Kim Min-hee(42), Linked to Extramarital Affair, Pregnant with Hong Sang-soo’s(64) Child: Due Spring

Kim Min-hee, the acclaimed actress and longtime partner of director Hong Sang-soo, is reportedly expecting their first child together. According to a report by Dispatch on January 17, Kim is currently in the later stages of her pregnancy, with the baby expected to arrive this spring.

A Natural Pregnancy and Life Together

The couple reportedly discovered the pregnancy last summer, and Kim has been preparing for the birth ever since. Dispatch also revealed that the pair is now residing in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province, Korea. Hong is said to have moved out of his former family home in Seoul's Apgujeong neighborhood to live near Kim’s parents.

The media outlet claimed to have spotted Kim and Hong enjoying casual dates in Seoul, visiting well-known restaurants and shopping at local markets near Hanam. The report described the two as unconcerned about the public's gaze.

Notably, Kim was seen driving the couple during these outings, while Hong is reportedly relearning how to drive.

A Relationship Marked by Controversy

Kim Min-hee and Hong Sang-soo have been in a relationship for nine years, first meeting on the set of the 2015 film Right Now, Wrong Then. In 2017, the couple publicly admitted to their affair, sparking significant controversy as Hong was married at the time. Hong has since left his wife, whom he married in 1985, and their only child to live with Kim.

The child is expected to be registered on Hong’s family register as an illegitimate child, with legal documentation likely to list Hong’s wife as the mother. Alternatively, Kim may choose to list the child under her own family registry.

Following the scandal, Kim has exclusively appeared in Hong’s films, including 'The Day After', 'Hotel by the River', 'The Woman Who Ran', 'Introduction', 'In Front of Your Face', and 'Walk Up'. She has collaborated with the director on 13 films in total.

Despite the controversy surrounding her personal life, Kim’s acting career remains notable. In August 2023, she won the Best Actress Award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival for her performance in 'Walk Up'.

As the couple prepares for this new chapter, their relationship continues to draw both public curiosity and criticism.