Son Yeon-jae Hopes for a Son: Olympic Star Shares Candid Parenting Concerns
Seoul, South Korea – August 23, 2025 – In a refreshingly honest conversation, former Olympic rhythmic gymnast Son Yeon-jae revealed her hopes for a son as she prepares to welcome her second child. The news, shared during a recent appearance on YouTube channel ‘Lee Min-jung MJ’, has quickly become a trending topic, sparking discussion about gender preferences and the realities of modern motherhood. This is a breaking news update for Archyde.com, optimized for Google News and SEO visibility.
From the Mat to Motherhood: Son Yeon-jae’s Journey
Son Yeon-jae, a household name in South Korea after her impressive athletic career, married a financial professional in 2022. She welcomed her first child, a son, in February of last year. The recent YouTube discussion, featuring actresses Lee Min-jung and golfer Park In-bee, offered a rare glimpse into the personal lives of these high-achieving women and the universal challenges they face as mothers.
“Oh, everyone is so envious. I’m so worried. I have a second baby and I think I’m a son,” Son Yeon-jae confessed, articulating a sentiment many parents experience. Lee Min-jung, mother to both a son and a daughter, playfully countered, “Daughter is also a daughter. My daughter runs like a boy. I grab the refrigerator door and go up.” Park In-bee, a mother of two daughters, added with a laugh, “The first is scary, so there is no such thing.”
The Unexpected Intensity of Motherhood
The conversation wasn’t just about gender preferences; it delved into the often-unspoken realities of parenting. Lee Min-jung humorously admitted, “I actually thought I would sit and draw a picture. I can’t come out of my house.” Park In-bee echoed this sentiment, recalling how she found childcare more demanding than her professional athletic training. “When I was only in the first place, I said, ‘When I was broadcasting or interviewing, exercise is more difficult than childcare.’”
Navigating the Second Child: A Unique Set of Challenges
Welcoming a second child often presents a different set of hurdles than the first. Experts in child development note that parents often experience a shift in dynamics, requiring adjustments in time management, emotional energy, and sibling rivalry management. The initial anxieties surrounding a second child are common, often stemming from concerns about dividing attention and resources. However, many parents also report a deepened sense of joy and fulfillment as their families grow.
Son Yeon-jae’s openness about her hopes for a son is particularly noteworthy in a culture where gender preferences can sometimes be strong. Her willingness to share her feelings contributes to a broader conversation about societal expectations and the importance of embracing the unique qualities of each child, regardless of gender. This conversation is especially relevant as more and more public figures openly discuss their personal experiences with parenting.
Beyond the Headlines: The Evolving Landscape of Celebrity Motherhood
The candid discussion between Son Yeon-jae, Lee Min-jung, and Park In-bee highlights a growing trend: celebrities using their platforms to normalize the challenges and joys of motherhood. This shift is a welcome change from the often-curated image of perfection presented in the media. By sharing their vulnerabilities and honest experiences, these women are fostering a sense of community and providing relatable role models for parents everywhere. This transparency is crucial for dismantling unrealistic expectations and promoting a more supportive environment for families.
Son Yeon-jae’s journey, from Olympic athlete to mother, continues to inspire. Her openness about her hopes and anxieties resonates with parents globally, reminding us that even those who appear to have it all face the same universal challenges and joys of raising a family. As she prepares to welcome her second child, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of motherhood.
