Dr. Esther Yeo Opens Up About Struggles with Depression and Consideration of Assisted Suicide

Dr. Esther Yeo, a physician and television personality, has made a shocking revelation about her battle with treatment-resistant depression, admitting that she has considered voluntary euthanasia.

In the Disney+ show 'Fate War 49,' released on the 26th, Dr. Yeo sought advice from the renowned 'baby shaman' and fortune teller Lee So-bin, who gained fame for predicting the future of MC Mong on the SBS show 'Star King.'

In the episode, Dr. Yeo disclosed that her depression worsened following her sibling's death. She stated, "The treatment hasn't been effective, and I've undergone multiple electroconvulsive therapies," adding, "This treatment can lead to memory loss, and I don't want to live like that for long." She further confessed, "I pick a date to die every day." Subtitles in the scene noted, 'In 2025 (at age 61), considering voluntary euthanasia abroad due to treatment-resistant depression.'

Dr. Yeo mentioned, "I initially chose November 18 but reconsidered to avoid family birthdays," and added, "I thought leaving on Christmas would be too hard for my family every year." She continued, "I postponed the date to next year, thinking it wouldn't be right to do it before the show airs."

In response, Lee So-bin advised, "Keep postponing the date every year," and encouraged her to "endure through work and responsibility," acknowledging that relying on family might not be enough. Dr. Yeo appeared surprised by the accuracy of Lee's insights.

Previously, Dr. Yeo had inquired about her husband Hong Hye-gul's potential for remarriage on the show. When asked why she was curious about this, she replied, "If my husband shows signs of remarrying, it means it's time for me to leave this world."

Lee So-bin reassured her, saying, "You are your husband's last love," and confirmed there was no remarriage in his future. He comforted her by saying, "Please hold on for just two more years." At the end of the show, Dr. Yeo tearfully stated, "I won't set a date anymore. I'll try to endure." Viewers expressed their support with comments like "You're brave" and "We support you."

Last year, Dr. Yeo revealed on her YouTube channel that her weight had dropped to 52kg during her depression treatment. In the video, Hong Hye-gul shared that Dr. Yeo was experiencing anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure in everyday activities.

※ If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the suicide prevention hotline at ☎109 or the 'Madeleine' suicide prevention SNS counseling service for 24-hour expert support.

By Soo-min Lee, TenAsia Reporter danbilee19@tenasia.co.kr