Lee Jae Wook and Kim Hye Yoon reunited on the latest episode of Fresh off the Sea. A clip of their on-screen chemistry went viral, with fans loving the spark between the two. Many joked about how Byeon Woo Seok, Kim Hye Yoon’s co-star from Lovely Runner, might feel about it.
While international netizens focused on Lee Jae Wook and Kim Hye Yoon’s chemistry, a Korean forum post on Nate Pann dragged aespa’s Karina back into the spotlight because of her past relationship with Lee Jae Wook.
Screenshots from the show sparked mixed reactions. Some fans criticized ongoing mentions of Karina whenever Lee Jae Wook appears, calling it unnecessary. Others saw it as normal for celebrities who dated to be linked in public discussions. However, some netizens showed frustration and aimed negativity at both Lee Jae Wook and Karina separately.
“Seeing people still milking a dating rumor that’s over a year old, even left from mobile, really shows there must be nothing else to criticize Karina for. Seriously, every post about Karina is the same old stuff. It’s either personal attacks or dragging up dating rumors — nothing else lol.” – *Nate Pann user*
“Why are all the replies so angry? There’s not even a single word criticizing Karina—it’s just a post complimenting Lee Jae Wook. They’ve already broken up anyway. When celebrities go public with relationships, they always end up being called someone’s ex throughout their careers. I get that fans might not like it, but I was surprised by the comments… It was acknowledged they broke up, so why is even a mention taken as an attack? It doesn’t seem like a big deal.” – *Nate Pann user*
“Why did Lee Jae Wook date Karina though? There must’ve been plenty of other nice people out there.” – *Nate Pann user*
“They were both good-looking and visually matched well.” – *Nate Pann user*
Lee Jae Wook and Karina’s relationship was confirmed by Dispatch in February 2024. Despite the split, their past still sparks heated discussions online.