In Channel A’s ‘Best Friends Tocumentary Table for 4’ broadcast on the 25th, health trainer Yang Chi-seung invited his best friends Choi Kang-hee, Heo Kyung-hwan, and Seong-hoon to a meal.
When asked, “Are you not going to get married? Are you a celibate?” Choi Kang-hee said, “I am not a celibate. I am a person who wants to get married. Even if I cannot have children, I have a wish to raise at least one child as an adult, even if it is someone else’s child.”
She then expressed her wish, “Isn’t there a variety of family scenes? I want to do my best to love my husband when I have one. I want to live by relying on each other while learning from what I am lacking.”
Heo Kyung-hwan said, “I can’t remember much from when I was in my 30s, and now that I’m in my early 40s, I keep thinking, ‘Why am I like this?'”
Choi Kang-hee also confessed, “One day, I saw that everyone around me was getting married, and Song Eun-i, Kim Sook, and I were left behind. But actually, I don’t know if they were spitting in my face, but no one asked me to get married.”
In response, Seong-hoon was puzzled and said, “There must have been a lot of men who liked you,” and Yang Chi-seung said, “There were a lot. As a fan, but in my personal opinion, after seeing (Kang-hee) for several years, I think you shouldn’t touch this person. Like a daughter or younger sister.” “I was raised with care, but I feel like I might get angry if someone attacks me,” he explained.
Choi Kang-hee said, “Even when we were having a dinner party for a drama, the directors said, ‘Kang-hee should go home, right?’ “I do it,” he said. Yang Chi-seung said, “It feels pure,” and Seong-hoon sympathized, saying, “There is a difference between being innocent and being pure, but my sister is more of the purity side.”
When asked about his ideal type, Seonghoon said, “I’ve always been a cute girl.” Choi Kang-hee said, “My ideal type is someone who is comfortable. Don’t women like someone who boosts their self-esteem and is comfortable? Someone who doesn’t criticize them too much and tells them that they can do well.”
Then Yang Chi-seung said, “People like that are rare. Everyone does that in the beginning, but as time goes by, don’t you see the flaws? Kang-hee always makes the same pattern of mistakes. Even today, she leaves her cell phone and wallet somewhere. At first, in the first year or two, ‘Cute’ ‘Did you lose it?’ But after a few years, you might wonder, ‘How long will this last?’ “Isn’t this how things will change?” he said.
What are the key factors contributing to the changing definitions of family in today’s society?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Relationship Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into modern relationships and family aspirations, inspired by a recent episode of Channel A’s ‘Best Friends Tocumentary Table for 4’. Joining me is relationship expert Dr. Emily Chang. Emily, thanks for being here!
Dr. Emily Chang: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss these important topics.
Editor: In the episode, actress Choi Kang-hee opened up about her longing for marriage and motherhood, despite societal pressures. What are your thoughts on this pursuit of traditional family structures in today’s society?
Dr. Chang: It’s fascinating. Many individuals today feel torn between traditional expectations and their personal timelines. Choi’s desire to love and raise children, even if they aren’t biologically hers, reflects a growing acceptance of diverse family structures. It shows that the definition of family is evolving; it’s no longer just about biological ties.
Editor: Absolutely. This idea of ‘family’ is indeed evolving. Heo Kyung-hwan also mentioned a sense of reflection on life choices as he enters his 40s. Why do you think many people reassess their lives during this transition?
Dr. Chang: Entering your 40s often triggers a life review, a phenomenon seen in psychology called the “mid-life reflection.” Individuals begin to question the paths they’ve taken, grapple with regrets or missed opportunities, and reassess priorities. It’s a crucial period for personal growth, where many seek deeper connections and more meaningful relationships.
Editor: Choi also expressed her feelings of being left behind as her peers married and started families. How can individuals navigate feelings of inadequacy or loneliness in such situations?
Dr. Chang: That feeling is more common than we realize. The key is to focus on self-acceptance and personal goals, rather than comparing oneself to others. Building strong friendships and exploring passions can provide fulfillment. Encouragingly, as Choi highlighted, there are multiple pathways to love and family beyond traditional routes.
Editor: It’s a vital point that love and family can look different for everyone. Do you think societal pressures to ‘settle down’ can hinder personal happiness?
Dr. Chang: Certainly. Societal norms can create undue stress, pushing individuals into relationships or situations that may not be right for them. It’s essential for people to embrace their own timelines and resist the urge to fit into a mold that society promotes. Personal happiness should be the ultimate goal.
Editor: Great insights, Emily. Lastly, what advice would you give to those who feel uncertain about their future in terms of relationships and family?
Dr. Chang: I would encourage them to give themselves permission to explore their desires without pressure. Seeking therapy or joining supportive communities can also provide clarity. What’s important is to stay open to possibilities while being true to oneself. The journey to happiness is personal, and it’s okay to take the time you need.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Chang, for sharing your thoughts with us today. This conversation helps to shed light on the complexities of modern relationships and the evolving notions of family.
Dr. Chang: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important themes.