Kim Min Hee, the talented South Korean actress, is in her final months of pregnancy and expected to give birth this spring. This news has drawn significant attention from the public, not only for its personal nature but also due to the nearly decade-long relationship between her and renowned director Hong Sang Soo.
Kim Min Hee and Director Hong Sang Soo at a public appearance (Photo: Getty Images).
An Age Gap Romance and Controversies
Kim Min Hee (born 1982) is 22 years younger than director Hong Sang Soo. They first met in 2015 while working together on the film Right Now, Wrong Then. Their relationship blossomed into love despite societal barriers and public criticism.
In 2017, Kim Min Hee publicly acknowledged her relationship with Hong Sang Soo at the Berlin Film Festival, where she won the Silver Bear for Best Actress. She proudly declared, “This award is for him; I love Hong Sang Soo.” However, this statement sparked intense criticism from Korean audiences.
According to Hong Sang Soo’s ex-wife and daughter, Kim Min Hee was seen as the third party who disrupted his decades-long marriage. Despite this, Hong Sang Soo remained determined to divorce and pursue his relationship with Kim Min Hee, leading to estrangement from his family and friends.
A Journey of Bond and Cinematic Success
After nearly 9 years together, Kim Min Hee has become the muse in most of Hong Sang Soo’s films. The duo has collaborated on critically acclaimed movies such as The Day After, Claire’s Camera, and On the Beach at Night Alone. Notably, The Woman Who Ran earned Hong Sang Soo the Best Director award at the Berlin Film Festival.
Kim Min Hee and Hong Sang Soo holding hands during a stroll in Korea (Photo: Dispatch).
Under Hong Sang Soo’s guidance, Kim Min Hee has established herself as a leading actress on the international stage. She has participated in prestigious events and garnered accolades that many Asian artists aspire to. However, back home, she faces boycotts and reluctance from other directors to collaborate.
Current Life and Joyful Pregnancy News
Currently, Kim Min Hee and Hong Sang Soo reside in Hanam, Gyeonggi, South Korea. According to Yonhap, the couple frequently appears together in public spaces. Recently, paparazzi spotted the 65-year-old director accompanying his pregnant partner to a maternity hospital on January 15.
Reports suggest that Kim Min Hee’s pregnancy has fueled speculation about the couple possibly getting married in the U.S. in 2023. However, neither has confirmed these rumors. The upcoming birth of their child marks a new chapter in their love story.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite heavy criticism in South Korea, Kim Min Hee remains steadfast and continues to support Hong Sang Soo both professionally and personally. She has starred in popular Vietnamese films like The Handmaiden, 19-Year-Old Sister-in-Law, and Hellcats, helping to build a more positive image among international audiences.
Kim Min Hee at an international film event (Photo: Naver).
Conclusion
The love story between Kim Min Hee and director Hong Sang Soo exemplifies the pursuit of personal happiness despite societal pressure. With a flourishing career and a 9-year journey together, they have overcome challenges to build a loving home. The arrival of their first child this spring will be a significant milestone in their lives.
For more detailed information about Kim Min Hee’s career and life, readers can explore reputable sources like Naver, Yonhap, or specialized articles on Korean cinema.
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