Lee Jae Wook Mentions Relationship With aespa’s Karina, Triggers Intense Backlash

Fans aren’t happy.

Actor Lee Jae Wook is facing backlash after briefly mentioning his past relationship with aespa’s Karina during a recent interview.

Although his words were cautious, fans of the girl group star are expressing frustration online, accusing the actor of using her name for publicity.

In an interview with Xports News, Lee Jae Wook discussed his latest projects, including the upcoming film Dear Hongrang. During the conversation, he was also asked about The Impossible Heir, the K-Drama he was filming when his dating news with Karina first broke.

Lee Jae Wook made headlines in February last year for his relationship with aespa’s Karina. At the time, he was filming ‘Dear Hongrang.’ When asked whether the dating news affected his work, he answered:

‘It wasn’t hard to get into/stay focused in character [because of the relationship]. But if I go into too much detail, it might get personal.’

— Xports News

The pair confirmed their relationship in February 2024 after Dispatch revealed they were dating. At the time, reports stated the two would often meet in Lee Jae Wook’s neighborhood and had even been spotted on late-night walks.

However, the relationship lasted only a few weeks before both agencies confirmed they had split.

Aespa’s Karina And Lee Jae Wook Have Reportedly Broken Up

Though the actor kept his answer vague, the mention of the relationship has stirred heated reactions among fans. Many feel that Karina — who even issued an apology for the brief romance in a handwritten Instagram letter last year — has worked hard to move past the situation, and that bringing it up now serves little purpose other than gaining attention.

Fans are accusing the actor of unnecessary name-dropping, especially since Karina has chosen not to revisit the matter publicly since their breakup. Many allege that the actor brings the topic up during promotional periods to generate buzz for his work.

Stop mentioning her name for fuck’s sake and move on.. hope that work also flops

— fml (@ciwywfml) May 19, 2025