Hani EXID Returns to Acting in "Love On The Menu" Amidst Personal Turmoil Following Fiancé’s Malpractice Scandal
Hani EXID, the charismatic vocalist of the K-pop group EXID, has made a significant return to the acting scene with her role in the upcoming Korean drama "Love On The Menu." This marks her first public appearance and acting comeback in two years, a period overshadowed by a highly publicized malpractice case involving her fiancé, psychiatrist Yang Jae Woong. The actress-turned-idol addressed the situation for the first time at a press conference for the drama, offering a candid yet carefully worded perspective on the challenges she has faced.
A Tumultuous Two-Year Hiatus
Hani EXID’s hiatus from the public eye began shortly after her engagement to Yang Jae Woong, a prominent psychiatrist and owner of a well-regarded mental health institution. Yang Jae Woong, known for his frequent appearances on television where he often provides expert commentary on mental health issues, seemed a stable and public figure. However, their engagement coincided with a grave accusation leveled against his professional practice.
In July 2024, news broke that a patient had allegedly died due to malpractice at Yang Jae Woong’s hospital. South Korean broadcaster SBS reported on the incident, detailing the tragic loss of a woman’s life under circumstances that raised serious questions about the medical care provided. This development sent shockwaves through the public and immediately cast a shadow over Hani EXID’s personal life and upcoming wedding plans.
The allegations of malpractice were not confined to the medical and legal spheres; they swiftly spilled over into the public consciousness. Hani EXID, as Yang Jae Woong’s fiancée, found herself the target of intense scrutiny and negative commentary on social media platforms, particularly her Instagram account. Many netizens urged her to reconsider her impending marriage, questioning her judgment and expressing concern over the potential implications of being associated with such a serious legal and ethical breach.
Wedding Postponement and Legal Ramifications
The scandal directly impacted the couple’s wedding plans. Their union, initially slated for September 2024, was consequently postponed indefinitely. The gravity of the situation escalated as the medical team at Yang Jae Woong’s hospital faced formal charges. The accusations included professional negligence, which was alleged to have directly led to the patient’s death. In the wake of these serious charges and the ensuing investigation, Yang Jae Woong’s hospital was officially and permanently closed. This closure represented a significant blow to his professional career and reputation.
A Measured Return and Public Apology
It was not until Wednesday, July 22, 2026, that Hani EXID publicly reappeared. Her presence at the press conference for "Love On The Menu," alongside the drama’s director and fellow cast members, signaled her intention to resume her career. This event also provided her with the first opportunity to directly address the period of absence and the personal turmoil that had defined it.
During the press conference, Hani EXID began by offering an apology for "causing concern to many people" due to the circumstances surrounding her fiancé’s case. Her demeanor was one of careful consideration, acutely aware of the sensitive nature of the situation and the potential for her words to impact the drama’s reception. She expressed a strong desire not to detract from the hard work of the entire "Love On The Menu" team, which was slated for a premiere on July 27, 2026.
"Honestly, I also feel regretful discussing my personal life at an event like this," Hani EXID stated. "Many people poured their hearts into making this drama, and my greatest hope is not to cause any damage to this production. I ask for your understanding regarding questions I cannot answer in detail." This statement underscored her commitment to her professional obligations while acknowledging the sensitive personal issues at play.
Embracing a New Role Amidst Personal Challenges
Despite the immense personal pressure she had endured, Hani EXID expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to the screen. She is set to portray Han Gyu Rim in "Love On The Menu," a character described as the backbone of her family and a vendor selling side dishes at a market. This role appears to be a departure from some of her previous, perhaps more glamorous, portrayals, offering a grounded and relatable character.
To fully embody Han Gyu Rim, Hani EXID revealed that she dedicated time to learning culinary skills. This preparation reflects her commitment to authenticity and her desire to bring depth to her character. Fans can anticipate witnessing her chemistry with co-star Ha Seok Jin, who plays Kim Mu Jin, a chef and owner of an Italian restaurant. Their characters are portrayed as former lovers who separated due to social status differences but are destined to reconnect. This narrative arc of overcoming obstacles and finding renewed connection may resonate with Hani EXID’s own recent experiences.
The drama "Love On The Menu" is scheduled to air every Saturday and Sunday at 7:55 PM KST on KBS2 and will also be available on the streaming platform Viu. The series promises a blend of romance and everyday life, with the backdrop of food and culinary endeavors serving as a central theme.
Background Context and Broader Implications
The malpractice case involving Yang Jae Woong is not an isolated incident in the medical community. Such cases often highlight the complex interplay between professional ethics, patient safety, and the reputation of associated individuals. In South Korea, medical malpractice lawsuits can be protracted and emotionally charged, with significant legal and public consequences. The closure of a hospital and the filing of charges against medical professionals are indicative of the severity of the allegations.
The public reaction to Hani EXID’s situation also reflects broader societal attitudes towards public figures and their personal lives. When individuals in the public eye face scandals, particularly those involving their partners, the scrutiny can be intense, often leading to a blurring of lines between personal and professional spheres. The pressure to maintain a certain image can be immense, and the fallout from a partner’s professional misconduct can directly affect an individual’s career prospects and public perception.
Hani EXID’s decision to return to acting, while navigating these challenges, demonstrates resilience and a dedication to her craft. Her careful approach to public statements suggests a strategic effort to manage public perception and protect the integrity of her professional projects. The success of "Love On The Menu" may, in part, depend on the audience’s ability to separate the actress from the personal controversies surrounding her.
Furthermore, the legal proceedings against Yang Jae Woong and his former hospital will likely continue to unfold. The outcome of these legal battles could have long-term implications for his career and potentially for Hani EXID, depending on the nature of any future developments. The media’s role in reporting such cases is crucial, requiring a balance between informing the public and avoiding sensationalism or prejudgment.
The Path Forward
Hani EXID’s comeback in "Love On The Menu" represents a significant moment in her career. It signifies a desire to move forward and reclaim her professional identity after a challenging period. Her measured response at the press conference suggests a mature understanding of the complexities she faces. As the drama premieres, audiences will have the opportunity to engage with her performance and, by extension, offer their support for her return to the entertainment industry. The narrative of "Love On The Menu" itself, with its themes of rekindled romance and overcoming adversity, may offer a subtle parallel to Hani EXID’s own journey of resilience and recovery. The public’s reception of her performance will undoubtedly be closely watched, offering insight into the enduring connection between artists and their fans, even in the face of personal tribulations. The coming weeks will reveal how Hani EXID’s return is perceived and whether "Love On The Menu" can provide a successful platform for her renewed artistic endeavors.
