Actress Han So Hee has once again spoken candidly about the intense public scrutiny surrounding her past relationship with actor Ryu Jun Yeol, as well as the social media controversy that followed and involved her close friend and co-star Jeon Jong Seo.
Han So Hee addressed the issue during an interview for her upcoming film 'Project Y,' her first commercial movie as a leading actress, directed by Lee Hwan. The interview was held on January 16 at a café in Samcheong-dong, Jongno District, Seoul.
During the interview, Han first spoke about her decision to join the project, saying, “Jeon Jong Seo, Director Lee Hwan, and the entire production team were people I truly wanted to work with. It felt like meeting people I was naturally drawn to, so I happily agreed. I’m really glad I did.”
'Project Y' is a crime film that follows the perilous journey of two friends, Mi Seon and Do Gyeong, who attempt to steal illicit money and gold bars to escape their harsh realities. Han So Hee portrays Mi Seon, a character who longs for an ordinary life but makes increasingly dangerous choices to achieve it, while Jeon Jong Seo plays Do Gyeong, an impulsive and emotionally driven figure who relentlessly pushes forward. Led by two female protagonists, the film has drawn attention for its strong “womance” narrative and the pairing of two leading actresses.
The film also marked the first collaboration between Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo, whose on-screen partnership developed into a close real-life friendship. However, that friendship later became entangled in public controversy following speculation related to Han So Hee’s past relationship with Ryu Jun Yeol.
In early 2024, rumors began circulating after an overseas netizen suggested a romantic relationship between Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol. The situation escalated when Ryu Jun Yeol’s former partner, actress Hyeri, posted the phrase “Interesting” on her social media, leading to widespread speculation about a so-called “overlap dating” controversy. As the rumors intensified, Han So Hee addressed the matter directly through a personal blog post, firmly denying any overlap in relationships. Ryu Jun Yeol later echoed the same clarification, and the controversy eventually subsided.
Despite this, further speculation arose when online users claimed that a certain Instagram account leaving malicious comments toward Hyeri belonged to Han So Hee. The account had been created around the time Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol acknowledged their relationship and was notably followed by Jeon Jong Seo, prompting additional scrutiny. Han So Hee’s agency immediately denied the allegations, stating that the account was not operated by the actress.
Reflecting on the ongoing attention surrounding her past relationship and the resulting social media controversy, Han So Hee shared, “I think I have to accept everything that comes with it. As each year passes, I feel a stronger sense of responsibility to make sure my words carry weight, because I receive so much public attention.”
She continued, “Of course, there are times when explanations are necessary, but there are also moments when things feel unfair. Whether it’s criticism, misunderstanding, or differing opinions, some things have to be endured and accepted. Not everyone can think the same way. Out of ten people, all ten won’t like me. I try to objectively look at myself and analyze who I am.” She added with a smile, “But I still hope people will like me.”
Director Lee Hwan previously addressed concerns about the controversy surrounding the actresses’ social media activity, stating, “I actually found it interesting. Rather than worrying, I thought both actresses were very honest and free-spirited. From my perspective as someone working with them, they were the kind of actors I wanted, and seeing that made me feel we could explore even more with these characters.”
'Project Y' is scheduled to be released on January 21.
SEE ALSO: Hyeri proves timeless beauty on her way to Fashion Week
SHARE
