Lee Eui-jung, a beloved South Korean actress known for her iconic role in the 1990s sitcom Three Guys and Three Girls, has recently opened up about her life after a grueling battle with a brain tumor. On June 12, 2025, MBN's program Special World aired an intimate look into Lee's daily life, revealing not only her ongoing health struggles but also her complex feelings about marriage with her longtime boyfriend, who is nine years her junior.
Lee's journey is nothing short of remarkable. She first stepped into the spotlight as a child actor at the tender age of seven in 1982 and rose to fame in the mid-1990s with her unforgettable portrayal of the character nicknamed 'Lightning Head' in the popular sitcom. Reflecting on her early success, Lee shared, "My most glamorous period was during 'Lightning Head.' My first appearance fee allowed me to buy an apartment in Gangnam," a testament to her early impact on the entertainment industry.
However, Lee's flourishing career was abruptly interrupted in 2006 when she was diagnosed with a late-stage brain tumor. The prognosis was grim; she was given just three months to live. She recalled the harrowing days that followed: "I received a 3-month death sentence. Every day, I marked an 'X' on the calendar as the days passed. It was to mark the days I lived." Faced with such a dire diagnosis, Lee withdrew from the public eye to focus on treatment and recovery.
Over nearly two decades, Lee underwent multiple surgeries, including gallbladder and cervical disc removal, as well as artificial hip joint surgery. These procedures, while life-saving, have left her with lasting physical challenges, including difficulties conceiving children. Despite these hurdles, Lee has triumphed over her illness, receiving a complete recovery diagnosis after 15 years of treatment. Today, she is active as a live commerce host and businesswoman, carving out a new chapter in her life beyond acting.
Throughout this journey, Lee's boyfriend, nine years her junior, has been a steadfast pillar of support. They have been together for six years, with both families fully endorsing their relationship and hopeful about their future together. The couple's bond is evident in their daily routines—her boyfriend is the first person to greet her each morning, encouraging her through the challenges of rehabilitation and exercise. When Lee expressed how difficult the process was, he reassured her, "Exercising will make it better. You have to go even if you're tired." Their shared moments of vulnerability and strength paint a touching portrait of love persevering through adversity.
Yet, despite this unwavering support, Lee remains hesitant about marriage. She candidly revealed her inner turmoil during the Special World broadcast, saying, "Ordinary people do everything, but why can't I do that?" Her voice trembled with emotion as she admitted, "I can't do what ordinary people do." The root of her hesitation lies in the physical and emotional scars left by her illness and treatments. She fears depriving her boyfriend of the opportunity to have a happy family, a dream she believes he deserves. "It's like depriving my boyfriend of the opportunity to have a happy family, which he dreams of," she confessed tearfully.
This heartfelt revelation moved her boyfriend to tears, underscoring the depth of their connection and the complex emotions they navigate together. Their story highlights the nuanced realities faced by individuals battling chronic health issues and the ripple effects on personal relationships.
Lee's openness about her struggles and hopes offers a rare glimpse into the life of a public figure who has faced extraordinary challenges with grace and resilience. From her early days as a child star to her iconic role in a beloved sitcom, and now as a woman confronting the realities of survival and love, Lee Eui-jung's story resonates deeply.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt. Even as she confronts the limitations imposed by her health, Lee continues to embrace life with courage, supported by love and a renewed sense of purpose. As she navigates this new chapter, her story will undoubtedly inspire many facing their own battles, showing that while life may not always follow the script we expect, it can still be filled with meaning and hope.
