On July 8, actress Lee Si-young shared on her personal social media that she is currently expecting her second child. She had married a food entrepreneur in September 2017 and welcomed a son in January 2018. However, the couple divorced in March 2025 after eight years of marriage.
In her announcement, Lee Si-young explained that the pregnancy was made possible through in vitro fertilization (IVF) performed during her marriage. As the five-year storage period for her frozen embryos approached expiration, she made the personal decision to proceed with embryo implantation, despite her ex-husband’s opposition.
“As all legal matters between us were coming to a close, I had to make a choice. With the storage period for the embryo nearing its end, I chose implantation rather than disposal,” she stated. “The father did not agree to this decision, but I am prepared to take full responsibility.”
The decision to proceed without the father’s consent has triggered widespread public debate, particularly regarding the legal and ethical dimensions of reproductive rights and parental involvement. While some netizens question whether embryo implantation without renewed consent is lawful, others argue that the initial agreement during fertilization may constitute prior consent.
On the same day, Lee Si-young’s ex-husband issued a public response through Dispatch, confirming his lack of consent for the second implantation but expressing his intention to take responsibility moving forward.
“It’s true that I didn’t agree to the pregnancy. However, now that the child is on the way, I will fulfill my responsibilities as a father. I’m willing to cooperate regarding childbirth, child-rearing, or any necessary support,” he stated. “Even after our separation, I’ve remained involved in raising our first child. I will continue to do the same for the second.”
Public reactions remain divided. While some praise both parties for taking responsibility, others remain critical of the unilateral decision to implant the embryo. The situation has led to broader discussions on the autonomy of women in reproductive decisions versus the ethical implications for co-parents and children.
Lee Si-young had previously appeared on a YouTube show hosted by Shin Dong-yup, where she declined alcohol due to “ongoing treatment.” At the time, few suspected pregnancy given her recent divorce, making her announcement all the more unexpected.
As the situation continues to unfold, Lee Si-young’s bold decision and public transparency have placed her at the center of a cultural and ethical debate that is likely to resonate far beyond the entertainment world.
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