Sung Yu-ri Balances Parenting and Public Scrutiny with Dad’s Caring Driving Advice
On May 8, actress Sung Yu-ri took to social media to share a candid moment from her daily life. Captioned “From my dad’s perspective: Issues with my driving,” the post quickly gained attention—not only for its humor but also for its subtle poignancy amid her ongoing family circumstances.
The post featured a photo showing her father’s handwritten notes and illustrations critiquing her driving. Known to be a pastor, Sung Yu-ri’s father methodically categorized various issues and suggested improvements, showing the kind of affectionate concern typical of a parent. Many fans saw the gesture as both humorous and touching, particularly since he appears to be supporting his daughter more closely while her husband is currently serving time in prison.
Sung Yu-ri has been facing public and professional challenges since her husband, former professional golfer Ahn Sung-hyun, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison in December 2024. The couple married in 2017 and welcomed twin daughters in 2022.
Ahn Sung-hyun was found guilty of receiving bribes worth over 3 billion KRW (approximately $2.2 million), including luxury watches and a membership to a high-end restaurant. These payments reportedly came from Kang Jong-hyun, the de facto owner of cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb, in return for facilitating a crypto coin listing between September and November 2021. The high-profile nature of the case has placed Sung Yu-ri under intense public scrutiny, despite her not being involved in the alleged crimes.
The scandal has undeniably affected Sung Yu-ri’s public image and career. Following the conclusion of her variety show Can Breakups Be Recalled? on KBS2 in April 2023, she halted most entertainment activities. Her return to the spotlight came through home shopping broadcasts, a move that generated mixed reactions from the public.
Still, she remains quietly active on social media, offering glimpses into her life as a mother of twins and daughter to a concerned father. Her recent post about her dad’s driving critique resonated with many fans who viewed it as a moment of light-hearted vulnerability and familial warmth in a difficult time.
Sung Yu-ri originally rose to fame as a member of Fin.K.L, one of K-pop’s first-generation girl groups, debuting in 1998. After the group’s activities slowed, she successfully transitioned into acting, taking on lead roles in dramas such as Thousand Years of Love (2003) and The Snow Queen (2006). Her elegant image and versatile performances helped establish her as a respected figure in Korean entertainment.
Her 2017 marriage to Ahn Sung-hyun marked a new chapter, as she shifted her focus more toward family life. The birth of her daughters in 2022 was widely celebrated by fans. However, her husband’s legal issues have clouded that joy, prompting Sung Yu-ri to adopt a lower public profile.