Super Junior leader Leeteuk recently broke his silence about rumors that he is dating a professional golfer named Jang So Hee, who is reportedly 18 years younger than him. The rumors especially picked up steam after photos surfaced, but Leeteuk says things are not what they seem.
What Sparked the Rumors
It all started when photos circulated online showing Leeteuk and Jang So Hee dining together at a restaurant inside a golf course.
Additionally, people have noticed that Leeteuk follows Jang So Hee on Instagram (she is one of the 82 people he follows) and that she won the 14th KLPGA Grand Slam Jump Tour in 2024.
According to her profile, she was born in October 2001, making her about 23 years old at the time. Leeteuk, born in 1983, is around 42 years old.
Leeteuk’s Explanation
During a live stream, Leeteuk addressed the rumors directly. He said he was surprised when he first saw the photos. He explained that on the day the pictures were taken, he was with Shindong, another Super Junior member, and others at a country club event — not on a private date.
He also pushed back on how the photos were presented to the public. According to Leeteuk, some photos made it appear that he went alone with Jang So-hee. He says those images were misleading.
One small detail that added fuel to speculation was a cardigan that appears to belong to Leeteuk. In the live stream, he clarified that sometimes, after golf outings, people ask him to bring warm clothing if others feel cold. He said that may have been the case in this situation.
What He is Asking For
Leeteuk seems especially concerned about how the photos were taken and shared. He said he plans to file a complaint with the golf club where the pictures were taken. He wants to know who snapped those images and how they made them look as though he was alone or hiding something.
He also expressed frustration at how persistent the rumors have been. He said one person, in particular, keeps showing up during his live streams and uses different usernames. He is unsure if that person is a fan or someone who wants to stir trouble.
Fan Reactions and Broader Conversation
Fans have had mixed reactions. Some believe Leeteuk’s explanation and say he is being unfairly targeted. Others think that public figures need to be more mindful of how they appear and what associations might be interpreted.
There is also a broader discussion about privacy, the amount of evidence required, and the balance between public interest and personal boundaries.
There has been no confirmation from SM Entertainment (Leeteuk’s agency) that supports a romantic relationship. Leeteuk’s statements serve as his side of the story.
Final Thoughts
Leeteuk handled this well. He addressed the issues head-on without over-explaining. He acknowledged the photos, gave context, and expressed his concerns about misleading framing. In fields like K-pop, where fan interest is intense, rumors spread fast.
When they do, a measured public response is often the most effective course of action.
However, Leeteuk’s plan to pursue the matter legally or through formal complaint channels is also important. It sends a message that wrongful interpretation or manipulation of images is not harmless. It matters for celebrities and for ordinary people, too.
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