Lee Chae-rin, globally renowned as CL, has carved an indelible mark in the K-pop industry as a trailblazing artist, known for her fierce persona and undeniable talent. Despite her highly public career and charismatic presence, CL has maintained a remarkably private romantic life, often leaving fans and media to speculate about her relationships. Unlike many public figures who share glimpses of their personal lives, CL has consistently kept her romantic endeavors out of the spotlight, leading to a history largely defined by unconfirmed rumors and fan theories.
Throughout her career, CL has rarely, if ever, publicly confirmed a romantic relationship, a stance that aligns with the often-strict privacy expectations placed upon K-pop idols. This dedication to privacy has meant that details about her dating history are scarce, with most public discussions revolving around speculation rather than official announcements. She has, however, occasionally spoken about her ideal type, describing a preference for someone "who is in his own world" and possesses strong individuality, even if others might perceive them as unconventional.
One of the most prominent and persistent dating rumors involving CL emerged around British model Ash Stymest. The speculation first gained traction in 2014 when Stymest appeared in 2NE1's music video for "Gotta Be You," where he and CL shared notable on-screen chemistry. Their continued friendship and public appearances together fueled the rumors, suggesting a connection beyond professional collaboration.
Further intensifying the speculation was the revelation that Ash Stymest reportedly had CL's Korean birth name, Lee Chae-rin, tattooed on his wrist. This highly personal gesture was widely interpreted by fans as strong evidence of a romantic relationship. While neither CL nor Stymest ever officially confirmed their dating status, a friend of Stymest reportedly corroborated the rumors on social media, stating that the two had indeed dated in the past. However, Stymest was later linked to and publicly dated Lily-Rose Depp, which suggested that his alleged relationship with CL, if it existed, was either brief or never officially progressed beyond a private connection.
More recently, CL's name became romantically linked with DPR Ian, also known as Christian Yu, a Korean-Australian singer, director, and former K-pop idol. The rumors gained significant momentum in late 2020 and 2021 following their highly anticipated collaborations. DPR Ian starred as CL's love interest in her music video for "5 Star," and they later collaborated on the track "No Blueberries," further showcasing their undeniable on-screen chemistry.
Their interactions, both in music videos and during joint performances, such as at the Head In The Clouds festival, captivated fans, who affectionately dubbed them "CLIAN." The palpable connection between them led many to believe that their professional relationship had blossomed into something more personal. Despite the widespread fan desire for a romantic pairing, both CL and DPR Ian have consistently maintained a professional front, never confirming any romantic involvement. Their continued collaborations are seen as a testament to their artistic synergy rather than a public declaration of a relationship.
As of recent reports, CL is widely considered to be single, with her primary focus remaining on her music career and artistic endeavors. Her journey through the public eye has been marked by a deliberate choice to keep her private life, especially her romantic relationships, away from media scrutiny. This approach allows her to maintain a sense of mystique while her powerful artistry continues to speak for itself.
In conclusion, CL's romantic history is largely a narrative of unconfirmed rumors and intense fan speculation, rather than publicly declared partnerships. From the intriguing connection with Ash Stymest to the captivating chemistry with DPR Ian, her love life remains one of the most private aspects of her public persona. CL's dedication to her craft and her guarded personal space underscore her unique position as an artist who commands attention without revealing every detail of her heart.