Hwang Jung-eum Opens Up About Dependency on Sleeping Pills After Ex-Husband’s Affair: “Extreme Pain” Experienced for First Time in 20-Year Career

Hwang Jung-eum Discusses Emotional Turmoil and Sleep Struggles Post-Divorce

In the recent episode of “Because I’m Solo,”a joint variety show aired on SBS Plus and E Channel on December 17, actress Hwang Jung-eum opened up about her personal challenges following her divorce. Her candid conversation shed light on the emotional impact of her struggles, particularly regarding her mental health and sleep issues.

Sharing Experiences in Therapy

During the episode, Hwang’s co-star, Sa Gang, visited a psychological counseling center to address relentless insomnia. She expressed, “I used to have no trouble sleeping. Lately, while I can fall asleep without difficulty, I frequently wake up during the night. This recurring disruption has left me feeling drained and unsettled. Even after a full night’s rest, I wake up feeling exhausted and unable to concentrate.” Sa Gang noted that these challenges intensified after experiencing a personal loss.

Empathy from Co-Stars

Chae Rim resonated with these sentiments, recounting her own battles with insomnia. “There were times I was completely unable to sleep, especially after filming. I would crave rest, but sleep just wouldn’t come,” she reminisced. In an alarming experience, she shared, “One day, I decided to freshen up before heading out, but when I did, I suddenly realized I was foaming at the mouth. I had confused foam cleanser with toothpaste while brushing!”

Hwang’s Journey with Sleep Aids

Hwang Jung-eum further revealed her recent reliance on sleep aids, stating, “I’ve found myself becoming more emotional and sensitive now. In the past, I rarely cried, but these days, tears come easily with the supportive people in my life. Throughout my career, I avoided sleeping pills, but after a tough period in November 2023, my sleep quality plummeted, driving me to consider medication. Fortunately, I’ve overcome that phase, and now I can fall asleep almost instantly after lying down.”

Personal Life and Public Controversies

Hwang Jung-eum married former professional golfer Lee Young-don in 2016 and welcomed two sons. However, after initiating divorce mediation in 2020, the couple experienced a temporary reconciliation before announcing renewed divorce proceedings in February of this year. In a dramatic turn of events, Hwang publicly revealed Lee’s infidelity on social media, which escalated into legal disputes, including defamation charges against an unrelated woman she accused of being involved.

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