Source: Instagram 2023.05.04 – 2023.06.09
Momo, a member of the K-pop group TWICE, is renowned for her dance skills in the K-pop industry.
On February 6, 2023, Momo reached over 10 million followers on Instagram, becoming the first Japanese person to do so, sparking discussions.
The highly popular TWICE member, Momo, was previously in a relationship with Hichul.
This time, we’ll delve into the beginnings of Momo and Hichul’s relationship and the reasons behind their breakup.
TWICE Momo’s Family Consists of Four Members! Her Parents are Popular Among Fans! Her Sister is a Dance Instructor
Momo’s family consists of four members. Her parents are well-known among fans. Her father runs an acupuncture and chiropractic clinic, while her sister is a popular dance instructor.
kpop-star.net 2023.06.09
Momo’s Past Boyfriend is Hichul
August 6, 2019 Love report denied at the time
The news of Momo’s relationship first circulated on August 6, 2019, according to an exclusive report by a Korean internet media outlet. Her partner was revealed to be Kim Hichul from SUPER JUNIOR.
Kim Hichul debuted with SUPER JUNIOR in 2005 and was active not only as a singer but also as a variety show host, MC, and actor.
According to media reports, “The two have been in a serious relationship for two years since their appearance on a certain TV show in 2017.”
Indeed, Hichul openly declared himself as a fervent fan of Momo in 2016 and mentioned on numerous shows that “Momo is his ideal type.” They appeared together on various variety shows as well.
However, both their agencies denied the exclusive report, stating it was baseless, and the dating rumors were concluded as a misunderstanding.
Resurfacing of Dating Rumors on January 2, 2020
On January 2, 2020, the news of Momo and Hichul’s relationship resurfaced.
According to an exclusive interview by a Korean internet media outlet that reported the dating rumors on August 6, 2019: “They cherish each other’s love despite their busy schedules. Despite various incidents and the harsh entertainment industry, they’ve become significant supports for each other.”
On the same day, both agencies released statements:
- SJ Label, Hichul’s agency: “They’ve been close seniors and juniors in the entertainment industry, but recently, they’ve developed good feelings for each other.”
- JYP Entertainment, Momo’s agency: “After confirming, they became close as seniors and juniors in the entertainment industry and have recently developed good feelings for each other.”
The difference in nationality between Korea and Japan, a 13-year age gap, and the emergence of a high-profile couple crossing agency boundaries caused a huge commotion.
Public Reaction to TWICE Momo & Hichul’s Open Relationship
Upon the confirmation of their relationship, fans inundated the couple with a storm of blessings.
Fans seemed delighted by the news!
Reasons Why TWICE Momo & Hichul’s Public Relationship Gained Support
The public support for TWICE Momo and Hichul’s public relationship can be attributed to:
- Hichul’s reliability as a “long-standing idol”
- Hichul’s high intimacy with fans
- Momo’s active role in TWICE
Hichul, after 15 years since his debut, remained active not only in group activities but also in variety shows without taking breaks. There were reactions from fans and industry insiders saying, “It’s about time for Hichul to experience love.”
Momo, known for her amiable personal
ity, had been actively contributing to the K-pop world as a Japanese artist, displaying remarkable dance skills, and garnering strong support from fans. This hard work and dedication from both sides were widely accepted.
Momo’s Letter After Dating Rumors
On January 6, Momo publicly shared a handwritten letter for the first time after the dating rumors.
Her passionate feelings for ONCE (TWICE fans’ nickname) stirred discussions.
“I have so much I want to tell ONCE, and I’m not sure if I can organize it well, but I wanted to write a letter.” “Since 2020, I’ve been surprising ONCE, and I feel really sorry about it.” “I find it so enjoyable to interact with ONCE, and every moment is a happiness.” “I really wanted to express how much ONCE means to me.” “From now on, I want to create more happy memories with ONCE! I’m always sincerely grateful!”
Fans were deeply moved by Momo’s sentiments.
Reports of the Breakup Between TWICE Momo & Hichul
On July 8, 2021, the Korean media outlet “Daily Economic Star Today” reported about the breakup between the two.
In response, officials from Momo’s agency confirmed, “It is true that Kim Hichul and Momo have broken up.” Officials from Hichul’s agency also acknowledged the breakup but found it challenging to provide specific details as it involves the artists’ private lives.
The relationship between TWICE Momo and Hichul lasted for one year and six months.
For fans who had supported the Japanese-Korean couple, this announcement was shocking.
Three Reasons for the Breakup Between TWICE Momo & Hichul
The reasons for the breakup led to various speculations. Let’s explore some:
- They grew distant due to their busy schedules.
- Hichul had no desire for marriage.
- Hichul was more engrossed in games than in the relationship.
Reason for the Breakup 1: Growing Distant
Korean newspapers analyzed that they grew distant from each other.
Considering their extremely busy schedules, it’s a plausible reason.
Reason for the Breakup 2: Hichul’s Lack of Desire for Marriage
Two months before the breakup report in May 2021, Hichul made the following statement on a TV show: “There’s a recent trend of many people not getting married. I, myself, have no intention of getting married.”
As everyone acknowledged their relationship, his statement of not intending to marry caused waves.
However, considering that during their relationship, Hichul had previously stated, “I want to get married by the age of 40,” some interpreted this as a statement made to avoid deeper inquiries and to consider Momo’s feelings.
Reason for the Breakup 3: Hichul’s Obsession with Games
Hichul is known to be a dedicated gamer.
Speculations arose that Hichul’s gaming addiction might have led to the breakup.
This speculation surfaced 20 days after the breakup report. On July 28, 2021, in the show “Falling in Love with Korea – International Couples,” Hichul received advice from co-stars.
“Cut off your addiction (to games) before marriage.”
At that moment, Hichul revealed an incident where he lost love because of games.
Some fans interpreted this revelation to be related to Momo, considering the timing of the broadcast, post the breakup report.
Conclusion
Regardless, both have moved on to the next phase in their lives. Let’s continue supporting them in their future endeavors!
