In recent days, South Korea’s entertainment industry has been buzzing with news that actress Kim Min Hee and director Hong Sang Soo are expecting their first child. This development is particularly noteworthy given the couple’s nearly decade-long relationship amidst public criticism.
Actress Kim Min Hee (43) and director Hong Sang Soo (65) are preparing to become parents (Photo: Sina).
A Fateful Encounter
Kim Min Hee and director Hong Sang Soo first met in 2015 on the set of Right Now, Wrong Then. At the time, the actress, born in 1982, was 22 years younger than the director. Their relationship blossomed into love despite societal and public disapproval.
Two years later, they publicly acknowledged their relationship, sparking intense criticism. According to the director’s wife and daughter, Kim Min Hee was seen as the “third party” who disrupted his decades-long marriage. Despite family and public pressure, director Hong decided to file for divorce to be with his muse. However, the divorce proceedings have not been finalized due to his wife’s refusal, adding complexity to the situation.
Becoming Parents at Age 65
After nearly a decade together, Kim Min Hee and director Hong Sang Soo are about to welcome their first child. This news has quickly become a hot topic in South Korean media. Notably, the director’s decision to become a father at age 65 has drawn significant attention.
According to sources, the couple is currently in South Korea and actively preparing for the baby’s arrival this spring. Dispatch captured photos of director Hong accompanying Kim Min Hee to her prenatal checkups, demonstrating their commitment to parenthood.
Director Hong Sang Soo accompanied Kim Min Hee to her prenatal checkup in January (Photo: Dispatch).
However, this information has also sparked controversy. A South Korean YouTuber revealed that the director has almost cut ties with his daughter in recent years, not attending her wedding or sending any congratulations. This revelation has further fueled public criticism.
Kim Min Hee’s Sacrifices
Kim Min Hee is a renowned star in South Korea, recognized for her talents in films such as Hellcats, Actresses, Helpless, The Handmaiden… However, since the scandal broke, she has faced strong boycotts and largely withdrawn from the local entertainment scene.
Currently, Kim Min Hee primarily works on projects directed by her partner, including After That, Riverside Hotel, The Woman Who Ran, Our Day, A Traveller’s Need, and Suyucheon. Last August, she won the Best Actress award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival for her role in Suyucheon.
Kim Min Hee and director Hong live together in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province, but are not married (Photo: Newsen).
Despite the criticism, Kim Min Hee remains silent, choosing to focus on her work and personal life without regard for the gossip surrounding them.
Conclusion
The love story between director Hong Sang Soo and Kim Min Hee is filled with controversy but also showcases unwavering dedication and sacrifice. Despite numerous challenges, both have remained committed to building their own happiness. Welcoming their first child marks a new chapter in their lives.
What do you think about this story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Sources:
- Dantri.com.vn
- Naver, Newsen, Dispatch
