Actress Lee Min Jung is expecting her first child with her husband Lee Byung Hun. The news was announced only days after the women accused of blackmailing her husband Lee Byung Hun were sentenced.
According to press release from her agency, MSTeam Entertainment, "Lee Min Jung is currently 27 weeks into her pregnancy."
The agency was candid about waiting to release the news of her pregnancy.
"It's a blessing to welcome a baby into a family, but we were hesitant to announce this, due to the recent unfortunate circumstances," said the press release. "We also had to consider her condition before revealing the news about her pregnancy. Please understand why we had to be careful about revealing her pregnancy to the public."
At the end of August Lee Byung Hun reported a blackmail incident to law enforcement officials. He said that model Lee Ji Yeon and GLAM singer Da Hee threatened to release video footage of the actor engaging in a sexually suggestive conversation if he did not give them $5 million. The women were arrested, convicted and sentenced. Da Hee received one-year sentence and Lee Ji Yeon a 14-month sentence on Jan. 15.
Because of the blackmail case crowds of reporters surrounded the home that Lee Min Jung shared with Lee Byung Hun. Lee Min Jung stayed at her parents' home rather than her marital home so that she could avoid reporters. She also accompanied her husband to Los Angeles when he went there for work. Fans wondered how the scandal would affect the marriage but Lee Min Jung stood by her husband. The couple was last spotted together in Los Angeles at an amusement park.
The actress used the announcement as an opportunity to thank her fans for their support.
"I first want to thank everyone who were concerned about the recent issues," said Lee Min Jung Despite my worries, I am going to stay determined and strong for the family. I will try my best to not disappoint those who have waited and cared for me all this time."
The press release ended by asking fans to send blessings and encouragement to Lee Min Jung "who is taking her first step toward becoming a mother."
Lee Min Jung's child is due in April. The actress, who was last seen in "Cunning Single Lady," has no plans to work for the duration of her pregnancy. She will remain in Korea and focus on her health.
