Actor Song Joong-ki, who recently returned to the screen with his new film My Youth, sparked a heated debate after sharing his thoughts on relationships during an appearance on the variety show Yoo Yeon-seok’s Weekend Comedy.

When asked, “What if your partner drinks with someone of the opposite sex?” the 40-year-old actor replied, “I don’t really pay attention to that… but after 10 PM is bedtime.” Many interpreted this as a subtle disapproval of late-night drinking with the opposite sex.

The comment quickly went viral, trending No.2 on Weibo, drawing mixed reactions from fans. Some criticized Song Joong-ki for being controlling, linking his attitude to his past marriage with Song Hye-kyo and suggesting it contributed to their divorce. Critics argued that his expectations might clash with a partner focused on career, unlike his current wife, Katy Louise Saunders.

Cnet users wrote:

• It seems he only wants a beautiful, obedient woman who can have children. Compared to Song Hye-kyo, who is career-driven, his current wife fits the mold better.
• Song Hye-kyo made the right choice divorcing him.
• Actors often need to interact with many people. If he sets such rules, dating within the industry might be difficult.

However, many defended Song Joong-ki, saying that wanting a partner to maintain boundaries with the opposite sex is reasonable. They argued that drinking late at night can be risky and that his stance is about safety and trust, not control: “After marriage, it’s normal to keep some boundaries with friends of the opposite sex” and “I wouldn’t accept my partner drinking with someone else after 10 PM either. That’s reasonable.”

Born on September 19, 1985, Song Joong-ki is a renowned South Korean actor known for Sungkyunkwan Scandal, A Werewolf Boy, and Descendants of the Sun, which catapulted him to global fame.

He was previously married to co-star Song Hye Kyo and, in 2023, married British actress Katy Louise Saunders, with whom he has two children. Known for his youthful looks and versatile acting, he remains a top figure in the Hallyu wave.

Currently, he is actively promoting My Youth, starring alongside award-winning actress Chun Woo Hee.

Sources: k14