In a move that has caught many fans by surprise, South Korean actress Lee Si Young is officially ending her marriage to businessman Jo Seong-hyun after eight years together. On March 17, 2025, her agency, ACE FACTORY, confirmed what had been circulating as rumors: “They are in the process of getting a divorce through mutual agreement.”
While the news has left many stunned, the agency has also asked for understanding, requesting that the public and media respect the couple’s privacy during this time, as it involves deeply personal matters. Beyond confirming the divorce, they’ve remained tight-lipped on further details.
From a Fairytale Wedding to Headlines of Separation
Lee Si Young and Jo Seong-hyun’s love story first caught the public eye back in 2017, when they married in a private yet highly publicized ceremony. At the time, Lee was soaring to new heights in her acting career, while Jo was making waves in the restaurant industry, earning the nickname “Little Baek Jong-won” for his aggressive business expansion. Their wedding was one of those stories fans loved—an actress at the peak of her fame and a self-made entrepreneur building his empire.
The following year, the couple welcomed their son in January 2018, further cementing their image as a loving family. Lee often shared moments from her home life, letting fans into her world through TV variety shows like I Live Alone and Point of Omniscient Interfere. The glimpses into her balancing act of being both a devoted mother and a busy actress made her even more relatable and beloved.
A Shocking Split After Years of Public Affection
Given how open Lee Si Young has been about her family life, the news of their separation has come as a shock to fans who saw them as one of the entertainment industry’s more grounded and affectionate couples. According to a report from YTN, the couple filed for divorce earlier this year at Seoul Family Court, with many of the key terms already settled. However, a few elements of the agreement are still being finalized.
While neither Lee nor Jo has publicly commented on the reasons behind their decision to part ways, speculation is swirling. Many point to Jo’s ever-growing business empire and Lee’s high-demand acting career as possible factors. As with many power couples, balancing family life with individual ambitions can sometimes create unseen challenges.
A Journey of Resilience: Lee Si Young’s Rise in Entertainment
For those who’ve followed Lee Si Young’s career, it’s clear that she’s no stranger to overcoming challenges. Lee first made her acting debut in 2008, quickly gaining recognition with her role in the mega-hit drama Boys Over Flowers. Not just stopping at romantic dramas, Lee showcased her versatility by appearing in the variety show We Got Married, where her humor and candidness won over viewers.
But what really sets Lee apart from many of her peers is her fierce dedication to fitness and physical endurance. Her love for boxing isn’t just a hobby—it became a pivotal part of her public persona. She trained hard, competed as an amateur boxer, and even won a championship, proving that she’s more than just another pretty face on screen.
The Netflix Era: Sweet Home and Global Recognition
Lee’s athleticism paid off in spades when she was cast as a special forces firefighter in Netflix’s Sweet Home, a global hit that catapulted her action-hero status to new heights. Her performance in seasons 2 and 3, both released in 2024, received critical acclaim, with many praising her for performing her own stunts and bringing realism and grit to the role.
The series solidified her place as one of Korea’s most versatile and physically committed actresses. Whether portraying a romantic lead or a fearless fighter, Lee consistently pushes herself beyond expectations.
Fans React with Mixed Emotions
The news of Lee’s divorce has sparked a wave of reactions online. Some fans expressed sadness, having admired the couple’s seemingly strong bond and Lee’s openness about family life. Others have shown support, emphasizing that personal happiness and well-being come first, regardless of public perceptions.
What’s clear is that Lee has a loyal fanbase that respects her for her honesty, resilience, and drive—qualities that have been evident throughout her career.
