Influencer Yu Hye-won is gaining attention following her appearance in "Couple Palace" Season 2. Captured from Yu Hye-won's SNS
By KTimes
Social media influencer Yu Hye-won, who was previously involved in dating rumors with former BIGBANG member Seungri, is gaining attention after appearing on Season 2 of Mnet's "Couple Palace."
The reality show, which premiered on Feb. 5, quickly made waves, ranking 10th in the non-drama TV-streaming category for the first week of February, according to Good Data Corporation’s FUNdex. Viewer interest in Yu has been particularly strong.
On the variety show, after Yu's face was revealed, the male contestants enthusiastically voted for her, and she ultimately received eight votes, ranking first in the popularity poll.
Introducing herself on the show, Yu said, "I am a beauty model and influencer with 440,000 social media followers, currently earning an annual salary of 150 million won ($112,500)."
Yu first gained public attention due to dating rumors with Seungri. The controversy was reignited when photos surfaced of the two together in Bangkok, following Seungri's release from prison after his convictions for sex crimes and gambling.
Born in 1995, Yu made her acting debut on a web drama in 2018, but did not pursue additional acting projects afterward.
Last year, she was also rumored to be dating basketball player Heo Ung, though his side quickly denied the speculation.
In an interview with the production team, Yu said, "I’m not sure if I should even be on a show like this. I’ve been involved in dating rumors, and they seem to follow me like a label. But I guess there’s nothing I can do about it. I just want to find a good match and build something meaningful."
According to industry insiders, Yu has received multiple offers for brand endorsements and TV appearances. However, she has declined these opportunities, choosing instead to take personal time and consider her future career plans carefully.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.
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