IU Sparks Debate After Using Ex Chang Kiha’s Song in Instagram Post

August 7, 2026

IU‘s latest social media update is drawing more attention for its background music than its photos.

On August 6th, the singer and actress shared a series of candid snapshots with short captions including, “Hi, it’s been a while,” “Keeping busy” and “A very belated birthday meal.” The photos showed her relaxing in bed, spending time on set, eating and taking a selfie in a car.

What caught fans’ attention, however, was the song featured in the post captioned “Keeping busy”: “Living the Carefree Life” by Kiha & The Faces.

IU and Chang Kiha began dating after meeting in 2013, publicly confirmed their relationship in 2015 and announced their breakup in 2017. Given how much time has passed, some viewed the choice as nothing more than an appreciation of the song.

Others questioned the timing, as Chang Kiha is currently in a public relationship with actress Yoon Gai, while IU’s breakup with actor Lee Jong Suk was recently reported.

Some online users criticized the choice, writing, “She must know Chang Kiha is dating someone now,” “It’s strange. Doesn’t seem like a normal thing to do,” “Why did it have to be his song?” and “His current girlfriend probably wouldn’t like it.”

Others cautioned against reading too much into it, noting that IU just likes the song. Comments included, “Come on, it’s just a song,” “Is she never allowed to listen to an ex’s music again?” and “People are reading way too much into this.”

Only IU knows what prompted the selection, but the unexpected musical reference has fueled debate online amid recent reports about both stars’ personal lives.

Chang Kiha recently confirmed that he is dating Yoon Gai, who is 18 years his junior. IU, meanwhile, was reported last month to have ended her relationship with Lee Jong Suk. She is currently focusing on her recovery after symptoms of patulous Eustachian tube dysfunction worsened, leading her to postpone scheduled concerts and the release of her sixth studio album.