(Online community)

Singer IU and actor Kang Ha-neul both denied rumors that they are dating.

It was revealed that Kang and IU had met at a coffee shop in Itaewon-dong in Seoul on Sunday. Those who worked at the coffee shop had shared a photo they took with the celebrities via the cafe’s Instagram account on the same day.

IU and Kang had become close friends after co-starring in SBS’ “Scarlet Heart: Ryeo” last year. Kang began his mandatory military service Monday. The 27-year-old entered a basic training camp in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province.

There was speculation that IU and Kang had been enjoying their last date before Kang’s military enlistment. However, Kang’s agency denied the rumor Sunday.

“It is true that he met IU at the coffee shop, but they are not in a relationship. They are just good friends who worked together on the drama,” said the agency. IU’s agency also denied the rumor.

Kang recently starred in the films “New Trial,” “Midnight Runners” and “Recall the Night.” IU is set to release a new album, “A Flower Bookmark Two,” later this month.

(lotus@heraldcorp.com)