Ko So-young speaks on relationship with Jang Dong-gun

Korean actress Ko So-young gave her first official statement since admitting yesterday that she has been dating top Hallyu star Jang Dong-gun.

The 37-year-old actress wrote on her fan club "Pretty Number One" website today: "My family members, you must have all been very surprised yesterday. It was a little surprising and very joyful day."

She went on to say, "I'm very happy and glad to be with Dong-gun, who is very supportive, but I'm a little cautious," and asked her fans to "please understand and bless us."

The news of two of the biggest stars in Korea's entertainment industry admitting to their romantic relationship made headlines across the country on Thursday.

Dating rumors first surfaced ten years ago when they appeared together in 1999 film "Love Wind, Love Song". It has recurred several times over the years, but both stars had denied such reports everytime.

Jang, one of Korea's top actors since his debut in 1993, has won several critical acclaims for his roles in hit films including "Friend" and "Taegukgi", the third most-watched Korean film in box office history.

Ko, who debuted in the same year as Jang, has not shot a film since 2007 but has appeared in over a dozen films including 1997 film "Beat" which gained her stardom after appearing alongside co-star Jung Woo-sung.

The two have yet to confirm their marriage plans, but sources closes to the star couple said that Ko has recently started planning the wedding.

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr