Single’s Inferno 5 Favorite Kim Go-eun Confirms She Is Not Dating Jo I-geon

South Korean model Kim Go-eun addresses her relationship status with Jo I-geon following a controversial TV appearance and social media backlash from fans.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 30, 2026, 7:34 AM EDT

Source: CNA

The Final Verdict on a Reality Television Romance

The highly anticipated relationship between South Korean model Kim Go-eun and Jo I-geon has reached a definitive conclusion that has disappointed many dedicated followers. During a 32-minute vlog posted to her personal YouTube channel on Friday, Go-eun directly answered the question that has dominated her social media comments for weeks. She stated clearly that she and I-geon are currently not dating in real life. While the two shared a powerful connection during the fifth season of the popular dating show, Go-eun explained that they have chosen to remain close friends rather than pursuing a formal romantic partnership.

A Timeline of Confusion and Public Appearances

The timing of this revelation has caused a stir within the South Korean entertainment industry due to the conflicting messages delivered by the pair in the days leading up to the vlog. On Thursday, March 26, only 24 hours before the announcement, the two appeared together on an episode of The TrueMan Show. During that broadcast, hosted by comedian Lee Yong-jin, both participants suggested that their relationship was progressing smoothly toward a romantic outcome. Jo I-geon went as far as to say their bond was leaning more toward romance than friendship, a statement that fueled high expectations among their supporters in the Asia region and beyond.

Backlash From a Frustrated Fan Base

Following the release of the video, Kim Go-eun faced an immediate wave of criticism from netizens who felt misled by her recent television appearance. Critics accused the model of providing mixed signals and complicating what many perceived as a straightforward romantic connection. One prominent online comment compared her behavior to past controversial cast members, highlighting the intensity of the public’s emotional investment in the reality stars. The central grievance among the fan base was not the lack of a relationship itself, but rather the ambiguity that Go-eun maintained while I-geon appeared more transparent about his feelings.