‘Because she was such a lovable national sister that everyone liked her, but I was annoyed with her,’ Lee Jong-suk once said about IU in a 2013 talk show. Little did anyone know, his feelings toward the singer were about to take a dramatic turn.

IU (real name Lee Ji-eun) and Lee Jong-suk first crossed paths in 2012 as co-hosts on SBS Inkigayo. The singer-actress was already hosting the show for over a year when Jong-suk joined her. Their on-screen dynamic was famously distant, and many rumors began to circulate that they didn't have a good relationship off-screen.

In a 2013 talk show interview, Jong-suk confirmed that they were indeed distant as co-workers, rarely communicating about anything other than work. He even admitted to getting annoyed with IU for pitching fun and silly matching costumes and skits for the two of them to do on the broadcast. Jong-suk confessed that he felt embarrassed by the costumes, despite knowing IU's intentions were good. However, by the time he left the show, his feelings toward IU changed, and he developed a bit of affection toward the singer.

IU, however, had no idea about Jong-suk's frustrations during their time on the show. In a talk show interview of her own, she apologized for it, stating it was now 'water under the bridge.' Before Jong-suk left the show, the two were able to talk things out and develop a good relationship, with Jong-suk calling her a close friend in various interviews.

Their friendship began a decade-long journey that would eventually turn into romance. Both IU and Lee Jong-suk have had successful careers in the entertainment industry. IU has starred in numerous dramas, including Hotel Del Luna and Love Poem, while Lee Jong-suk has appeared in shows like Romance is a Bonus Book and Prime Minister and Me.

In 2022, signs began to emerge that Jong-suk and IU had become much closer. Lee Jong-suk held a fan meeting where he performed IU's song 'Meaning for You.' Just days later, he attended IU's The Golden Hour concert at the Seoul Olympic Stadium.

Jong-suk's public displays of affection for IU sparked curiosity among fans and the media at the time. IU has been tight-lipped about the specifics of their relationship, but a source close to the couple revealed that it began to blossom in 2022. IU's team has been denying any romance between them, but fans have been speculating for years based on their interactions on social media.

IU and Lee Jong-suk's relationship has taken everyone by surprise, especially considering their long history as friends and co-hosts. While their relationship status is still unclear, fans remain excited to see how their romance unfolds.