Lee Sun-ok Challenges Perceptions on Single Motherhood
On November 26, renowned writer Lee Sun-ok, who resonates with youth in their 20s and 30s regarding gender discourse, voiced her concerns on social media about the stigma associated with single motherhood. She posed a thought-provoking question: “If a woman decides to give birth, how can anyone label her a single mother?” This statement is believed to be a reaction to recent articles concerning the birth of child by actor Jung Woo-sung and Moon Ga-bi, which included phrases like “not even in a relationship” and “made a single mother.”
Context Behind the Controversy
Lee emphasized that a woman making an informed decision to have a child should not be equated with being victimized by circumstance. “A 35-year-old woman is not a brainwashed minor,” she noted, questioning the validity of blaming a man for her status as a single mother when she consciously chose to give birth.
Women’s Autonomy and Shared Responsibility
Critiquing the double standard surrounding women’s reproductive rights, Lee pointed out that while advocating for abortion highlights women’s autonomy over their bodies, the narrative shifts unfavorably when they choose to keep the child. “Why is the man blamed for making her a single mother when there was no relationship?” she asked, urging society to reflect on their judgments.
Lee further remarked, “Wasn’t the push to include men in abortion discussions to foster shared responsibility post-birth? With Jung Woo-sung expressing his commitment, such negative headlines are unwarranted.”
The Futility of Judgment
In concluding her remarks, Lee asserted that individuals should not impose their judgments on others’ life choices. “Other people’s lives belong to them. It’s not for us to criticize or assign blame based on our own feelings,” she stated. She suggested that those quick to comment on Moon Ga-bi’s circumstances reconsider their own life choices, especially regarding contraception.
Public Figures Weigh In
Democratic Party lawmaker Lee So-young also weighed in on the ongoing debate, expressing her confusion over why celebrities’ personal decisions—like marriage—should become subjects of societal critique. She argued that the pressure for couples to marry and shoulder responsibilities simply because they had a child together can feel stifling.
Moon Ga-bi’s Pregnancy Announcement
On November 22, Moon Ga-bi publicly announced her pregnancy after a two-year hiatus, stating, “The news came so suddenly; I wasn’t prepared at all. Instead of fully enjoying the joy of pregnancy, I spent much of it quietly, surrounded by my family’s blessings.” This revelation inevitably stoked public interest in the identity of the child’s father.
Reports confirmed that Jung Woo-sung is indeed the father, with his agency, Artist Company, stating that they are consulting on the most suitable approach for raising the child and that he will assume full responsibility. However, it was clarified that marriage is not part of their plans, especially considering Jung Woo-sung is currently dating someone else, adding another layer of complexity to his personal narrative.
Source: Daum
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