Kim Min-hee Pregnant, Hong Sang-soo to Become Father at 64

HANAM, South Korea — South Korean actress Kim Min-hee, 42, is expecting her first child with acclaimed director Hong Sang-soo, 64, according to a report by entertainment outlet Dispatch on Friday. The couple, who have been in a relationship for nine years, discovered the pregnancy last summer, with Kim reportedly six months along and due to give birth this spring.

The pair currently reside in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province, where Hong moved after leaving his previous home in Seoul’s Apgujeong-dong neighborhood to live closer to Kim’s parents. Recent sightings of the couple include outings in Seoul, where they were seen dining and grocery shopping together. Kim has also been driving Hong, who recently resumed driving lessons, likely in preparation for their child’s arrival.

On Jan. 15, Hong accompanied Kim to an obstetrics clinic, supporting her through every step of the process, from initial confirmation to routine checkups and tests. The couple appeared unfazed by public attention, according to Dispatch.

Kim and Hong’s relationship began in 2015 during the filming of Hong’s movie “Right Now, Wrong Then.” Their romance became public in 2017 when they admitted to their affair, which sparked controversy as Hong remains legally married to his wife, whom he wed in 1985. Hong filed for divorce in 2016, but the court rejected the case in 2019, citing that the breakdown of the marriage was primarily his fault. The court stated, “Our legal precedent does not permit divorce claims from the at-fault party.”

The baby will be registered as Hong’s child, likely listed as born out of wedlock. However, Kim may choose to register the child under her name alone. Since their relationship became public, Kim has exclusively appeared in Hong’s films, including “The Day After,” “Hotel by the River,” and “The Woman Who Ran.” Her performance in “By the Stream” earned her the Best Actress award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival last August, during which she was already carrying their child.

Hong, a celebrated auteur in South Korea’s film industry, has directed numerous critically acclaimed films, often collaborating with Kim. The couple’s relationship has been a subject of public fascination and scrutiny, particularly due to the age difference and Hong’s marital status. Despite the controversy, they have continued to work and live together, maintaining a low profile in Hanam.