On September 10, a month following his retirement from Football Choi Jinwook dedicated a handwritten letter to fans, announcing his new relationship to actress Song Hye Kyo, 18 months after the death of his late wife and 4 years after her divorce from Song Joong Ki.
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Read Jinwook's letter below:
"Dear Everyone,
Hello. This is Choi Jinwook. Can you believe that summer has already ended? As you may all know I went through the hardest time of my life two years ago, I learned how much losing someone you love effects you both physically and mentally. I want to thank my supporters infinitely for all of the precious messages that were send to my family. Today, I am writing to tell you about a change and a joy that is occurring in my life.
I have began seeing someone a few months ago. This person was a dear friend and someone who helped me get through those dark times, someone whom I could confide in for anything.
Hye Kyo and I began dating at the end of last year, so I am cautious, but because I wanted to deliver this news to you all first, I am writing this today.
Through this letter, I once again express gratitude to my children who have supported my decision and are happy for me, in addition to Hye Kyo's family who have been supportive of our relationship.
Because of all this sudden news, I'm worried about how you will all react. But as always, I will work hard to show you a good side of me as the commentator for K League 1 and as father to my children.
Although the weather feels like it's getting colder and days get shorter this autumn, these days it feels like a lot in the world has been frozen cold. Everyone take good care of the health of your bodies and minds, and I sincerely thank you for reading this letter.
Thank you."
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Song Hye Kyo also wrote a letter to her fans which read:
"I think many of you would've been surprised by the sudden news but I am currently dating. It may appear as if I lacked consideration for my fans, but I hope you will understand [my intentions], so I feel very cautious about this.
Jinwook was a friend for a long time, and we are building up positive feelings while relying on each other.
At first, Jinwook was a friend who instantly clicked well with me. As we got accustomed to together, we discovered that we had similar values and we could really talk about anything.
He is a reliable and cute person who has supported me for a long time, always told me I'm amazing, and sent me sincere encouragement. He has always been there for me and supported me, I will never forget those overwhelmingly happy moments.
Over time, the faith and trust that he has shown me through the years helped me imagine a future with him. I was thankful that he had such genuine feelings for me, and I was also able to confirm my own feelings for him.
I wanted to relay the news of our relationship to my fans first, but I had to be careful because it wasn't only my decision. I feel nervous announcing the news all of a sudden, but I trust that my fans will support me. Please continue to love me like you have until now. Thank you for waiting and believing in me.
Since you have all found out now, we will date quietly and beautifully to not worry anyone. Please give us your blessings!
Thank you."
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Following his and Hye Kyo's letters, United Artists Agency released an official statement:
"Hello. This is UAA.
We are announcing news regarding Hye Kyo and Choi Jinwook.
Song Hye Kyo and Choi Jinwook recently progressed from being close friends into being a couple, and they are maintaining a serious relationship.
Please show lots of support so they can continue their beautiful relationship.
