Iru, son of celebrated singer Tae Jin-ah, has reconciled with his wife Ok Kyung-i after two years apart to care for his mother suffering from severe dementia. The couple opened up about their emotional journey and renewed commitment during a recent TV appearance.
Two Years of Dedication and Strain
Ok Kyung-i showed unwavering resolve by joining her husband on repeated hospital trips over the past two years. Despite exhaustion, she climbed stairs alongside Iru, ignoring his concerned question, ‘Where are you going again?’ to prioritize her mother-in-law’s health.
Tae Jin-ah highlighted his daughter-in-law’s steadfast support since their marriage seven years ago. He shared, ‘Around April and May last year, I sensed a change when she stepped out. Watching her tackle the stairs, I worried she might be pregnant.’
Hospital Revelations and Family Resilience
Two years prior, a doctor’s visit underscored Ok Kyung-i’s strength. When advised to ‘eat well, young lady,’ she promptly agreed, ‘Me too.’ Tae Jin-ah praised her poise, even in front of her own family, calling it a bold display of pride.
The doctor confirmed dementia had persisted for seven years, now advanced to a severe stage, leaving Ok Kyung-i stunned at the gravity of the condition.
Enduring Dementia Challenges
After a late dinner, Ok Kyung-i gently massaged her sleeping father-in-law, Kan Byeong, demonstrating deep familial care. Moments later, her husband arrived, prompting another tense exchange rooted in the mother’s dementia-fueled outbursts, including renewed divorce threats.
Observing his wife’s restraint as she bit her lip amid the mother’s joyful yet erratic behavior, Iru felt profound appreciation. He explained, ‘Initially, I dismissed dementia as mere exaggeration. But embracing marital duties like this rarely lasts beyond two or three years without commitment.’
Iru reflected further, ‘I once believed no one truly accepted marriage. Correcting that mindset brought deep regret. When she entered the hospital room amid anxiety, my father held her hand, cheering her on despite his own worries. It dawned on me that even he shares this connection.’
A Rare Bond Amid Trials
Iru emphasized the uniqueness of their harmony: ‘Even my father links with her emotionally, a rarity in our family. If genuine affection draws you together, you must nurture it fiercely.’ The couple’s story highlights perseverance, forgiveness, and the profound impact of family caregiving in the face of illness.
