Kim Jong-kook announces marriage with heartfelt handwritten letter to fans

South Korean singer, entertainer, and television personality Kim Jong-kook has officially announced his marriage. The beloved star, who turns 49 in 2025, shared the news on August 18 through a handwritten letter posted on his official fan cafe, marking a significant life milestone alongside his 30th debut anniversary in the entertainment industry.

A personal and heartfelt announcement

In the carefully written letter, Kim Jong-kook expressed both excitement and nervousness about this important moment in his life. He wrote,

"Hello. This is Kim Jong-kook.


I have always prepared in my heart for the day when I would write and post this kind of letter, but now that I am preparing this letter, I find myself more nervous and trembling than I had imagined.

I am posting this letter to let the fans who have believed in me, supported me, and always been by the side of human Kim Jong-kook know first.

I’m getting married.

Actually, I have been dropping hints little by little, but I think there will definitely be many who feel this is sudden.

This year marks my 30th anniversary since debut, and while I haven’t made the album I wanted, I’ve created my other half.

Please congratulate and support me. It’s a bit late, but how fortunate it is to be going this way, right? I will do my best to live well.

The wedding will be held quietly with family, relatives, and a few acquaintances on a scale that isn’t too large in the near future.

Thanks to the fans who have always been a great support for a long time, I am able to get married and take on a new challenge in life.

I will strive to be a hardworking and diligent Kim Jong-kook.

Thank you."

Career highlights and recent activities

Kim Jong-kook debuted in 1995 as part of the K-pop duo Turbo before launching a solo career in 2001. Over the years, he has become a household name not only for his music, but also for his appearances on popular variety shows such as 'Running Man' (2010–present) and 'My Little Old Boy' (2016–).

More recently, Kim has gained over 3 million subscribers on his successful YouTube fitness channel, 'Gym Jong Kook,' which reflects his lifelong dedication to exercise and health.

Earlier in 2025, Kim purchased a luxurious 243-square-meter (2,615-square-foot) apartment in the Apelbaum 2nd Complex in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam, Seoul, for 6.2 billion won (approximately $4.48 million USD). He had previously hinted during “My Little Old Boy” that this property would become his “newlywed house” once he got married.

Fans and industry react

The announcement has sparked widespread excitement among fans and fellow celebrities. Many praised Kim’s sincerity and wished him happiness as he enters this new chapter. His status as one of South Korea’s most beloved entertainers makes this news especially meaningful for his fanbase across Asia and beyond.