‘Lee Byung-hun’s Wife’ Lee Min-jung Reveals What She Lost After Giving Birth

Actress Lee Min-jung recently revealed that her eyesight declined due to pregnancy and childbirth.

In a video posted on her YouTube channel on April 16, Lee responded to fans' questions during a casual Q&A session. When one viewer commented, “Are you really a mom of two? You look way too young!” she smiled but also opened up about a personal change.

“Thank you for saying I don’t look too different on the outside,” Lee replied. “But I’ve lost my eyesight.” She clarified that her vision had significantly worsened since becoming a mother. “Giving birth isn’t easy. Everyone, please be good to your moms,” she added with sincerity.

Lee Min-jung, married to Squid Game star Lee Byung-hun, gave birth to her son at age 34 and welcomed her daughter at 42.

The Physical Toll of Motherhood: How Pregnancy and Childbirth Can Affect Vision

Lee Min-jung’s experience isn’t unique—many women report vision changes after giving birth. It’s not uncommon to hear new mothers say, “I can’t see as clearly anymore” or “My vision just isn’t what it used to be.”

Blurred vision, trouble focusing, and general eye discomfort are often overlooked yet real postpartum symptoms, much like more commonly discussed issues such as hair loss or mood changes. And it’s not “just in their heads”—there are biological reasons behind it.

The most significant factor is hormonal fluctuation. During and after pregnancy, levels of estrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin shift dramatically. These hormonal changes can alter the thickness and curvature of the cornea, which in turn affects how light is refracted into the eye, leading to temporary changes in vision.

Some women experience corneal swelling or dryness, both of which can cause blurry vision or difficulty focusing.

Water retention is another contributor. As the body holds more fluid during pregnancy, it can cause swelling in eye tissues like the cornea and lens, again distorting vision.

Postpartum dry eye syndrome is also common. Sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies can reduce tear production, leaving the eyes dry, irritated, or painful—which all impact visual clarity.

Blood pressure and blood sugar changes during and after pregnancy may also affect eye health. Conditions like gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes can damage the retina, leading to complications such as diabetic or hypertensive retinopathy, which may require medical attention.

Additionally, weakened eye muscles after childbirth—especially those used for focusing—can make near vision blurry, and the symptoms may worsen with fatigue.

The Good News: Vision Usually Recovers

The silver lining? In most cases, postpartum vision changes are temporary. As hormone levels stabilize over the months following delivery, eye health typically improves.

Still, for some women, the issues persist or worsen—so regular eye exams are essential.

To support postpartum eye health:

Stay hydrated and eat a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Avoid extreme dieting, especially while breastfeeding.

Keep indoor humidity at a comfortable level.

Use artificial tears to relieve dry eyes if needed.

Limit screen time, and take short eye breaks every hour during reading or smartphone use.

If you experience sudden vision loss, eye pain, or redness, seek prompt care from an eye specialist.

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