded rumors. The user speculates that their friend probably read some April Fool's Day blurb somewhere, highlighting the potential for misinformation to circulate, especially online. This detail serves as a reminder to be critical of the information we consume and to verify sources before spreading rumors.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding marriage rumors, the user expresses their unwavering support for IU, stating, "I'd still be happy for IU no matter what she decides on." This sentiment encapsulates the unconditional love and support that many fans feel for their idols, regardless of their personal choices. Although the two were announced as Dispatchs 2023 New Years couple, IU and Lee met over a decade back in August 2012. It was SBS weekly music show, Inkigayo, that featured both Korean stars as MCs, and they hosted the show together from August to September of that year. This timeline further emphasizes the long-standing connection between IU and Lee Jong Suk, tracing their relationship back to their initial meeting and highlighting the significance of their shared experiences.