Why Korean Herbalist Lee Gyeong-je Refused to Divorce: A Humorous Take on Marriage

On the recent episode of Channel A's 'Best Friends Documentary – Table for Four,' aired on the 9th, Korean herbalist Lee Gyeong-je shared a humorous story about his marriage, revealing why his request for a 'graduated divorce' was denied.

The episode featured broadcaster Choi Eun-kyung, along with guests Lee Gyeong-je, comedian Kim Young-hee, and broadcaster Kim Sae-rom. Choi and Lee, who became friends through a TV program, showcased their close bond.

Choi, known as a 'late bloomer in drinking,' shared, "These days, I can enjoy a glass of white wine. My husband often asks, 'Shall I pour you some white wine?' whenever we make eye contact. I wonder what he's planning by getting me to drink," she joked, highlighting their strong relationship.

In contrast, Lee Gyeong-je made a surprising revelation, saying, "I don't drink with my wife." He explained, "Up to one bottle of wine, things are pleasant. But when my wife drinks, serotonin is released, making her talkative, while I become sensitive due to dopamine."

He added, "After two bottles, her words start to irritate me, leading to arguments and us retreating to separate rooms. That's why we don't drink together."

Choi and Lee also shared their unique friendship as 'Pilates buddies.' Lee, who started Pilates on the recommendation of his wife and daughter, humorously compared himself to a hippo trying to catch up with a crane, referring to Choi's skills. He admitted to being diagnosed with a neck disc issue after exercising.

Lee mentioned, "My wife and daughter, who praised Pilates, apologized to me," and humorously noted, "I've been living with someone I'm not compatible with for 30 years."

Lee shared a humorous anecdote about his 25th wedding anniversary, saying, "I requested a 'graduated divorce,' and my wife asked if I had another woman. I told her that with newfound freedom, why would I want another woman? She said she'd agree to the divorce if I found someone else. Since I haven't, we remain married," he laughed.

Meanwhile, Lee and Choi maintain a warm friendship, often leaving delicious food on each other's doorsteps. When asked by Kim Young-hee and Kim Sae-rom if Lee's wife gets jealous, Lee assured them, "She's met Choi and knows she's a good person, so there's no issue." Choi added, "Even our golf outings were arranged by Lee's wife," highlighting their close-knit friendship.

Reported by Eun-jeong Kim, TenAsia. Email: eun@tenasia.co.kr