IU, whose real name is Lee Ji-eun and Lee Jong-suk have confirmed their split after four years of dating.The couple officially started dating in 2022. They developed a close friendship while co-hosting the music show Inkigayo in 2012. Their relationship eventually turned into romance which was confirmed in December 2022.According to their respective agencies, EDAM Entertainment and ACE FACTORY, they have mutually parted ways and intend to remain on good terms. The agencies said in a statement:"It is true that they have ended their relationship. They have decided to remain good colleagues.”As per the reports, their breakup was driven by their busy schedules, which made it difficult for the pair to maintain their relationship. Despite their split, both stars continue to focus on their careers. IU has been preparing for upcoming concerts and music projects, and Lee Jong-suk has been gearing up for his new drama, The Remarried Empress.Continue reading for more information.Relationship history of IU and Lee Jong-suk exploredIU and Lee Jong-suk were known to be the Korean entertainment industry’s longest and one of the most beloved couples. Their breakup has been confirmed by the Korean entertainment outlet, Dispatch.Many fans expressed heartbreak, calling them one of the most “wholesome” couples. Others wished them well for their future.A person stated:“Relationships end, but wishing them both happiness and success moving forward. Sad.”Another added:“Although it hurts, I wish them both happiness.”A third user commented:“Yup, four years of public dating is a long time. Glad they ended it amicably, she deserve better and I'm happy for her next chapter!” Lee Ji-eun poses for brand J.ESTINA - Photocall - Source: GettyThey first met while hosting the SBS music program Inkigayo in 2012. After developing a close bond for about a decade, the couple developed romantic feelings towards one another.In October 2022, IU surprised fans when she attended the wedding of Lee's brother and gave a heartwarming performance on Meaning Of You. The singer’s agency EDAM Entertainment confirmed their relationship in December 2022. It shared:“Lee Jong-Suk and IU have recently progressed from close colleagues into a relationship.”The two spoke about each other in interviews. In early 2023, both wrote heartfelt letters to their fans via fan cafes. Lee wrote:“At the time, I was moving on with my life. However, there was always a part of my heart that belonged to her. It was strange, indeed. I think you would all understand it if I put it this way; She was like Kang Dan-I to me.”U called him a “reliable and cute person” who has supported her for a long time and gives her sincere encouragement. While promoting her hit drama, When Life Gives You Tangerines, IU indirectly referenced Lee Jong-suk when talking about support during busy times.In another interview, IU said that she loves taking acting advice from Lee since they are in the same profession. In April 2023, Lee supported his girlfriend by displaying various ‘IU merchandise.’Rumors of a breakup between IU and Lee Jong-suk first surfaced in August 2024, when a post on the Korean forum Pann Nate went viral. It was titled something along the lines of titled ‘I think Lee Jong-suk and IU have broken up.’ The post gained thousands of views with fans speculating about their breakup. However, in the coming months fans noticed that they were still together.In September 2024, Lee was seen attending the IU HEREH World Tour in Seoul. However, in February 2025, rumors of their breakup surfaced again on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. At that time, fans showed concern, but soon netizens shared that the duo were spotted flaunting couple items.