Actress Lee Hwi-hyang credits her late husband, Kim Du-jo, with driving her return to acting after a five-year career hiatus, according to a video released on September 29, 2026, by the YouTube channel “Song Seung-hwan’s Wonderful Life.” Lee detailed how Kim, who was 19 years her senior, handled full-time childcare and pushed her to leave provincial theater for Seoul, where she launched the prime years of her career.
The Five-Year Hiatus and Return to the Stage in Pohang
Lee stepped away from acting for approximately five years following her debut in the drama series “Chief Inspector” and her marriage to Kim in 1982. According to coverage from OSEN and Herald Business, the turning point arrived while the couple was living in Pohang, where Lee received an offer to participate in the local Pohang Theater Festival.
Hesitant to commit to three months of rigorous rehearsals because their child was only four years old, Lee initially turned down the opportunity. Her husband stepped in to make the production possible.
Winning the Best Actress Award and Moving to Seoul
With Kim managing daily childcare, Lee performed in the play “Daughter of a Pig”—also referred to in reports as “The Pig’s Daughter”—and captured the Best Actress award at the regional theater festival. Winning the presidential award validated her potential and cemented her return to the craft.
Observing her success on stage, Kim urged her to leave provincial theater behind. “You should be an actor. Following his advice, Lee moved to Seoul. Veteran actor Choi Bool-am attended her performance in person and offered her a role in a play opening at the Hyundai Arts Center, propelling her into the most successful phase of her career.”
Kim Du-jo’s Background and Later Life
Lee and Kim shared two sons during their marriage. According to OSEN and Herald Business, Kim was 19 years older than Lee and had past ties to an organized crime group before their 1982 wedding, but reportedly left that life behind after they married. Kim passed away in 2005 after battling lung cancer.
Common Questions About Lee Hwi-hyang’s Comeback
How long was Lee Hwi-hyang away from acting?
Lee paused her acting career for approximately five years following her debut in the drama series “Chief Inspector” and her 1982 marriage.
What role did Kim Du-jo play in her return?
Kim encouraged her to accept a role in the Pohang Theater Festival, took full responsibility for caring for their young son during three months of rehearsals, and urged her to move to Seoul to pursue major acting opportunities.
When did Kim Du-jo pass away?
Kim died in 2005 after a battle with lung cancer.
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