On May 29, a video titled “Han Ga-in’s Mother-in-Law, Who Says Her Daughter-in-Law Is Better Than Her Daughter, Makes Her First Appearance (First Broadcast in 22 Years, Paju Eel Mukbang)” was uploaded to Han Ga-in’s YouTube channel Han Ga-in is Free.
Han Ga-in’s mother-in-law treated the staff to grilled eel. The staff were surprised to learn she is 76 years old, commenting, “She’s like a sixth-grader in class 1!” Due to her discomfort with being on camera, only her voice was featured. Instead, footage from her TV appearance 22 years ago was shown.
When asked if she had ever appeared in the media, she revealed she had been on KBS’s Morning Plaza 22 years ago with her son, actor Yeon Jung-hoon, and husband, actor Yeon Kyu-jin. In the archival footage, she exuded elegance and grace.
Han Ga-in’s mother-in-law affectionately calls her by her real name, (Kim) Hyun-joo. Han Ga-in explained, “If I use ‘Ga-in,’ my husband (Yeon Jung-hoon) scolds me, saying, ‘Are you a celebrity even at home?’ He doesn’t like it.”
The mother-in-law fondly recalled the five years she lived with Han Ga-in and Yeon Jung-hoon, saying, “I was so happy. Hyun-joo feels more like my daughter. I don’t know how she feels, but to me, she’s all I have. My daughter even gets jealous.”
She added that she and Han Ga-in never had any mother-in-law conflicts, stating, “We weren’t just on good terms—we were happy living together,” showcasing her deep affection for her daughter-in-law.
Han Ga-in’s rare glimpse into her family life not only touched viewers but also highlighted the warm and genuine bond she shares with her mother-in-law. As fans reacted with affection to the heartwarming stories and nostalgic footage, many praised the unique relationship that defies typical stereotypes.
