Lee Si Young’s solo IVF pregnancy sparks divided public reaction.
Actress Lee Si Young’s announcement that she is pregnant with her second child—conceived through IVF using a frozen embryo created during her past marriage—has ignited intense debate among the Korean public. The controversy stems from the fact that the procedure was carried out without the consent of her ex-husband.
On July 8th KST, Lee revealed via social media that she had made the decision alone to undergo embryo implantation as the five-year storage period for the frozen embryo neared its expiration. “Although the other party did not agree, I chose to proceed and will carry the full weight of that decision,” she wrote.
The revelation drew sharply contrasting reactions online:
▶ Supportive Voices
Many praised Lee’s choice as one of maternal agency and emotional courage:
“It’s her body, her choice, and she’s ready to raise the child alone—respect.”
“She’s taking responsibility and making a beautiful decision.”
“As long as she’s prepared to love and care for the baby, that’s what matters.”
Some commenters reasoned that since the embryo was created during marriage with initial mutual intent, her decision was ethically justifiable—especially given the urgency before its expiration.
▶ Critical and Concerned Responses
Others raised significant ethical, legal, and emotional concerns:
“How is it even possible to go through IVF without the father’s consent?”
“This sets a dangerous precedent. Reproductive rights go both ways.”
“The ex-husband may now have a biological child he didn’t agree to have. That’s deeply unsettling.”
Critics argued that regardless of Lee’s intentions, the lack of mutual agreement challenges notions of parental rights and shared responsibility. Some viewed it as a unilateral decision that could affect not only the father but the child’s future as well.
Lee’s ex-husband later confirmed he did not consent to the pregnancy but expressed his willingness to “fulfill his duty as a father now that the child exists.”
As the debate unfolds, Lee’s decision continues to raise complex questions about reproductive autonomy, co-parenting after divorce, and the legal and moral implications of using preserved embryos without both parties’ consent.
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