Hwang Jung-eum Opens Up About Divorce, Childhood and Former Husband “I Thought He Was Just Busy With Work”
Actress Hwang Jung-eum shared a heartfelt reflection on her past marriage, her upbringing in a divorced family, and what she initially misunderstood about her ex-husband during a recent appearance on SBS Plus and E Channel’s variety show “Because I’m Solo”.
The April 1 broadcast featured Hwang Jung-eum and her long-time friend as well as former co-star, Choi Daniel, known for their roles in the hit sitcom High Kick Through the Roof.
Describing him as her “only male friend” and someone she can truly confide in, Hwang Jung-eum expressed gratitude for his support during difficult times. “It was my first time experiencing something like that. It was so hard. I appreciated your call so much,” she said emotionally. “I don’t have many friends like you.”
Choi Daniel recalled visiting Hwang Jung-eum’s home during her marriage. He asked, “Your ex-husband seemed like a kind person. We had a meal together. He seemed really busy was it because of business?”
To this, Hwang Jung-eum candidly replied, “He was really busy… I thought it was because of business,” subtly implying there may have been more to his absence than work commitments.
The actress also opened up about her own childhood, revealing, “My parents divorced when I was in the third grade. Even though I grew up in a divorced family, I was really close with both of them.”
She emphasized that her parents found happiness individually, and that their separation was ultimately a blessing. “I think it was better that they parted ways if they weren’t happy together. Had I grown up watching them fight all the time, I would have been miserable.”
Raised by her grandmother after her parents’ divorce, Hwang Jung-eum reflected on what she gained despite early hardships. “There was a sense of emotional lack, but I also received twice the love from both my mom and dad. That love made me who I am today, and that’s why I’m not afraid of divorce,” she explained.
Finally, she expressed a strong sense of resolve for her children. “I made this choice for happiness. I will give my best to my kids. I’ll try harder to become an amazing mom.”
The episode drew attention for Hwang Jung-eum’s vulnerable honesty and quiet strength as she navigates her new chapter post-divorce. Fans have praised her maturity and emotional insight, calling her “a true role model of resilience and motherhood.”