Song Joong-ki further opened up about his engagement to actress Song Hye-kyo in an interview with local media Monday.

“Married couples say they don’t feel it’s real until the wedding day,” he said.

“I think it’s similar (to what I’m feeling). This morning, someone walking by said congratulations. A lady at the sauna also congratulated me. I feel so grateful for fans and passersby who congratulate me with bright faces.”

Song Joong-ki said he had been the one to suggest to Song Hye-kyo that the couple announce their wedding plans.

“Honestly, it’s true that I thought it would be better to make the announcement after the film’s release,” he said, referring to his upcoming film “The Battleship Island,” which opens in local theaters Wednesday.

“There were many unfounded rumors about me and Hye-kyo, and there were times I was upset about that. That’s why I decided to reveal everything.”

The actor added he had been inspired by actors like Cha Tae-hyun. “I think he is the best man in Korea,” Song Joong-ki said of him, describing Cha as someone who was both devoted to family and work.

(doo@heraldcorp.com)