Lee Soo-Kyung Opens Up About Past Struggles And Wine Passion

On March 18, 2025, actress Lee Soo-kyung made a candid appearance on SBS Plus's entertainment program 'Solo Sura,' revealing her authentic daily life and past struggles with a severe skin disease that forced her to reconsider her career. The show marked a distinct moment as Lee showcased her personal brand of humor and honesty, capturing the hearts of viewers.

During the broadcast, Lee opened with a rather humorous yet startling admission of suffering through a hangover, which happened shortly after waking up. Struggling through her morning routine, she quipped, "My nickname is Lee Alcohol-kyung," which drew laughter from the show's host, Shin Dong-yeop, and viewers alike. In yet another humorous turn, she ordered Pyeongyang cold noodles to help ease her hangover, coupled with soju, painting a relatable picture of a young adult's night gone awry.

However, beyond the lighthearted banter, Lee delved into her past struggles with a mysterious skin condition that plagued her for years. "It was severe. I couldn't even go to work for a time because my entire face looked like a breakout from puberty," she reflected, evoking sympathy from the audience. The actress shared how doctors were baffled, unable to identify the root cause of her skin issue, which later manifested into depression and social phobia. "It got to a point where I considered retiring because I was simply too self-conscious to face anyone," she confessed, highlighting the emotional toll the illness took on her.

Over the course of her four-year hiatus from 2020 to 2024, Lee sought solace in various forms of education, earning certifications in aromatherapy and dog training. "I had to find something to do during that time. I couldn't allow myself to just stop completely, so I learned as much as I could in different fields," she explained. Her journey through these challenges was layered with self-discovery, as Lee found that embracing her inner happiness was more critical than career accomplishments. "It took two whole years for my skin to heal naturally, but it was worth the wait," she shared, emphasizing the mental transformation that accompanied her recovery.

In her upbeat tone, Lee expressed newfound joy in her life, declaring, "My heart being happy is the best thing I’ve realized." This powerful statement resonated with many, showcasing her strength and resilience in overcoming hardship. After acknowledging her struggles with drinking during those years, she humorously mentioned her growing collection of fine wines and spirits, including an impressive 120-bottle collection and rare whiskeys, indicating her return to the world of adult enjoyment.

Another highlight of the episode was Lee's showcase of her liquor collection, which had been a source of pride for her, as she described herself as having succeeded in "wine tech" with rising craft prices in the market. "There’s a list of some of the world’s highest-priced wines in my collection," she teased, stirring curiosity amongst the audience and her fellow guests.

Lee's charisma radiated throughout the show, particularly as she skillfully demonstrated aromatherapy techniques to ease her hangover, leaving everyone impressed by her knowledge and expertise. "I’ve been studying aromatherapy for over a year, and I really believe in the healing it provides," she claimed, reinforcing her commitment to wellness.

In a poignant moment, Lee extended her invitation for a casual gathering to friends through the program, expressing a need for companionship. "I really wanted just one drink with friends but ended up feeling rather lonely when they all declined," she admitted, revealing her longing to reconnect beyond the entertainment facade.

Transitioning from her moments of vulnerability, the spotlight also briefly shifted to her co-star, Jang Seo-hee, who was seen at the Naksansa Temple engaging in a meaningful ritual of 108 bows. Jang's reflections on her own spiritual journey and her aspirations to continue her personal rituals of gratitude intertwined beautifully with Lee’s tale, showing a day of diverse life experiences on 'Solo Sura.'

Lee's story has resonated widely, not merely due to her status as a public figure but because it embodies the universal struggles of self-acceptance, mental health, and the undulating journey of recovery. Her revelations shed light on the often unseen battles faced by many in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Recently, Lee Soo-kyung has signed an exclusive contract with the Korea Management Group (KMG), signaling a new chapter in her career. This development has sparked a wave of anticipation for upcoming projects, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how she will bring her newfound happiness and experiences to her future roles.

As the episode of 'Solo Sura' concluded, audiences were left not only entertained but also inspired by Lee’s candidness and comedic charm. Her willingness to openly discuss the dark days of her life, coupled with her joyous moments, created a relatable and heartfelt narrative that everyone can take something from. Following this new phase in her life, the future definitely looks bright for Lee Soo-kyung, both personally and professionally.