South Korean actor Song Joong-ki (宋仲基) and his ex-wife Song Hye-kyo (宋慧喬) divorced years ago, but their past marriage continues to be a frequent topic of discussion among netizens. Recently, a video of Song Joong-ki's reaction when Song Hye-kyo was mentioned went viral online. In the clip, his initially smiling expression appeared to change instantly after hearing his ex-wife's name, leading to public speculation and dividing netizens into two camps.
The video, titled "Song Joong-ki's face changed after hearing Song Hye-kyo's name, what happened???" recently gained significant attention. In the clip, Song Joong-ki is surrounded by fans, and when someone mentions Song Hye-kyo, his demeanor seemingly shifts from a smile to a more serious expression. However, he smiles again shortly after when a fan asks for a photo.
In the video, fans can also be heard referring to Song Joong-ki as "the person who married Song Hye-kyo." The revelation of this conversation further fueled the intense discussion surrounding the brief interaction. Given the subtle reaction captured in the video, many netizens began to speculate whether he dislikes being referred to by his ex-wife's name.
Netizen reactions have been sharply divided. Some linked his change in expression to their past marriage and divorce, with some even mocking, "Song Hye-kyo is more famous than this loser; it's a slap in his face!" Others felt that being called "Song Hye-kyo's ex-husband" instead of by his own name could indeed feel disrespectful.
Another group of netizens defended Song Joong-ki, stating, "Don't people understand why he's upset? The fan called him 'Song Hye-kyo's ex-husband' instead of his own name. If you don't get it, just calm down!" Some directly pointed out that such a form of address is inherently disrespectful.
Other netizens argued that Song Joong-ki is also a normal person and cannot be entirely emotionless, saying, "Who would want to constantly hear their ex's name? He has the right to be upset; don't treat him like someone who can't have normal reactions." However, some commented playfully, suggesting he has long moved on and doesn't want their marriage brought up repeatedly.
Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo met while co-starring in the K-drama Descendants of the Sun. Their wedding in 2017 was a sensation across Asia, but their marriage lasted only about 20 months, with divorce papers filed in 2019, shocking the entertainment industry. At the time, both parties publicly stated that the reason for divorce was personality differences. Although both have since moved on to new lives, topics related to their past relationship continue to draw attention.
While the video has reignited discussion, it remains difficult to ascertain Song Joong-ki's true feelings at that moment based solely on a few seconds of changing expressions. Whether it was discomfort with the address or simply a momentary reaction is left to netizens' individual interpretations.
