In a heartfelt apology delivered at the Blue Dragon Film Awards on November 29, 2024, South Korean actor Jung Woo-sung addressed the controversy surrounding the birth of his child with model Moon Ga-bi, born in March 2024. The 51-year-old actor faced significant backlash for not marrying Moon, who is 35, despite her expressed desire for a traditional family structure. Jung emphasized his commitment to take full responsibility as a father, vowing to support both Moon and their child. This incident has sparked a broader discussion about societal norms in South Korea, where only 4.7% of babies were born outside of marriage in 2023, one of the lowest rates among developed countries.
Recent statistics indicate that acceptance of having children outside of marriage has risen to 37% among South Koreans, a notable 15% increase since 2012. However, societal prejudice against single mothers remains prevalent. Kim Min-jung from the Korean Unwed Mothers’ Families Association highlighted that 70-80% of single mothers lack proper child support, with over 20,000 single parents currently living in South Korea. The gender ministry's budget for single-parent support is set at 544.2 billion won (approximately US$383.3 million) for 2024, yet many argue that systemic inequities continue to hinder the well-being of single-parent families.
Lawmaker Lee So-young has advocated for a broader acceptance of diverse family structures, underscoring the need for societal change in light of declining birth and marriage rates in the country. Jung's case has become a focal point in this dialogue, illustrating the complexities of personal choices against the backdrop of traditional values and modern family dynamics. The ongoing conversation reflects a significant cultural shift as South Korea grapples with the realities of single-parent families and the stigmas they face.