Singer Lee Hyori expressed her cautious feelings amid the renewed debate surrounding her past comments on IVF treatments.
On the 8th, Lee Hyori appeared on the MBC FM4U program 'A Perfect Day with Lee Sang-soon' in the segment 'Monthly Lee Hyori' and stated, "I am grateful to be on TV a lot these days, but when I talk a lot, there are consequences that follow," revealing her desire to be more reserved with her words.
She continued, "When I was younger, I could say anything and people would let it slide because I was 'young', but now, as I age, my sense of responsibility has grown. So I think I need to reduce my words."
In response, her husband and DJ Lee Sang-soon joked, "What if you reduce your words on a talk show?" to which Lee Hyori replied, "I won't reduce my words, but I will take responsibility. There are many people who understand."
Recently, Lee Hyori has gained attention for candidly sharing her life and thoughts on various shows, including tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' and the web entertainment program 'Pinggaego'. Among these, her statement from 2022 on MBC Every1's 'Tteokbokki House Oppa' resurfaced, where she said, "I don't want to go as far as IVF. If it happens naturally, I would like to raise it gratefully."
At that time, Lee Hyori expressed hope for having children, saying, "I know someone who had their first child at 58. Hearing such stories gives me courage," while also stating, "I believe that becoming a mother is not the only completion of love. Living a life that is a mother to everyone is also valuable."
Many received her comments in her characteristic honest style, but some netizens raised concerns that her words could hurt those preparing for IVF, leading to ongoing controversy.
The resurgence of Lee Hyori's comments is linked to the growing public interest in the socially sensitive topics of 'childbirth' and 'infertility'. Especially since every expression mentioned by a celebrity can evoke contrasting emotions among people with different perspectives, it seems Lee Hyori was aware of the unexpected interpretations her words could generate.
Nevertheless, she still aims to convey her sincerity in her own words. The expression "I won't reduce my words, but I will take responsibility" seems to reflect her accumulated sense of responsibility and her willingness to respond to the expectations placed upon her.
As she resumes her broadcasting activities while maintaining her unique color, Lee Hyori, who has been loved for a long time, now faces the public with more caution and strength, knowing that even a single word can serve as a public message.
Meanwhile, Lee Hyori and Lee Sang-soon are regarded as a representative 'healing couple' in the entertainment industry, continuing to share their warm daily lives through broadcasts even after returning to Seoul. Their genuine stories and natural appearances continue to provide comfort and inspiration to many.
[Kim Seung-hye, MK Sports Reporter]
