Actor Lee Jung-seop Reflects on His Tumultuous 80-Year Life, Revealing Thoughts of Becoming a Monk

Actor Lee Jung-seop opened up about his challenging 80-year life journey on the MBN program ‘Teukjong Sesang’ (Special World).

Known for his distinctive speaking style, unique voice, and warm demeanor, Lee Jung-seop faced significant hardships from a young age. As the eldest grandson of a traditional family, he was pressured into marriage at 25. His first marriage ended in divorce after just five months. He even contemplated becoming a monk but was unable to due to his parents.

Following his mother's suggestion, he remarried. However, his life took another turn when the family's bathhouse business failed, leading to 17 lawsuits and accusations. He recounted feeling betrayed when his mother ordered him to leave the family home. Despite these challenges, he opened a Korean fine-dining restaurant, working from early morning to late night to single-handedly raise his three children.

"I thought about dying or becoming a monk," Lee Jung-seop confessed, adding that he endured difficult times by praying constantly, evoking sympathy from viewers.

Netizens expressed their empathy and support, commenting, 'Actor Lee Jung-seop, I hope you find happiness now,' 'It's amazing how you overcame those tough times,' and 'You must have gone through so much emotional pain.'