“Steel Unit W” Star Kwak Sun-hee is Marrying Her Same-Sex Partner in the U.S.

The news about Kwak Sun-hee same-sex marriage has quickly become one of the most discussed cultural moments in Korea this year. Kwak Sun-hee is not just a TV star. She is also one of the most talked about public figures in South Korea today. Her name first became known through Channel A’s reality survival show Steel Unit W.

She entered the show as the leader of the Army squad. People quickly noticed her strong presence and clear leadership style. She was calm, tough, and always pushed forward.

The program aired in late 2024. It was the first female spin-off of the well-known Steel Troops franchise. The format was simple. Teams of female soldiers competed in missions to show strength, focus, and teamwork.

Viewers liked the mix of realism and strategy. Ratings stayed high, and Steel Unit W even hit 3.6% in viewership. For a cable program, that was a strong number. Kwak Sun-hee became the face of the show.

On screen, she stood out for her discipline. She faced sniper battles, endurance drills, and mental pressure. One highlight came when she went against Park Bo-ram from the 707 unit. Park had a reputation as the top female sniper in Korea. Even then, Kwak Sun-hee refused to back down. The way she held herself under pressure impressed many.

Her time on the show built her public image. But her life after the program took an even bigger turn. She became part of a story much larger than reality TV.

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The Love Story Behind the Announcement

Kwak Sun-hee later shared that she never planned to become an activist or even a public figure outside the show. But life pushed her into new ground.

She met her girlfriend in an ordinary bakery in Seoul. She was a customer there. She loved bread and visited often. On one of her visits, she saw a new face behind the counter. That woman is now her partner.

Her girlfriend worked at a food and beverage company but also helped out at the bakery. She recognized Kwak Sun-hee from Steel Unit W. Even with a mask on, her smile caught attention.

Kwak Sun-hee noticed her hairstyle, the way she moved, and how she worked with ease. It was a small scene that turned into something life changing.

Kwak Sun-hee made the first move. Before leaving the bakery, she asked for a direct message. Her girlfriend at first wondered if she was serious or just curious.

But over time, she saw that the interest was real. The relationship grew. They moved in together. But when they tried to register as a married couple, the law in South Korea stopped them. The system only allowed them to list as cohabitants, not spouses.

This gap between their private life and the legal system became part of a bigger issue. It showed how same-sex couples in Korea face limits that affect even daily life. This reality gave extra weight to Kwak Sun-hee’s later decision to come out publicly.

Public Coming Out and Its Impact

On July 13, 2025, Kwak Sun-hee posted on social media. She shared photos with her partner. There were playful photobooth strips, casual shopping shots, and cozy date moments. In her caption, she wrote simple words: “Stunning Day by Day and this is who we R.” It was not staged or formal. It felt like two people just showing love.

The reaction was fast. Many fans left messages of support. Some expressed pride, while others thanked her for being open. A few negative voices appeared, but they were outnumbered by positive comments. For many, it felt like a cultural moment.

She later posted again, saying she felt grateful for the kindness shown. She admitted the attention surprised her. But she said she wanted to live honestly with the person she loves.

In Korea, not many female celebrities have come out publicly. That made her post stand out even more. People saw her not just as a soldier or TV star but as a voice in the LGBTQ+ community.

Wedding Abroad, Dreams at Home

Her story did not stop there. She revealed wedding plans. In November 2025, she and her girlfriend will travel to the United States. They plan to join the New York City Marathon and then exchange vows during the trip. Because South Korea does not recognize same-sex marriage, they chose New York where it is legal.

After that, they want a wedding photoshoot in Jeju Island. Some friends told them it was too soon. But Kwak Sun-hee responded by pointing out that many Korean couples marry within a few months of meeting. For her, the speed was not an issue. What mattered was commitment.

She also spoke about wanting children. She said she hoped to raise kids who resemble both of them. It was both a personal dream and a statement about family life. Same-sex couples in Korea face obstacles in raising children. Her words made people think about what change could mean in the future.

Cultural and Social Meaning

The announcement is more than a love story. It is also about representation. South Korea still struggles with LGBTQ+ acceptance. Public figures rarely speak about it. Many avoid the subject. By speaking openly, Kwak Sun-hee broke through silence.

Her background as a military officer makes this even more symbolic. The military in Korea is known for being conservative. To see someone from that world step forward with honesty brings a different weight. It challenges how people think about gender, service, and identity.

The story also raises questions. Will South Korea move toward recognition of same-sex marriage? Or will stories like hers remain isolated cases? People are asking these questions now. Once again, Kwak Sun-hee same-sex marriage in South Korea becomes not just a headline but a discussion point.

Life After the Army

Outside her personal life, Kwak Sun-hee stays active. She has started modeling and long-distance running. Her athletic side remains strong. Training for marathons keeps her disciplined. The upcoming New York run is not only about marriage. It is also a personal goal.

She and her partner also appeared together on YouTube for the first time. They spoke openly about how they met and what they want in the future. Fans appreciated the honesty. It made them feel close to the couple, not just as public figures but as people.

Kwak Sun-hee’s path shows how one person can shift culture. From leading a squad on Steel Unit W to living openly with her partner, she carries both strength and vulnerability. Her story is still unfolding. What is clear is that her choice to speak has already left a mark on South Korea.

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