Lee Yo-won Brings Candid Honesty To Men Who Live Alone

On October 25, 2025, viewers of KBS 2TV’s Men Who Live Alone Season 2 (“Salimnam”) were treated to a fresh face as Lee Yo-won stepped into the role of the show’s new MC. For many fans, her arrival marked not just a change in the show’s dynamic, but also the beginning of a more candid conversation about women’s health—something rarely seen on mainstream South Korean television.

From the get-go, Lee Yo-won’s presence brought a palpable sense of excitement. As reported by Newsen and Sports Donga, the other cast members welcomed her warmly, with Park Seo-jin delivering a vibrant janggu performance and even customizing a song to include the MCs’ names. Lee, who has been in the entertainment industry for 28 years, admitted, “I feel excited, almost like I’m on a picnic,” when asked about her first experience as a variety show MC. Park Seo-jin, ever the seasoned veteran, reassured her, “Just enjoy yourself comfortably,” offering his support with a smile.

But it wasn’t just lighthearted banter and musical numbers that defined Lee Yo-won’s debut. In a rare moment of vulnerability, Lee shared her personal battle with uterine fibroids—a health issue that, as she revealed, has shaped much of her life over the past thirteen years. “I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids about 13 years ago and underwent surgery approximately 10 months ago,” Lee disclosed during the broadcast, according to Newsen. She explained that the fibroids have been a recurring problem for nearly a decade, and at one point, she had to have her ovaries removed when the fibroids appeared again.

Lee’s openness didn’t stop there. She described the ongoing pain and the emotional challenges that have come with her condition. “The fibroids are gradually increasing,” she said, noting that the struggle has been long and difficult. She also revealed that, due to the impact on her fertility, her two children were born through in vitro fertilization. “I have to endure pain and the condition has been difficult to manage,” Lee confessed, making it clear that her journey has been anything but easy.

Her decision to speak so candidly about her health resonated with both her fellow cast members and the viewers at home. Lee emphasized the importance of openly discussing women’s health issues, a sentiment that struck a chord in a society where such topics are often swept under the rug. “We need to talk about these things,” she urged, encouraging others to break the silence and seek support.

Elsewhere on the show, cast members found themselves navigating their own personal crossroads. Eun Ji-won, who recently announced his remarriage after thirteen years of divorce, sought marriage advice from Lee Yo-won. “Twenty years is a long time. At some point, there must be a crisis. How do you get through it?” Eun asked. Lee responded with a wry smile, “Crises come all the time. Whenever we faced one, we had a child. It seems like the children helped us overcome those moments.” Eun, ever the quick wit, replied, “So you got through it with children? You’re a real life mentor. I’ll have a lot to learn from you going forward.”

This moment of mentorship and camaraderie reflected the supportive atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Men Who Live Alone Season 2. The show, known for its blend of humor, warmth, and genuine life lessons, continued to deliver on all fronts. The October 25 episode also featured Park Seo-jin’s comedic struggle with romance—his sister Hyo-jung orchestrated a surprise meeting with a blonde English teacher (who turned out to be Maria, an up-and-coming trot singer from the United States) in an effort to nudge him out of his romantic rut. The resulting high-fives, bashful smiles, and playful banter had the studio erupting in laughter, with Hyo-jung teasing, “This is real. He’s never looked at anyone like that before.”

Meanwhile, Ji Sang-ryeol’s budding relationship with home shopping host Shin Bo-ram took center stage. The pair, accompanied by Ji’s family, were swept into a scene reminiscent of a family meeting for prospective in-laws. Shin Bo-ram, reflecting on the whirlwind, said in an interview, “You only know about marriage as time goes by, don’t you?” The couple’s chemistry and the family’s enthusiastic support added a dose of sweetness and hope, reminding viewers of the importance of connection and acceptance.

Yet, it was Lee Yo-won’s story that lingered in the air. By sharing her medical journey, she not only opened a window into her private life, but also set an example for others facing similar challenges. According to Sports Donga, Lee described how, in addition to the physical pain, she’s had to grapple with the emotional toll of her condition. “It’s been difficult to manage,” she said, “but I want people to know they’re not alone.”

Her willingness to address the topic head-on was met with appreciation by her co-stars and the audience alike. In a society where women’s health issues are often considered taboo, Lee’s candor was both refreshing and necessary. “We need to talk about these things,” she reiterated, underscoring the need for greater awareness and support.

As the episode drew to a close, the cast’s interplay of humor, vulnerability, and encouragement left a lasting impression. Whether it was Eun Ji-won’s search for wisdom, Park Seo-jin’s awkward yet endearing attempts at romance, or Ji Sang-ryeol’s family’s playful matchmaking, the show managed to balance levity with sincerity.

For Lee Yo-won, her first outing as MC was not just a professional milestone, but a personal triumph. By sharing her struggles and triumphs, she set a new tone for the program—one that embraces both laughter and honesty. As she continues her journey on Men Who Live Alone Season 2, viewers can expect more moments of genuine connection, heartfelt advice, and, perhaps most importantly, the kind of conversation that brings people together.

There’s no doubt that Lee Yo-won’s debut has already left its mark, reminding everyone that sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is speak your truth—and that a little support goes a long way.