The intersection of K-pop stardom and K-drama prestige often creates a whirlwind of public scrutiny, but for actor On Ju Wan and Girl’s Day member Minah, the road to the altar was surprisingly quiet. In a recent appearance on the MBN variety show Moo No Plan, the actor opened up about the intimate details of their relationship, revealing how he won over his K-pop idol wife 10 years younger through a combination of shared professional passion and a well-timed confession.
The couple, who recently transitioned from long-term partners to newlyweds, spent five years dating before tying the knot. While many high-profile celebrity couples in South Korea opt for strict secrecy to avoid the pressures of “dispatch-style” reporting, On Ju Wan admitted that they were far less cautious. He shared that the pair frequently appeared in public holding hands, yet they remained largely under the radar of the tabloid press.
This lack of media attention became a point of humor during the April 10, 2026, episode of Moo No Plan Season 3. While chatting with hosts Jun Hyun Moo and Kwak Tube during a food trip, On Ju Wan joked about the couple’s perceived invisibility to the paparazzi. When Jun Hyun Moo noted that he often faces dating rumors even when single, On Ju Wan laughed, noting that he and Minah had once concluded that perhaps the world simply wasn’t that interested in them.
From Screen Chemistry to Stage Romance
The foundation of their relationship was laid nearly a decade ago. The pair first crossed paths in 2016 while filming the K-drama Beautiful Gong Shim. While the show introduced them, the romantic spark didn’t ignite immediately; instead, it took a shift in their professional trajectories to bring them closer.
As On Ju Wan expanded his repertoire into musical theater, Minah expressed a parallel interest in the medium. After successfully auditioning for a production, she joined the cast of a musical where On Ju Wan was already established. The dynamics of the production provided the perfect environment for their bond to deepen, as the plot cast the actor in a role where he was tasked with protecting Minah’s character.
The rigorous demands of musical theater—which often involve grueling rehearsal schedules—served as a catalyst for their romance. On Ju Wan recalled that the couple spent up to 10 hours a day practicing together. This extended proximity allowed him to support her as she navigated the steep learning curve of live stage performance, transforming a professional mentorship into a personal connection.
The Practice Room Confession
Despite the 10-year age difference, which can sometimes be a point of contention in the public eye or within traditional family structures, the couple found a natural rhythm. On Ju Wan eventually decided to move beyond the “protective” role of their stage characters and make his feelings known in real life.
The confession happened in a manner that mirrored the simplicity of their relationship. While the rest of the cast was occupied with rehearsals in the practice room, On Ju Wan took a moment of quiet to tell Minah, “Minah-ya, I think I like you.” This candid admission marked the beginning of a five-year journey that culminated in their recent wedding.
Timeline of the Relationship
| Period | Event | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Initial Meeting | Co-starred in the drama Beautiful Gong Shim |
| Post-2016 | Musical Collaboration | Worked together in a musical production; practiced 10 hours/day |
| The Confession | Official Dating | On Ju Wan confessed his feelings in the rehearsal room |
| 5-Year Span | Private Dating | Dated openly in public but avoided media coverage |
| 2026 | Marriage | Officially wed as newlyweds |
Navigating the Spotlight and Age Gaps
For fans of Girl’s Day, the news of Minah’s marriage represents a latest chapter for the legendary idol. The transition from the high-energy world of K-pop to a stable partnership with an established actor highlights a growing trend among second-generation idols who are now prioritizing personal fulfillment and long-term stability over the rigid constraints of their early careers.
The couple’s ability to maintain a five-year relationship without the interference of “dating scandals” is a rarity in the Hallyu industry. On Ju Wan’s reflection that they were “openly affectionate” yet ignored by the press suggests a level of authenticity and lack of pretension that likely helped them overcome the societal hurdles associated with their age gap.
By focusing on their shared love for the performing arts—first through television and then through the demanding discipline of musical theater—they built a foundation based on mutual professional respect before transitioning into a romantic partnership.
As they enter married life, the couple continues to share glimpses of their journey, including a luxurious wedding ceremony that has captured the attention of followers across Asia. While they have enjoyed a period of relative anonymity, their recent appearance on Moo No Plan suggests a willingness to share their story on their own terms.
The couple is expected to continue their respective careers in acting and music, with further updates on their joint projects likely to emerge as they settle into their new life together. For now, they remain focused on their transition into married life, far removed from the chaotic rumors that often plague celebrity unions.
What do you think about the couple’s “invisible” dating phase? Share your thoughts in the comments below and follow for more updates on your favorite Hallyu stars.
