Choi Jun-hee, the daughter of the late actress Choi Jin-sil and a current influencer, has announced her upcoming marriage, sparking both congratulations and concerns.
According to recent reports, Choi Jun-hee is set to marry a non-celebrity office worker, who is 11 years her senior, on May 16th at a hotel in Gangnam, Seoul. The timing of their relationship has drawn particular interest.
Reports indicate that the couple has been dating for about five years. Simple calculations suggest that their relationship began when Choi Jun-hee was still a minor, which has raised concerns on online communities and social media. The controversy centers not on the age difference itself, but on the fact that their relationship began before she reached adulthood.
However, the couple has not hidden their relationship. Choi Jun-hee has shared her partner on social media, posting travel photos, anniversary posts, and couple photoshoots. Last year, she even introduced her partner to broadcaster Hong Jin-kyung. It is reported that her family is aware of and supports their relationship.
The groom-to-be is known to have supported Choi Jun-hee during her struggles with lupus, significant weight gain, and malicious comments. Choi Jun-hee's weight increased to 96kg due to steroid side effects, but she has since lost weight to the 40kg range, inspired by a body profile photoshoot. She is currently active as a beauty influencer and model, recently expanding her activities by walking the runway at the '2026 Seoul Fashion Week.'
The main issue is not the age difference itself, but whether the timing of their relationship was appropriate. On the other hand, many argue against hasty conclusions, noting that the couple has maintained their relationship for five years while managing their individual lives.
Growing up in the public eye means every choice can be subject to scrutiny. However, marriage is a personal decision, and it is important to observe whether it is a choice made with careful consideration and responsibility, regardless of the controversy.
Reporter Kim Se-a, Ten Asia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr