In the glamorous world of Philippine showbiz, where relationships often play out under the watchful eyes of fans and media, one love story has captured the hearts of many – the romantic journey of Kim Chiu and Xian Lim.

From the early days of their careers to their blossoming romance, this couple has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for fans who believe in true love.

Kim Chiu and Xian Lim stand out as one of the most enduring reel-to-real-life couples of the past decade. We’ve observed their love blossom from a highly private dating phase to their current status as one of the most celebrated Instagram couples to date.

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore the enchanting love story timeline of Kim Chiu and Xian Lim.

2011 – My Binondo Girl: The Beginning
Photo courtesy: ABS-CBN
Kim Chiu and Xian Lim first crossed paths on the set of the hit television series “My Binondo Girl” in 2011, a teleserye in ABS-CBN. Kim, already an established actress, and Xian, a relative newcomer to the industry, shared on-screen chemistry that quickly translated into off-screen camaraderie. The sparks were evident, and fans couldn’t help but speculate about the possibility of a real-life romance.

2012 – Ina, Kapatid, Anak

Following their initial triumph in a romantic comedy as a love team, the duo made a transition to the small screen, starring in the melodramatic series “Ina, Kapatid, Anak” alongside Enchong Dee and Maja Salvador.

In 2010, Kim went through one of the most talked-about breakups, ending her relationship with Gerald due to his infidelity, as she publicly disclosed.

Following the painful split, fans were curious about when she would be ready to embrace love once more. Kim acknowledged her openness to a new romantic chapter but expressed a preference for taking things slowly.

2013- First Movie Together “Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo?”
Photo courtesy: Amazon
Due to the triumph of their on-screen partnership, it didn’t take much time after their debut for them to be entrusted with their inaugural major film project. In 2013, Kim and Xian took the lead roles in the romantic comedy movie “Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo?” alongside Kean Cipriano.

2014-2015- Bride For Rent/Already a Couple
Photo courtesy: Netflix
One year following their initial movie collaboration, Kim and Xian teamed up for a film titled “Bride for Rent.” In 2015, they shared the screen with the Philippines’ Queen of Comedy, Ai Ai Delas Alas, in the movie “Past Tense.”

2016- Must Date The Playboy/The Story of Us
Photo courtesy: ABS-CBN

Kim and Xian took on roles in an internet-based TV series titled “Must Date The Playboy,” co-starring with Jessy Mendiola. Subsequently, another romantic series, titled “The Story of Us,” was produced for KimXi.

During this period, persistent rumors circulated about the two being a couple. In October 2015, Kim acknowledged that she hadn’t officially defined her relationship with Xian. During that time, Kim was content with the understanding that both of them were happy.

2017-2018- Travel Together

Photo courtesy: Instagram/Xian Lim
Xian shared affectionate pictures from a trip abroad with Kim, showcasing them in intimate poses in the snow and joyfully experiencing a rollercoaster ride. One photo suggested that the snapshots were taken in 2017, possibly during a holiday break in December of that year.

In 2018, Kim and Xian had been observed sharing affectionate photos online, leading fans to speculate that their connection went beyond being a mere on-screen duo.

In January of that year, Xian openly expressed his genuine love for Kim. Nevertheless, he clarified that they were not officially in a relationship at that point.

Due to their collaboration on numerous projects over the last five years, Kim and Xian were frequently seen together on various occasions.

However, despite their love team’s inception in 2011, the official status of their relationship remained undefined until 2018.

In a November 2018 interview with TV personality Boy Abunda, Kim officially acknowledged that they were in a relationship.

2019- Private, Private, Private
Photo courtesy: Instagram/Xian Lim
Two months after Kim disclosed their relationship, Xian discussed their connection in an interview with Tito Boy. Inquiring about any challenges in publicly acknowledging their relationship, the seasoned TV personality raised the point that the couple had been dating since 2012 but only confirmed it in 2018.

Xian responded, emphasizing their desire for authenticity in their relationship, even as public figures.

2020- Love Thy Woman: The First Teleserye after making their relationship public
Photo courtesy: ABS-CBN

In February 2020, Kim and Xian took the lead roles in “Love Thy Woman” alongside Yam Concepcion, Eula Valdez, and Christopher De Leon.

