High-profile Asian entertainment industry divorces in 2023

Japanese actress Hirosue Ryoko and sculptor Izutsu Jun

Hirosue announced her divorce on July 23 after being accused of infidelity by her husband Izutsu, according to Sina.

The couple had reportedly gone through a tense phase due to the actress’ repeated "cheating behavior" before eventually divorcing

Hirosue, 43, made her television debut in 1995. She is best known for her role in the Academy Award-winning Japanese film "Departures."

Her divorce caused a stir in the Japanese entertainment industry for several months. She subsequently withdrew from many projects after the news and has since stayed low-profile.

She tied the knot with Izutsu, 49, in 2010.

Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi and musician Wang Feng

Actress Zhang Ziyi. Photo from Zhang's management agency's Weibo

Zhang confirmed her divorce from Wang through her management company on Oct. 23.

Although Zhang stated that the marriage had ended on good terms and "separation doesn’t mean disappointment or betrayal," sources suggested that the reason behind their separation was Wang’s gambling and infidelity.

Zhang’s divorce created a buzz but quickly subsided. The two ex-partners are reportedly focusing on their careers and sharing time parenting their young child now.

Zhang, 44, gained international recognition with her role in the 2000 movie "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," which received 10 Academy Awards nominations. She also garnered many awards for her appearance in the 2013 movie "The Grandmaster."

Wang, 52, gained immense popularity as a rock musician as well as a coach on "The Voice of China."

The two tied the knot in 2015, marking Zhang’s first and Wang’s third marriage.

Taiwanese actress-singer Vivian Hsu and businessman Sean Lee

Hsu confirmed her split from her Singapore-based husband on Dec. 10, after nine years together.

Sources revealed that Hsu, 48, and Lee, 45, initiated their divorce process in November, and reports have said that their son will stay in Singapore following the divorce.

The separation caused shock among the couple’s fans, as they had stayed together despite numerous false rumors about financial and relationship problems over the years.

Hsu started her career in the entertainment industry in 1990. She has accomplished many achievements in her acting and singing careers.

South Korean singer Han Areum and businessman Kim Young Gul

Han, 29, announced her divorce from the 32-year-old businessman Kim Young Gul on Dec. 10. She then revealed the news of her remarriage only a day later.

Rather than a sudden decision, Han’s divorce was believed to be the result of a longtime contemplation, as she had hinted at intending to divorce when participating in a TV show in May 2022.

Han is a former member of the girl group T-ara. She tied the knot with Kim in 2019.

Taiwanese-born singer-actress Karena Lam and filmmaker Steve Yuen

Lam, 45, and her husband, the 57-year-old filmmaker Steve Yuen, announced their split in early July after 12 years together and the birth of two children.

Media outlets reported that their separation resulted from a combination of personality differences, conflicts in parenting, and financial disputes.

Taiwanese singer-actor Blue Lan and actress Jade Chou

Lan, 44, confirmed his split from Chou, 46, in June after a long period of trouble.

The couple had been together for nearly 10 years and have two children.