South Korean actress Lee Si-young announced Tuesday that she is pregnant with her second child — a decision she said she made independently, without the consent of her ex-husband, following the expiration of an embryo storage deadline.

In a heartfelt message shared on her social media account, Lee, 42, wrote, "I am currently pregnant. I decided to share this news myself to prevent any future misunderstandings or speculation."

The actress, known for her roles in dramas such as Sweet Home and The Guardian, revealed that she had undergone in vitro fertilization (IVF) while still married and decided to proceed with implantation recently, despite her divorce being finalized earlier this year.

"When the deadline for frozen embryo storage approached, I chose to proceed with implantation," Lee wrote. "Although the other party did not consent, I am prepared to bear full responsibility for my decision."

Lee said her decision was rooted in the emotional impact of motherhood and the regret she experienced during the birth of her first child.

"My first child brought me so much joy and meaning—I didn't want to experience regret again," she said. "This child, like my first, has already given me strength and peace."

Lee married businessman Jo Seung-hyun, a restaurateur nine years her senior, in 2017. The couple welcomed their son the following year before announcing their divorce in March 2025.

In response to Lee's announcement, Jo issued a brief statement through a legal representative, confirming that he had not been consulted prior to the pregnancy.

"I did not agree to the second pregnancy, especially during our divorce process," he said.

However, he added that he intends to fulfill his responsibilities as a father. "Though I was shocked, I will do my part for the child's well-being, including during childbirth and beyond."

According to Jo's side, he remains actively involved in raising their first son and has maintained regular contact with him since the separation.

Lee's announcement has sparked broad public discussion in South Korea, with many praising her honesty and courage.

Online reactions have ranged from admiration for her maternal commitment to questions about the legal and ethical implications of post-divorce IVF decisions.

"I am humbled by this second chance at motherhood and will accept all criticism or advice with sincerity," Lee concluded in her post. "I only wish to raise my child with love and gratitude, even as a single parent."