Actress and businesswoman Koo Hye Sun has publicly asked variety shows to stop making indirect comments about her past divorce with actor Ahn Jae Hyun. On August 8, 2025, she posted a long message on her social media, expressing frustration over how their divorce is still being discussed in entertainment programs. She called it “secondary harm” and urged producers to be more careful with their content.
Koo and Ahn got married in 2016 after meeting on the set of the drama “Blood” but divorced in 2020 after a public dispute. Since then, both have moved on with their careers—Koo as a CEO of a venture company and Ahn as an active variety show participant. However, Koo says some shows keep bringing up their past in ways that hurt her.
Koo Hye Sun Says Divorce References Are “Cowardly”
In her post, Koo explained that she and Ahn had agreed not to publicly argue about their divorce details. She said that even though their split was difficult, they chose to stop fighting over who was right or wrong. However, she feels that some TV shows are breaking this unspoken agreement by making jokes or indirect remarks about their past.
“I do not believe it is in line with proper journalistic ethics to repeatedly highlight and stigmatize ‘five years since the divorce’ in news headlines. Divorce is a process in which both parties assert their own grievances, making it an extremely difficult and selfish ordeal. Despite the fact that my divorce with my ex-spouse was far from amicable, I believe that the ongoing, indirect references and remarks—especially those that make it possible to infer my identity—are cowardly acts.”
She also criticized shows that ask Ahn leading questions about his past marriage, saying it puts both of them in an uncomfortable position.
Netizens React With Mixed Opinions
After Koo’s post went viral, online discussions split into two sides. Some people supported her, agreeing that divorce should not be used as entertainment material. Others, however, felt she was overreacting.
“Is she crazy? Does she really think the world revolves around her?”
“She’s the one who continuously mentions this… does she want to put that frame on Ahn Jae Hyun?”
“If she doesn’t want to be mentioned, she should stop talking about it. I saw him on variety shows, and it’s just his friends making fun of him for being single… he doesn’t mock her at all.”
Despite the criticism, Koo stood by her words, saying she has the right to speak up when something hurts her.
Koo Hye Sun’s New Life As A CEO And Inventor
While dealing with public discussions about her divorce, Koo has been busy with her new career as a businesswoman. She recently shared that her company, which produces a patented foldable hair roller called “KOO ROLL”, has been officially certified as a venture business. She also opened a new office and is preparing to launch the product soon.
In addition to her business, Koo is studying for a master’s degree in science journalism at KAIST. She has reinvented herself since her divorce, focusing on education and entrepreneurship instead of acting.
Ahn Jae Hyun’s Recent Variety Show Appearances
Ahn Jae Hyun has been active in variety shows, including “Heart on Wheels”, where he received a playful gift from co-star Lee Min Jung—a women’s perfume with the comment, “Hope you meet someone nice.” While it seemed like a lighthearted moment, Koe Hye Sun felt it indirectly referenced their past relationship.
Koo ended her post by saying she hopes Ahn is recognized for his own work, not just as her ex-husband.
“I sincerely hope that my ex-husband will continue to pursue his own unique identity and authenticity, to be recognized and to grow and succeed—not as someone defined by their connection to me, but as an individual in their own right.”
The debate over how divorce is discussed in entertainment continues, with Koo’s statement bringing attention to the issue of “secondary harm” caused by media coverage.
Also Read: Koo Hye Sun Explains Her Hat Choice on Radio Star: A Boiler Breakdown to Blame
Credits: Hankyung
