On the February 7 broadcast of KBS2’s variety show Mr. House Husband Season 2viewers saw Lee Min-woo struggle to shoulder growing family responsibilities on his own. While caring for his eldest daughter Ria, who had a persistent fever, Lee became anxious when he realized that his mother was nowhere to be found in the house. Panic set in quickly as memories of an earlier incident resurfaced, when her mother, who had been diagnosed with early-stage dementia, forgot the apartment’s entry code and collapsed outside. “I broke out in a cold sweat remembering that moment,” Lee admitted, unable to hide his fear.
The situation took an even more devastating turn when Lee received a phone call from his mother. Calm but resolute, he told him, “We have come to Namwon. We will live our lives on our own, so you will live yours,” effectively announcing that she had left the house. The studio cast watching the footage reacted with visible pain, commenting that such words must have come from years of emotional build-up.
The conflict between Lee and his mother seemed to have slowly escalated after they started living together. Frequent clashes over childcare methods and daily routines have gradually deepened the rift. Reflecting on the situation, Lee confessed, “I think I hurt my mother more than I thought.” blaming himself for his pain. After seeking understanding from his wife Lee A-mi, he decided to travel to Namwon to find his mother.
When they finally met, years of unexpressed feelings poured out. His mother asked: “When have you ever truly cared about me?” while Lee responded with mixed emotions, saying: “You try so hard you make us feel guilty.” Although they deeply cared for each other, their inability to express concern in a healthy way led to an emotionally charged confrontation that left viewers shaken.
The episode also echoed Lee Min-woo’s previous confessions on the show. He had previously admitted feeling completely drained despite living diligently, describing his state as “I have nothing left but my body.” He revealed that he had been under psychiatric treatment for over six months and had experienced symptoms of panic disorder, including heart palpitations and difficulty breathing.
Adding to his woes was a shocking financial betrayal: Lee revealed that he had been manipulated and deceived by someone he trusted, losing approximately ₩2.6 billion (about $2 million). Combined with past controversies that damaged his public image and even symptoms of facial paralysis, his life was rocked repeatedly over a long period of time.
Lee Min-woo debuted in 1998 as a member of the legendary group Shinhwa and enjoyed enormous success with countless hit songs. Today he lives not only as a singer, but as a father of two daughters and breadwinner.
By the end of the episode, unresolved tension between mother and son hung heavy in the air. Their story, rooted in love, guilt and exhaustion, has left a lasting emotional impact on viewers, highlighting the silent weight of familial responsibility and the painful moments when resistance finally gives way.
Sources: Daum
