South Korean actress Lee Si-young, 43, announced her second pregnancy on Tuesday (8 Jul 2025) through an Instagram post.
The Sweet Home and Boys Over Flowers star revealed she conceived via in-vitro fertilisation using a frozen embryo created with her ex-husband’s sperm.
Lee proceeded with the IVF procedure without obtaining consent from her former spouse, restaurateur Cho Seong-hyun, 52. The couple divorced in March 2025 after eight years of marriage.
Five-Year Embryo Storage Period Prompted Decision
Lee explained that the five-year freeze period for the embryos was approaching, forcing her to make a choice before they were disposed of. She decided to receive the transplant herself rather than discard the embryo.
“The other person did not agree, but I will bear the full weight of the decision I made,” Lee wrote in her Instagram post. She added that she could not bring herself to discard the embryo whose storage period was almost over.
The actress and her ex-husband had prepared for a second child through IVF during their marriage. However, a long time passed without receiving a fertilised embryo, and divorce discussions naturally arose.
Lee has a seven-year-old son named Jung-yoon with Cho.
Actress Defends Choice Despite Criticism
Lee acknowledged that many difficulties may lie ahead, but stands by her decision. She described her current state as more peaceful and happy than ever, expressing gratitude for the new life coming to her.
“Right now, I am grateful for the new life that came to me, and I am having a more peaceful and happy time than ever,” she stated.
The actress said she endured her “difficult married life” because of her son, who brought her happiness, hope and inspiration. She described Jung-yoon as her “angelic child” who made her feel that motherhood was the reason for her existence.
Lee promised to accept criticism and advice from fans in the future. She committed to living faithfully with deep responsibility, acknowledging her shortcomings while being grateful for this second chance at motherhood.
Her announcement sparked polarising reactions online. Supporters called her decision “courageous” and “beautiful,” while critics argued the choice should have required her ex-husband’s consent.
Some commenters expressed concern that Lee’s decision might set a dangerous precedent regarding parental rights and shared responsibility, potentially affecting the unborn child’s future.
According to reports, Cho confirmed he did not consent to the pregnancy but stated he is willing to “fulfil his duty as a father now that the child exists.”
Lee rose to fame after joining the cast of South Korean reality show We Got Married in 2008. She later starred in hit K-dramas including Boys Over Flowers in 2009, Zombieverse in 2023, and Sweet Home from 2020 to 2024.
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