Kim Jong Kook’s Dating History: From Yoon Eun Hye to Song Ji Hyo, a Look at All His Relationship Rumors
Kim Jong Kook’s surprise marriage announcement has put the spotlight back on his past dating rumors—from Song Ji Hyo and Yoon Eun Hye to a mystery American woman.
Kim Jong Kook with Song Ji Hyo (courtesy: Instagram) – one of his most popular rumored pairings.

South Korean singer and entertainer Kim Jong Kook surprised fans on August 18 by announcing his marriage through a heartfelt letter on his fan café. While he revealed that the wedding would be private, attended only by close family and friends, he did not disclose details about his fiancée. This announcement has reignited public curiosity about his past dating rumors and speculated relationships over the years.
Here’s a look back at the most talked-about names linked to the Running Man star:
1. Song Ji Hyo – The “SpartAce” Love Line
Kim Jong Kook and actress Song Ji Hyo sparked endless buzz on Running Man, earning the nickname SpartAce. Though Ji Hyo once admitted she disliked the forced “love line” for fan service, their undeniable chemistry fueled dating rumors for years. Neither ever confirmed the relationship, keeping fans guessing.
2. Yoon Eun Hye – The Iconic X-Man Pairing
One of the most famous K-variety couples, Kim Jong Kook and Yoon Eun Hye captured hearts on X-Man in the 2000s. Their on-screen chemistry led to widespread speculation, especially after their alleged “text messages” surfaced online. Despite the viral buzz—even as late as 2022—Yoon Eun Hye eventually denied the rumors through her agency.
3. Chae Rina – Roo’ra Member
Kim Jong Kook was also rumored to have dated Chae Rina from Roo’ra. Fans linked his past comments about discouraging an ex from driving to Rina, who had been in two accidents. However, she never addressed the speculation and later confirmed her relationship with baseball player Park Yong Geun in 2013.
4. Moon Geun Young – A Short-Lived Running Man “Love Line”
On Running Man, actress Moon Geun Young briefly shared a fun chemistry with Kim Jong Kook, leading to playful teasing from fellow cast members. While nothing romantic developed, Jong Kook once admitted he wouldn’t mind if she made the first move.
5. The Mystery American Woman
Rumors once spread that Kim Jong Kook was secretly married to an American woman with a child at UCLA—sparked by a joke from Cha Tae Hyun on Knowing Bros. Though unfounded, sightings of Jong Kook with a “mysterious woman” in the US only fueled speculation further.
6. Other Rumored Links
- Yoon Tae Jin – an announcer who matched his ideal type.
- Chae Yeon – singer who was reportedly part of a love triangle with him on Running Man.
Kim Jong Kook’s Own Words on Love
In past interviews, Kim Jong Kook revealed he prefers long-term relationships, sharing that his previous romances lasted six and seven years respectively. While the star has kept his love life private, his marriage announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter.