Bank ends endorsement deal with actress Han So Hee amid love triangle allegations

South Korean actress Han So Hee. Photo from Han's Instagram

According to Nate, NH Bank had been in collaboration with Han for a duration of three years, culminating in the termination of their contract earlier this month. The bank subsequently declared its intention to select a new celebrity for endorsement purposes.

Allegations against Han for intruding into the eight-year romance between Ryu and his former partner, singer-actress Lee Hyeri, came to light following the acknowledgment by Han and Ryu of their relationship on Saturday. This acknowledgment came after accounts of the couple on a date in Hawaii became public on social media platforms.

In an official declaration, Han countered the allegations that she was the catalyst for Ryu and Lee’s breakup, maintaining that her romantic involvement with Ryu initiated only after she encountered news of his separation from Lee in June last year.

However, her declaration prompted further speculation and criticism from online communities, highlighting the lack of any official confirmation of Ryu and Lee’s breakup in June last year. Instead, online commentators suggested that the disclosure of Ryu and Lee’s parting was actually made in November last year, thereby casting doubt on Han’s honesty.

The public backlash against Han intensified when she was seen at Seoul’s airport, returning from Hawaii on Monday, sporting a jubilant expression and wearing a ring on her pinky finger. Despite a close friend of the actress explaining that the ring was a "friendship ring," symbolizing her bond with friends from her hometown, speculation arose that she was deliberately showcasing her romantic status in defiance of public sentiment.

As a repercussion of the backlash, Han deleted derogatory comments directed at her on her blog.

Meanwhile, Ryu has also faced criticism for his lack of response.

Han, 30, gained widespread attention for her role in the 2020 South Korean television series "The World of the Married." She has been acknowledged for her resemblance to the acclaimed actress Song Hye Kyo and has established a significant presence in the film industry.

Ryu, 38, rose to fame with his role in the South Korean television series "Reply 1988." He is active in the acting sphere and as an entrepreneur.