Kim Min-hee and Hong Sang-soo Expecting a Child After 10 Years of Affair

Actress Kim Min-hee (김민희) and director Hong Sang-soo (홍상수) are set to become parents after a decade-long affair. Reports from Dispatch on January 17 revealed that the couple is six months pregnant, having discovered the news last summer while maintaining their relationship.

On January 15, the couple was seen together at a gynecological check-up, seemingly unfazed by public scrutiny. They have been living together for the past ten years, with Hong having moved out of his home in Apgujeong, Seoul, to reside with Kim in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province. They previously acquired a new home in Hanam, where Kim's parents also live.

Since Hong has not finalized his divorce from his wife, any child born to Kim will be registered as an illegitimate child in Hong's family registry, with Kim's child being recognized as the child of Hong's legal spouse. However, Kim can independently register the child under her own family registry.

Despite their love and the news of the pregnancy, public sentiment towards the couple remains largely negative, a sentiment echoed by fans. While Kim's supporters had quietly backed her relationship with Hong for years, reactions shifted dramatically following the pregnancy announcement. Many fans expressed feelings of disappointment, stating things like, "It's time to say goodbye to Kim Min-hee," and "I can no longer support her now that she is pregnant."

Kim and Hong's relationship began while working on the film "Right Now, Wrong Then" (지금은 맞고 그때는 틀리다), which was released in 2015. Their affair became public in 2016, and they openly acknowledged their relationship in 2017. Throughout their time together, they have collaborated on various film projects, including "On the Beach at Night Alone," which earned Kim the Best Actress award at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival, making her the first Korean actress to achieve this honor.

The couple has maintained a low profile in South Korea, avoiding public appearances but occasionally attending international film festivals together, showcasing their enduring affection. As they navigate their lives together, they have been spotted enjoying casual outings, such as dining at popular restaurants in Seoul and shopping at local markets in Hanam.