The June 28 episode of Pinggyego (Episode 80), titled It’s Just an Excuse to Share a Meal, offered more than just lighthearted chatter—it gave fans a rare look into the personal reflections of two of Korea’s most cherished celebrities, Yoo Jae Suk and Lee Hyori. As they shared a meal and reminisced about their past, the conversation took a more heartfelt turn when Yoo opened up about his relationship with actor Song Joong Ki.
During their talk, Yoo Jae Suk mentioned that he hasn’t spoken to Song Joong Ki in quite some time. He explained that their friendship, once maintained through occasional messages and meetings, gradually faded after the actor got married and started a family. Yoo admitted that while he once felt comfortable reaching out, things now feel “too awkward,” as Song Joong Ki is likely caught up in the responsibilities of parenting and married life.
The discussion was triggered by a nostalgic memory. Lee Hyori recalled that she was the very first guest on Running Man, which led her to remember how she had grown close to Song Joong Ki around the same period. She fondly shared that he once appeared on her husband’s radio show and described him as “very warm and friendly.” Curious if he had been a guest on Pinggyego, she laughed when Yoo said he hadn’t and jokingly called him out on camera, saying, “He needs to come on!”
Yoo Jae Suk then turned to the camera and called out to Song Joong Ki directly, saying, “Joong Ki, you heard that, right? Hyori noona is calling you out.” However, his expression quickly changed from cheerful to thoughtful as he reflected more seriously on their distance. He expressed understanding, saying he assumes the actor’s life is now centered around his growing family, and he didn’t want to intrude during what must be a very personal and busy time.
This moment prompted viewers to reflect on Song Joong Ki’s own life journey. In January 2023, he announced his marriage to British actress Katy Louise Saunders. Since then, the couple has welcomed two children—a son and a daughter—and chosen to lead a quieter life away from the media glare, primarily living in Italy.
Despite stepping back from frequent public appearances, Song Joong Ki hasn’t put his acting career on hold. He continues to work on new projects, although he has clearly prioritized his family’s privacy and well-being. For fans, the candid conversation between Yoo Jae Suk and Lee Hyori was not just entertaining—it was a touching reminder of how even celebrities go through shifts in relationships as their lives evolve.
