Lee Jae-hyun and Choi Hong-ra reunite? A complete recap of the reasons for their slump: dating rumors, Instagram unfollows, and breakups!

The dating rumors between Samsung Lions infielder Lee Jae-hyun and Lotte Giants cheerleader Choi Hong-ra are once again a hot topic. Since their first date was spotted in 2023, rumors of a breakup and reunion have alternated, and a recent sighting of them at a barbecue restaurant has once again stirred up online communities. With fan reactions and controversy surrounding Lee Jae-hyun's performance, the issue is growing. We'll summarize the current situation.

1. When did Lee Jae-hyun and Choi Hong-ra first start dating?

In October 2023, a photo of the two affectionately linking arms at Gyeongju World was posted online, sparking the first dating rumors. The individuals in the photo were believed to be Samsung shortstop Lee Jae-hyun and then-Samsung cheerleader Choi Hong-ra, and the news quickly spread among fans.

Subsequently, similar posts on social media, mutual followings, and cheering schedules overlapped, leading to reactions like, "Although no official announcement has been made, they appear to be dating." However, both parties remained silent, neither confirming nor denying the dating rumors.

2. Breakup rumors, and then reunion?

In 2024, Choi Hong-ra left the Samsung Lions and joined the Lotte Giants, sparking rumors among fans that they had broken up. Furthermore, their unfollowing and deleting traces of their relationship on Instagram were interpreted as evidence of a breakup.

But in August 2025, the atmosphere changed dramatically when a "meat restaurant date sighting" surfaced on an online community. A fan-taken photo showed a man, presumed to be Lee Jae-hyun, casually dining with Choi Hong-ra, reigniting dating rumors. Some fans saw this as a "reunion," while others suggested they "never broke up in the first place."

3. What are the profiles of Lee Jae-hyun and Choi Hong-ra?

Choi Hong-ra is a popular cheerleader who has been active in various sports, having played for teams such as Ulsan Hyundai Mobis, Pohang Steelers, and Cheongju KB Stars. Lee Jae-hyun is a promising infielder for Samsung, and has been the starting shortstop until recently. The couple's five-year age gap has also drawn attention.

4. Is Lee Jae-hyun's slump due to dating rumors?

In 2025, Lee Jae-hyun suffered a severe batting slump after May. His stats of just one hit in 16 at-bats over five games were certainly below expectations. Fans pointed out that the timing coincided with dating rumors, and the possibility of psychological impact was also mentioned.
But dating isn't necessarily a bad thing. Recently, home runs and RBIs have been on the rise, and his performance is showing signs of recovery.

5. What are the fans' reactions?

The fan community is currently practically accepting their relationship. Comments like, "They look great together," "As long as they're good at baseball, it's okay for them to date," and "Now there will be marriage rumors."

On the other hand, some argue, "Dating is free, but if your performance declines, you're bound to be criticized." Lee Jae-hyun's fandom, in particular, maintains that "performance is more important than dating right now," and is focused more on the athlete's own performance recovery.

Q&A

Q. Are you two an official couple?

A. There is no official position, but based on repeated eyewitness accounts and circumstances, it is virtually acknowledged.

Q. Is it true that you broke up in the past?

A. There was no clear position, and many fans claimed that “they never broke up.”

Q. Could your relationship have contributed to your slump?

A. It is not possible to be certain, but it is a situation that is suspected as it overlaps in time.

Q. What is the atmosphere like among the fans?

A. There is a lot of support and positive feedback, and the atmosphere is one where recovery of performance is given priority.

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