South Korean actor Lee Chae Min clearly knows what it means to be a loving partner. After the breakout success of his historical romance drama Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, the young star has garnered more attention regarding his personal life, and particularly his relationship with actress Ryu Da In.
Recently, Lee faced backlash online after his girlfriend was targeted with online hate, but instead of responding in words, Lee Chae Min responded with actions — being there
The Rise of a New Leading Man
After winning the hearts of audiences in dramas like Crash Course in Romance and Love All Play, Lee Chae Min saw his fame soar after landing the role of Crown Prince Yi Heon in the successful Bon Appétit, Your Majesty. The drama proved to be a breakout show and established Lee Chae Min as one of the most buzzed-about rising Korean actors in 2025. With fame comes public attention, especially around Lee Chae Min’s connection to rising star Ryu Da In, who is also building a career.
After the two were seen holding hands, and posting the same photos on Instagram, they confirmed their relationship in March 2024. Lee Chae Min and Ryu Da In first crossed paths on the set of Crash Course in Romance (2023), where their helpful on-screen friend relationship blossomed into a real-life romance. Fans were largely supportive of the couple, praising them for being open about their relationship and for normalizing dating for actors in the entertainment industry, where the majority of stars do their best to hide relationships from public view to avoid backlash.
When Fame Turns to Fire: Ryu Da In Faces Online Hate
As Lee Chae Min’s star continued to rise, so did the spotlight on Ryu Da In. Following the broadcast of Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, her social media pages were flooded with hurtful and unnecessary comments from a few overzealous fans. Some users unfairly targeted her with jealousy-driven remarks, claiming she was benefiting from her boyfriend’s fame. Others questioned her looks or acting abilities — a sadly common occurrence for female celebrities dating popular male stars.
But rather than respond online, Lee Chae Min chose a quiet yet powerful way to defend his girlfriend — through love, respect, and togetherness.
The Viral “Pancake Date”
In early October 2025, a restaurant employee in Seoul shared a now-viral post about spotting the couple enjoying lunch together. The eyewitness described them as “a handsome and beautiful couple” who appeared “comfortable and affectionate.” The sweetest part? Lee Chae Min reportedly made pancakes himself to serve to Ryu Da In.
Fans couldn’t get enough of this real-life romantic gesture. Many saw it as his way of silencing haters without confrontation — showing through simple acts that his relationship remains strong and loving.
“Perfect comeback to all the haters. My respect for Lee Chae Min and Da In has multiplied,” one fan wrote on social media.
“Good for them! They’ve been dating before he even got popular,” another added.
Addressing Rumors and Staying Grounded
In a recent interview, Lee Chae Min addressed a few circulating rumors about “Lovestagram” posts and couple rings. Some fans noticed similar birthday candles and accessories used by the two, fueling speculation that they were secretly hinting at each other online. The actor dismissed it calmly, calling it a coincidence, and explained that the ring he wore was merely a fashion accessory, not a romantic signal.
His polite and grounded response further earned public admiration. By neither denying nor overexplaining his relationship, Lee Chae Min managed to protect both his privacy and Ryu Da In’s dignity.
A Relationship Built on Mutual Growth
Both Lee Chae Min and Ryu Da In, who were born in 2000, represent the new generation of Korean actors who are learning to reconcile love and career in the public eye. Rather than hide, they are opting for authenticity. Since speaking publicly, their willingness to share their relationship development has been met with positive sentiment from both fans and associates, as they represent a model of young celebrities dating outside of fear.
The pair have also continued to advocate for themselves professionally, as Lee Chae Min continues to bask in the glory of their popularity in Bon Appétit, Your Majesty!, and Ryu Da In is likewise being recognized for their performance in Pyramid Game and My Lovely Boxer. Their best mutual support is one of the most endearing things about their relationship.
Public Reactions: From Hate to Heartwarming Support
Initially, fans were concerned about the online hatred directed towards Ryu Da In, which must have been difficult for her. However, with Lee Chae Min’s consistent love and affection, public dates, and even his calm demeanor, the conversation is shifting. There are more and more fans defending the couple, calling for maturity and empathy in fandom culture.
The hashtag #NormalizeDatingPublicly began trending on Korean social media, and fans expressed this sentiment with messages like, “celebrities are entitled to a ‘normal’ life, too.” Others noted that Lee Chae Min’s actions, which were simple, kind, and authentic, show a way for celebrities and public figures to combat toxicity without going into confrontation.
Why This Moment Matters
The South Korean entertainment world has been known for its harsh rules surrounding idol and actor relationships. Dating scandals have long ruined careers, especially for those trying to gain the favor of the public in the early stages of their careers. Examples like Lee Chae Min and Ryu Da In show that outdated philosophy is challenged. Their act of openness, while still respectful, moves the culture into acceptance.
Their anecdote isn’t simply a romantic tale — it involves resilience, kindness, and maturity in an age when social media allows hate to thrive. Lee Chae Min standing up for his partner, even when being publicly.
Final Thoughts
Lee Chae Min and Ryu Da In continue the relationship they started long before either became public figures, amidst a whirlwind of notoriety, rumors and online chatter. Their quiet self-assurance and steadfast support for each other reminds fans of two things: Yes, they may be stars, but that does not absolve them of compassion and privacy.
As Lee Chae Min said in an interview, “I’m flattered by the attention, I just wish people could see the person more than the actor”….with every thoughtful action…even flipping a pancake as he wears a ‘Dad is?’ apron, is still a demonstration that he is just a down-to-earth guy who
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