2021- End of an Era: Xian jumped to GMA Network
Photo courtesy: GMA Network
In August 2021, Xian made a significant career move by breaking away from his decade-long partnership with Kim. Opting to advance his acting career, the actor shifted to GMA, finding it challenging to thrive in his previous network, ABS-CBN.

The latter confronted various crises, including non-franchise renewal and the impact of lockdowns. Despite being affiliated with rival networks, Kim has consistently shown strong support for her partner.

2022- No Pressure To Tie The Knot
Photo courtesy: Instagram/Xian Lim
Xian was asked again when he plans to marry Kim. He said they’re not in a hurry because they both agreed that as long as they love each other, that’s what matters most to both of them. Despite originating from distinct television networks, Kim and Xian spearheaded their return to the big screen with the movie “Always.”

Several months after Xian made comments about marriage, Kim was similarly asked about her perspective on starting a family with her beau. Despite discussions about marriage, the actress stated that the timing isn’t right just yet. In December 2022, the pair experienced the winter season in Paris, France.

2023- Break-up Rumors
Photo courtesy: Instagram/Xian Lim
Kim posted her birthday greeting for Xian on her Instagram post last July 2023. “Happy Birthday to the person who holds my (heart). Thank you for being you and always putting a smile on my face,” the actress said.

In November, rumors resurfaced, suggesting that the two had once again parted ways this year, but Kim quickly addressed the issue. She said that everything is okay with them. They were both busy with their projects: Xian had a successful series “Hearts on Ice” while Kim received praises in her performance as an unfaithful wife on “Linlang” paired by Paulo Avelino.

The second series of Xian in the Kapuso Network “Love. Die. Repeat” with Jennylyn  Mercado is set to be aired in 2024. Kim, after the success of Linlang, is set to star in the Philippine adaptation of South Korean hit romantic-comedy series “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” alongside Paulo Avelino again.

But the speculation that they have truly separated is growing stronger. Xian even posted a statement on his Instagram, but he did not mention anything about the status of his relationship with Kim. In under a month from her initial statement, Kim addressed another set of questions regarding their alleged breakup. On this occasion, she requested some privacy.

Grabe, sa amin na lang muna yon. We’ll just keep it to ourselves na muna,” she said. The showbiz insider, Ogie Diaz, discussed the relationship of Xian and Kim on his showbiz-oriented vlog. Ogie even left a question about a woman named “Iris Lee” who is being linked to Xian.

Kim’s body language becomes noticeable whenever she is teased by the Unkabogable Star Vice Ganda during their hosting engagements on the noontime show “It’s Showtime,” especially when their discussions involve matters of love.

On December 12, 2023, Xian removed vlogs featuring Kim from his YouTube channel. Observant internet users noted this change, leading to increased speculation about their alleged breakup. Xian and Kim trended on X, as the action of Xian was perceived as “subtle confirmation” of the break-up.

During It’s Showtime, Kim received a hug and compliment from Vice Ganda.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot from YouTube channel of Maricel Soriano/via Balita
December 17, 2023, Kim characterized her romantic life as “naka-hang.” Kim explicitly addressed the present state of her love life during a vlog with Maricel Soriano. The Diamond Star asked Kim “Kumusta raw ang love life mo? Tinatanong nila love life mo, eh. Hindi naman ako makasagot ‘day, dahil hindi naman ako ikaw.”

“Ang love life ko ay naka-hang ngayon,” she answered. “Parang telepono,” Maricel clarified.

Conclusion
Photo courtesy: Instagram/Xian Lim
Kim Chiu and Xian Lim’s love story timeline is a tale of romance, perseverance, and unwavering commitment. From their on-screen chemistry to their real-life enchanting moments, this couple has become a beacon of hope for fans who believe in the magic of love.

As they continue to navigate the challenges and triumphs of life together, Kim and Xian inspire others with their enduring and genuine connection. Their love story is not just confined to the screens; it’s a beautiful narrative that reminds us all that love, when nurtured with sincerity and dedication, can withstand the tests of time.