Actress and screenwriter Jung Eun-hye, who has Down syndrome and is renowned for her smiling face and portrait painting skills, has confirmed that she is adopting her stepfather's surname, officially initiating the legal process in a grateful gesture.
In an Aug. 12 video on her YouTube channel 니얼굴 은혜씨, "From Cat Adoption to Writing an Adoption Statement, and Newlywed Life Reflections."
Jung explained her desire to keep her stepfather, Seo Dong-il's name, rather than that of her estranged biological father.
READ MORE: This 'Our Blues' Star Reportedly Releasing Life Documentary This Summer
"It would be much better if my name changes to Seo Eun-hye. He would truly become my real younger sibling's and my real father," she explained.
Citing her reason while appearing on the video, which also showcased moments from her life as a newlywed after being featured on SBS's Same Bed, Different Dreams 2.
In order to make her decision official, Jung penned an adoption letter detailing her background.
"I had a biological father, but he and my mom didn't get along, so she remarried. After the divorce, I cut off contact with him. One day, he didn't come to see me anymore," she explained.
She went on, "My real father is Seo Dong-il. I also have a husband, and I'm living happily. Please allow my father, Seo Dong-il, to become my legal father through adoption so we can live happily together."
Jung recently celebrated her 70th day of marriage to Cho Young-nam, whom she met through a public job program for the developmentally disabled. The two dated for a year prior to getting married in May.
READ MORE: Han Ji Min, Kim Woo Bin's 'Our Blues' Stirs Frenzy — Here's Why
