Kim Hyun-joong’s ex-girlfriend gives birth

Singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong’s ex-girlfriend gave birth to a child last week, according to local news outlets Thursday.

The legal battle between the two flared up in April when Kim’s ex-girlfriend, surnamed Choi, filed a suit seeking 1.6 billion won ($1.33 million) in damages for Kim’s alleged physical assault. She had also claimed that she was pregnant with Kim’s baby, but refused to hand over a medical certificate to prove her pregnancy.

The dispute, however, entered a new phase, as Choi gave birth.

“She gave birth to the child last week at a local hospital,” said Choi’s close friend on Thursday. “We cannot say the exact date of birth, as she wanted to avoid media exposure.”

A paternity test is reportedly scheduled soon. Kim, who began his mandatory military service in May, recently canceled his first leave without giving a reason.

By Ko Ji-seon (jiseonko@heraldcorp.com)