Chinese actress Yao Chen has admitted she is in a new relationship with cinematographer Cao Yu following her divorce with ex-husband and fellow actor Ling Xiaosu.

The star said she didn't want to conceal the truth and was just afraid of hurting people who are concerned about her, Netease.com reports.

Yao Chen was recently caught by the paparazzi's lens dining out together with Cao Yu at night and appeared to have very intimate relationship with the man.

Cao Yu has collaborated with director Lu Chuan in the 2004 film, "Kekexili: Mountain Patrol", and also on "City of Life and Death" ("Nanjing! Nanjing!") in 2009.

Yao and Ling split up in January this year, following problems arising in their marriage.

The actress developed a friendship with Cao Yu when shooting the 2010 romantic comedy, "Color Me Love" ("Ai Chu Se").

Yao and Ling married seven years ago and their marriage was believed to be strong.

After news of their divorce got out, Ling was rumored to have other women, which put their marriage on rocks.