Chinese actor Hou Minghao has found himself at the center of dating speculation after rumors spread online claiming he had been in a three-year relationship with actress and former THE9 member Kong Xue’er. The gossip gained traction shortly after the broadcast of his latest costume drama Yu Ming Tea Bones, prompting both stars to issue swift and emphatic denials in the early hours of February 9.
The 28-year-old actor, who has recently been heavily promoted by renowned producer Yu Zheng, took to Weibo to shut down the claims with a concise statement: “*Fake!!” Kong Xue’er followed almost immediately with an even more emphatic response of her own, posting “Fake!!!!!!*”—a total of six exclamation marks that many netizens interpreted as a sign of urgency and frustration.
The rumors alleged that Hou Minghao and Kong Xue’er, who is one year his senior, had been quietly dating for three years. Online speculation was fueled by so-called “evidence” pointing to similarities in their social media posts. Fans claimed that when Hou Minghao shared images of himself wearing masks for a role, Kong Xue’er coincidentally posted photos featuring masks as well. Another claim noted that after Kong Xue’er uploaded childhood photos of herself riding a motorcycle, Hou Minghao later obtained a motorcycle license.
However, many netizens remained unconvinced, noting that the connections appeared tenuous at best. Following the actors’ immediate denials, public opinion largely shifted toward skepticism about the original claims, with commenters pointing out that the alleged overlaps could easily be coincidental.
Kong Xue’er rose to fame through an idol survival program and placed eighth on Youth With You Season 2, earning her spot in the temporary girl group THE9. In recent years, she has transitioned steadily into acting, appearing in high-profile dramas such as Mo Yu Yun Jian, The Legend of Zhe Yao, and Jin Yue Ru Ge. Her portrayal of the scheming character Zheng Chu Yu in The Legend of Zhe Yao sparked considerable discussion among viewers.
Meanwhile, Hou Minghao has built a strong reputation as a costume drama specialist, with notable works including Into the Clouds and Huai Shui Bamboo Pavilion. His starring role in Yu Ming Tea Bones has drawn particular attention, with some viewers dubbing him the “male version of Wei Yingluo,” the iconic heroine from Story of Yanxi Palace.
As of now, both parties have made their positions clear, leaving little room for further speculation. With firm denials issued and no concrete evidence to support the claims, the rumored romance appears to have been put to rest almost as quickly as it emerged.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
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