Are Kim Dong Kyu and Rio Yamashita still together? ‘Love Like a K-Drama’ star uncertain about their future

Despite choosing Rio Yamashita over Nozomi Bando, Kim Dong Kyu remains uncertain about their future, adding a layer of doubt to their relationship
PUBLISHED DEC 26, 2023
Kim Dong Kyu opens up about relationship uncertainties, expressing concern over Rio Yamashita's career-focused priorities, casting shadows on their future together (Netflix)
Kim Dong Kyu opens up about relationship uncertainties, expressing concern over Rio Yamashita's career-focused priorities, casting shadows on their future together (Netflix)

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: As the final episode of 'Love Like A K Drama' approaches, Kim Dong Kyu engaged in a candid conversation with fellow Korean actors, sharing his uncertainties about his future with Rio Yamashita. 

The men discussed the imminent conclusion of the show and the impending return to their normal lives. Aware that a final real kiss with one chosen connection awaited them, they pondered the significance of this last decision.

Amid this discussion, Dong Kyu expressed his concerns about the dynamics with Rio. He revealed that he was unsure about their future, emphasizing how Rio had always prioritized her career, displaying a strong commitment to her professional life.

Dong Kyu feared that once Rio returned to Japan, she might revert to her previous career-oriented self, potentially affecting their relationship.

"I tried my best to try and change that about her," Dong Kyu said. "I thought I was doing a good job, but I think she'll go back to her old self when she gets back home," he added.

Rio Yamashita shares she’s not good at balancing ‘love and career’

Tae gyun speaks in Japanese for Rio (Netflix/ Love Like A K Drama)
Rio Yamashita finds it difficult to manage love and career  (Netflix/Love Like A K Drama)

Rio Yamashita, hailing from Tokushima, Japan, and the most senior and accomplished actress among the participants, openly shared her lifelong commitment to her career.

In previous discussions, she had acknowledged her struggle in balancing love and professional ambitions, confessing that she had always given priority to her work. Rio was straightforward about never actively pursuing anyone in her life, emphasizing that her career held a paramount place in her heart.

Her journey into the entertainment industry began after applying to a talent agency, and she eventually ventured into modeling in 2007.

Rio's breakthrough came with her first major role in 'Love Letter' in 2008, marking the inception of a prolific career. Over the years, she had taken on significant roles in at least 15 projects, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Kim Dong Kyu writes an emotional letter for Rio Yamashita

'Love Like a K-Drama' stars Rio Yamashita and Kim Dong Kyu (Netflix)
'Love Like a K-Drama' stars Rio Yamashita and Kim Dong Kyu (Netflix)

In the final episode, Kim Dong Kyu penned a heartfelt letter to Rio in Japanese, pouring out his feelings. He expressed how Rio had managed to make his heart feel larger, and the echoes of her laughter would linger in his memories for an extended period.

Dong Kyu, with genuine admiration, referred to Rio as a lovely and beautiful woman in his letter.

In this touching message, he revealed that the purpose behind writing the letter was to ensure that a part of him accompanied Rio back to Japan. It was a sincere gesture, an attempt to create a lasting connection with Rio, with whom he had shared many precious moments in the show. 

Kim Dong Kyu calls pairing with Rio Yamashita the ‘best couple’ of the show

'Love Like a K-Drama' stars Kim Dong Kyu and Rio Yamashita (Netflix)
'Love Like a K-Drama' stars Kim Dong Kyu and Rio Yamashita (Netflix)

In the final moments of the show, Kim Dong Kyu mustered the courage to ask Rio if she would be willing to meet him if he ever visited Japan, to which she readily agreed, her eyes reflecting a genuine warmth.

As they stood on the verge of parting ways, Dong Kyu expressed heartfelt gr

atitude, thanking Rio for the precious memories they had created together. He assured her that he would always 'root' for her from afar.

With a tender kiss, Dong Kyu couldn't help but share his sentiments with Rio.

In a whisper, he conveyed his belief that they were the best couple on the show, a sentiment deeply rooted in his heart. As he bid her a final goodbye, he shared his love for her and said that he'd be missing her. 

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