Actress Lee Si-young shared that she is pregnant with her second child. This news came just four months after she confirmed her divorce from businessman Cho Seung-hyun. The situation is complicated. Some people support her decision, while others are confused or critical.
This case forces a public conversation about reproductive autonomy in evolving family structures. As IVF use grows globally (1 in 6 couples now seek fertility treatment, per WHO), Lee’s dilemma reflects real-world tensions between biological potential, legal consent, and emotional ownership of embryos post-relationship. Her transparency spotlights issues rarely discussed outside courtrooms.
Lee explained that her pregnancy happened through IVF. She and her ex-husband had frozen embryos stored during their marriage. As the five-year storage limit was ending, she had to make a decision: discard them or go through with a transplant. She chose the transplant. At the time, she and Cho were already sorting out their divorce.
She said the decision wasn’t easy. Her ex-husband didn’t agree with it. But she went forward anyway. She shared on Instagram, “I will fully bear the weight of the decision I made.” She also said that she couldn’t bring herself to throw away the embryo. For her, it felt like another chance at a meaningful life. Her first child, born eight years ago, was already her biggest joy.
Lee has always said motherhood gave her strength. Si-Young called her first son her “angelic child.” She also said she didn’t want to live with regrets again. She felt her first experience as a mother taught her what truly matters. That influenced her decision to have another baby, even if it meant doing it alone.
Her post was emotional and honest. She admitted the path ahead might not be easy. Still, she said she felt thankful and peaceful. She also said she would accept whatever judgment comes her way. “I will live faithfully with a deep sense of responsibility,” she wrote.
South Korea’s Embryo Protection Act requires spousal consent for IVF transfers during marriage, but lacks clarity for divorced couples. Contrast this with:
- UK: Mandates written spousal consent for embryo use, even post-divorce.
- California, US: “Intent to parent” contracts can override biological ties.
This legal patchwork leaves divorced individuals like Lee in ethical limbo—ripe for expert commentary.

Mixed Reactions and Legal Concerns
Public response is divided. Some fans and actors congratulated her. They praised her courage and motherly love. Others questioned her decision, especially since her ex-husband was against the pregnancy.
Cho responded through Dispatch. He said he often talks to Lee about their first child. But he also confirmed he did not agree with the second pregnancy. Still, he said he plans to take responsibility as a father. He added that they would discuss what’s needed for childbirth and raising the child.
The legal side is also getting attention. Some are wondering if it’s okay to have an embryo implanted without full consent from both parties. One family law expert said it might cause legal complications. Since the child will be born after the divorce, the father must legally recognize the child. That means he has to confirm it publicly or through the court. Once that happens, all legal duties—like custody and child support—will follow.
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This isn’t just about parenting. It’s also about ethics and rights. Is it fair to go through with a pregnancy if one parent disagrees? That’s a question people are asking. Some online comments said Lee was selfish. Others said her choice was personal and brave.
What makes this more complicated is how public everything has become. Lee spoke openly on Instagram. She also declined wine on a recent YouTube show, hinting at her pregnancy. Fans guessed she was expecting even before her announcement.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
This story isn’t just about a celebrity pregnancy. It touches on big ideas—parental rights, reproductive choice, and what it means to raise a child after divorce. It’s not a black-and-white situation.
Lee’s choice shows how personal motherhood can be. She acted based on her past regrets and deep feelings about parenting. But her decision also affects her ex-husband and both their children. And that makes it a public matter too.
It’s clear that she didn’t take this lightly. She mentioned every angle she thought about. She knew not everyone would support her. Still, she believes this was the right path for her. She said her life now feels a little more complete.
The future is uncertain. But the spotlight will stay on how both Lee and Cho handle things from here. Their choices will not only shape their child’s life but may also influence future conversations around embryo rights, post-divorce pregnancy, and shared parenting responsibilities.
For now, Lee Si-young’s second pregnancy after divorce remains a rare and emotional case that blends personal choice with public consequences. Some call it bold. Others call it unfair. But either way, it’s real, and people are watching.
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Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.