Choi Kang-hee’s Past Romance and Career Shift
South Korean actress Choi Kang-hee, known for her roles in dramas like School and films such as Goodbye Mom, has long sparked curiosity about her personal life, particularly a past relationship with a prominent celebrity. Beyond her acting career, she has recently embraced unconventional paths, including working various part-time jobs.
A Past Romance with a Rising Star
For years, rumors have circulated regarding a relationship Choi Kang-hee had around 2000 with a fellow actor. She hinted at the relationship in various broadcasts, describing a passionate love affair with a celebrity whose identity would be recognizable to the public. The relationship lasted approximately three years and ended amicably, with both parties prioritizing each other’s future careers.
Choi Kang-hee recounted a poignant moment following the breakup, unable to express her grief publicly due to her celebrity status, she cried inside an ATM for an extended period, even preserving the tissue she used to wipe away her tears for nine years, alongside a slight gift from her former partner, demonstrating the depth of her feelings.
Hints Point to Won Bin
Clues provided by Choi Kang-hee – that her former lover was an actor she met on a project, a relative newcomer at the time who later became a top star – led many fans to speculate the identity of her former partner was Won Bin. The two co-starred in the 1999 youth drama, where they displayed a natural chemistry. Around 2000, Won Bin was beginning to gain recognition but hadn’t yet reached the level of stardom he would later achieve through films like My Sassy Girl.
Neither Choi Kang-hee nor Won Bin have officially confirmed the relationship, but it remains a widely discussed “open secret” among fans.
A Shift Away From the Spotlight
After a 25-year career in the entertainment industry, Choi Kang-hee stepped away from acting in 2021. She has since pursued diverse interests, including studying broadcast writing and video editing.
Unconventional Career Paths
During her hiatus, Choi Kang-hee took on a variety of part-time jobs, including working as a waitress and a house cleaner for celebrities. Her cleaning work involved maintaining strict security measures to protect the privacy of her clients. She similarly maintains an active presence on YouTube, sharing daily vlogs about her life outside of acting, even documenting her time working as a sanitation worker.
Reflections on Love and Career
Choi Kang-hee has openly discussed the challenges of dating as a celebrity, expressing a desire for a more ordinary relationship. Currently 49 years old and single, she continues to explore new avenues and share her experiences with the public.
As Choi Kang-hee navigates her evolving career and personal life, fans remain intrigued by her past romance and admire her willingness to embrace new challenges.