Youn Yuh Jung revealed in a film promotion interview that her eldest son is gay and married.
In recent interviews with People, Variety and the South China Morning Post, Youn spoke for the first time about her son’s sexual orientation and marriage.
“My eldest son came out in 2000, and he got married after same-sex marriage was legalized in New York,” she shared. “Since it was still a secret in Korea, our entire family gathered in New York for the ceremony.” She added with a smile, “Now, I like my son-in-law even more than my son.”
Her revelation is deeply connected to the film The Wedding Banquet, in which she appears. The Wedding Banquet is a remake of director Ang Lee’s 1993 film of the same name, directed by Korean-American director Andrew Ahn. The story follows a gay protagonist who plans a sham marriage under family pressure, leading to various comedic and emotional moments.
Youn plays Ja Young, a grandmother who learns that her grandson is gay. She revealed that she personally suggested the line, “Whoever you are, you’re still my grandson.”
“That line came from my own life,” she said. “The director and I shared our experiences to come up with it,” adding, “I hope that line brings comfort to someone out there.”
Youn remarked, “Korea is a very conservative country. I’ve never spoken about my son being gay in Korea before.” She added, “I don’t know how people will react when I return to Korea. Someone might even throw a book at me, but I hope Korea can open its heart.”
As for why she chose to appear in this film, she explained, “This story felt special because it touches on my own personal experiences.” It wasn’t just about the quality of the script—it was a story that reflected her own life, which drew her to the project.
Youn Yuh Jung married singer Jo Young Nam in 1975, had two sons, and raised them alone after divorcing in 1987. She made history in 2021 as the first Korean actor to win an Academy Award, taking home Best Supporting Actress for Minari. Now, with The Wedding Banquet, she once again delivers a performance shaped by her life and convictions.
The Wedding Banquet will be released in North America later this month.
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