Lee Yo-won’s Blunt Marriage Advice Goes Viral on ‘Salimnam 2’ – Is Affection a Habit?
Seoul, South Korea – November 1, 2025 – A recent episode of the popular KBS2 entertainment show, ‘Salimnam 2,’ has ignited a national conversation after actress Lee Yo-won, married for 23 years, offered surprisingly direct advice on maintaining affection in a marriage. The moment, which quickly spread across Korean social media, involved a discussion about a fellow contestant’s budding romance and the importance of verbalizing love. This is breaking news for fans of Korean entertainment and relationship dynamics, and we’re diving deep into what happened and why it matters.
The Scene: A Reality Check on Romance
The drama unfolded as contestant Ji Sang-ryeol expressed anxiety over a potential misunderstanding with Shin Bo-ram, 16 years his junior. After a somewhat awkward exchange with Shin Bo-ram, fellow contestant Kim Jong-min suggested Shin Bo-ram initiate affection by simply saying “I love you.” This suggestion was met with visible discomfort from both Park Seo-jin and Ji Sang-ryeol. It was then that Lee Yo-won chimed in, emphatically stating, “You have to say I love you often.”
What followed was a playful but pointed exchange. Park Seo-jin immediately questioned Lee Yo-won, asking when she last expressed her love to her husband. Lee Yo-won’s response – “I do this to my kids often” – prompted Eun Ji-won to playfully ask why she doesn’t say it to her husband, to which Lee Yo-won quipped, “You don’t have to do it to him anymore.” The moment, captured on camera, has been widely shared and debated online.
Beyond the Soundbite: The Psychology of Affection
Lee Yo-won’s seemingly casual remark touches upon a fascinating psychological phenomenon: the habituation of affection. Dr. Hana Kim, a Seoul-based relationship therapist, explains, “In long-term relationships, it’s incredibly common for expressions of love to diminish over time. It’s not necessarily a sign of waning affection, but rather a natural consequence of familiarity. However, consciously re-introducing those expressions – even if they feel slightly forced at first – can be incredibly beneficial.”
The show also featured a visit to the ‘Joksang’ Philosophy Institute, where Ji Sang-ryeol’s future was read based on the shape of his feet. The reading suggested a potential for marriage and children, prompting Lee Yo-won to playfully urge him to “get married quickly and have a child.” This lighthearted moment underscores the cultural pressure in South Korea to marry and start a family, a theme frequently explored in Korean dramas and reality television.
Ji Sang-ryeol’s Journey and the Power of Reinvention
The episode wasn’t solely focused on relationship advice. Ji Sang-ryeol, grappling with his connection with Shin Bo-ram, also sought a makeover at a wig shop, aiming to present a more appealing image. He ultimately apologized to Shin Bo-ram for his earlier insensitive remarks, promising to be “a cute man just for [her],” even playfully referencing a popular cat character. This demonstrates a willingness to adapt and improve, a common narrative arc in Korean entertainment.
The Enduring Appeal of ‘Salimnam 2’ and Korean Reality TV
‘Salimnam 2’ continues to captivate audiences with its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and relatable relationship struggles. The show’s success highlights the growing popularity of Korean reality television, which often provides a window into the cultural values and social dynamics of South Korea. The show’s willingness to tackle sensitive topics like aging, relationship anxieties, and the pressure to conform makes it particularly compelling. Lee Yo-won’s comments, while seemingly off-the-cuff, have sparked a valuable conversation about the importance of intentionality and consistent effort in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling long-term relationship. The show’s impact extends beyond entertainment, offering a platform for discussing and normalizing the challenges inherent in modern relationships.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on ‘Salimnam 2’ and all things Korean entertainment. We’ll continue to provide in-depth analysis and breaking news coverage as this story unfolds.
