Hyomin of T-ara and soccer player Hwang Ui Jo have chosen to go their separate ways.

The two were previously believed to be dating in early January, and they were also spotted together in Switzerland. Neither of them, however, issued an official remark in response to any of the dating news.

Hyomin's managing agent confirmed the couple's breakup on March 8. "We'd want to offer our stance on the dating news that was publicized in January," they said. They had good feelings for each other at the time, but owing to the pressures of the situation, they naturally drifted away, and they have now agreed to be friends who support each other."

"At the time, neither Hyomin nor Hwang Ui Jo had management agency, so no one could conduct official tasks," they said. "We appeal for your patience as they are unable to react to enquiries swiftly."

Hyomin made her debut with T-ara in 2009, and the group was well-received for their successful songs. T-ara's most recent album, "TIKI TAKA," was released last year in November. Meanwhile, Hwang Ui Jo began playing soccer in 2013 and has won numerous trophies, including Asian Games top goalscorer and Korean FA Player of the Year.