Song Hye Kyo's continuous absence in South Korean television and her lack of public appearance despite her husband attending several awards shows are sparking rumors that she is carrying her first child.

When Joong Ki made his first public appearance at the 2017 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) in Hong Kong since getting married, he was expected to arrive with his new wife. But he came alone, with a vague reason that Hye Kyo opted to stay in Seoul.

Before 2017 ended, Joong Ki won the Daesang, or the Grand Prize, at the KBS Drama Awards. It was one of the most prestigious honors a Korean celebrity could receive. Joong Ki then made a loving message to his wife that had fans gushing.

"I've met my lifelong partner that I love so much, and so I think I will never forget 2017 in all my life. I'm not sure how to express how happy I am in words," he said in Korean.

He explained that his wife was not able to attend due to another commitment, but "she is doing well."

More recently, Laneige announced that it was launching a new ambassador, Kim Yoo Jung, as Hye Kyo moves to another brand, Sulwhasoo.

All put together, fans are wondering if all these are pointing to one reason -- Hye Kyo is carrying her first child.

No such news has appeared in any Korean media just yet, and for many, it is more of hopeful thinking than an accurate prediction.

Still, fans could not help but go back to this interview with Hye Kyo back in 2008, where she was asked where she wants to be 10 years from then.

She said, "After 10 years, I hope I would be a mom whom my children will not be afraid of."

Could this prediction be right? Could 2018 be the year Hye Kyo becomes a mom? The couple has yet to confirm or deny the rumors.