Renowned idol-turned-actress Kim Sejeong has finally addressed swirling rumors of a romantic relationship with her former "Business Proposal" co-star, Ahn Hyo Seop.

Speculations regarding a possible real-life romance between the pair have been rife lately, fueled by coincidental posts on their individual Instagram accounts. These posts featured photographs from Japan, leading to conjectures that the duo might have taken a joint trip to the country.

The speculation was further inflamed when Ahn Hyo Seop shared a picture of a female hand on his Instagram, which he subsequently deleted. Fans quickly jumped to conclusions, asserting that the hand resembled Kim Sejeong's.

The rumor mill was already churning due to the striking chemistry the two displayed in the 2022 SBS hit drama, "Business Proposal." Their on-screen rapport won them the "Best Couple" award at the network's year-end ceremony, prompting fans to eagerly root for a real-life romance.

Kim Sejeong addressed these rumors directly during a live session on Weverse, a community platform for fans, on June 13. When asked about the supposed trip to Japan with Ahn Hyo Seop, Sejeong quickly put the rumors to rest. "Why would I go on a trip with (Hyo Seop) oppa? I actually went to Japan with my best friend and my older brother," she stated, debunking the speculations.

As of now, Ahn Hyo Seop's camp has not released any statement regarding the rumors. Ahn is currently leading the SBS Friday-Saturday drama "Dr. Romantic 3," while Kim Sejeong is preparing for her role in tvN's "The Uncanny Counter Season 2: Counter Punch," which is scheduled to premiere in July.

Before venturing into acting, Kim Sejeong was a popular K-pop idol under Jellyfish Entertainment. She rose to fame in 2016 after participating in Mnet's "Produce 101" Season 1, where she impressed with her vocal and dance skills, and her charming personality.

She ended up as the second runner-up in the show, which led her to join the girl group project I.O.I. Later that year, she was revealed to be a member of Jellyfish's new girl group, Gugudan, and also launched her solo career.

Following I.O.I's disbandment in 2017, Sejeong transitioned into acting, a career she has pursued consistently since. Gugudan also disbanded in 2020 after four years.