Earlier, there was a report by Korean news outlet Naver, that Hyunseung formerly of boy band Beast (also known as B2ST) and former pro-rhythmic gymnast Olympian Shin Soo Ji were dating. In their report, their source claimed the two became quite close through their shared interest in bowling. Since then, they've been dating for about three or four months.
At the time of the report, it was it was relegated as rumors as neither Hyunseung, Shin Soo Ji, or their respective labels confirmed the dating rumors to be true.
That is no longer the case as Cube Entertainment and Soo Ji's label have come forward confirming the two Hallyu stars' relationship.
The Hallyu stars' labels confirm the relationship
Both labels representing Hyunseung and Shin Soo Ji confirmed the relationship between the two on Friday, January 5, 2018, KST. Starting with the former, Cube Entertainment went to Hyunseung and learned they've been dating for about four months.As for the latter, Soo Ji's side said she is in a loving relationship with Hyunseung and they are normally good at public displays of affection. They also claim they are a nice couple to observe.
Now the relationship is public, what now?
Now that Hyunseung and Shin Soo Ji's relationship is public knowledge, the question is now what? The answer is similar to all Hallyu couples who go public with their relationships: they move forward but with the spotlight shining on them.
For Hyunseung, that means working on his solo album. Last April, it was made official that he left Beast to pursue a solo career. Since then, he joined a dance competition program called "Hit the Stage" which in turn became his first broadcast since leaving Beast. He also renewed his exclusive contract with his label. Right now, he is working on his solo album debut though it is hitting a couple of roadblocks due to internal issues.
As for Shin Soo Ji, she retired from her rhythmic gymnastics career back in 2011. Since then, she earned professional status as a bowler (which would be the one thing that first connects her with Hyunseung).
The only major issues the new couple will have to deal with are usual: time apart from each other and trivial gossip. Time shouldn't be an issue as Hyunseung is secure in his career despite on starting a solo career. As for Soo Ji, she may not have as much of a complicated work schedule. Where they need to be careful is in gossip. Though many K-pop fans are happy for the two, there are many others who wish Hyunseung ended up with someone of their preference.
If the two of them can stay the course of their relationship, keeping to what matters, they may achieve the happy ending other Hallyu couples have. For now, congratulations to Hyunseung and Shin Soo Ji on being one of the first Hallyu couples of 2018.