Tae Jin-ah Breaks Down in Tears While Caring for Wife with Dementia on 'Joseon's Love'

On the special Lunar New Year episode of TV Chosun's variety show 'Joseon's Love', Tae Jin-ah's emotional journey as he cares for his wife, Ok-kyung, who is battling dementia, was revealed.

Two years ago, Tae Jin-ah publicly shared his wife Lee Ok-hyung's dementia diagnosis. Now, two years later, Ok-kyung is seen with white hair and in a wheelchair, evoking sympathy from viewers. At 72, Tae Jin-ah struggles physically as he transfers his wife from the car to her wheelchair, admitting, "It's so hard."

A doctor explained Ok-kyung's condition, stating, "It's been seven years since the onset of dementia, and now she is in a severe state, similar to that of a child." Tae Jin-ah expressed his frustration, "Other illnesses can be cured with surgery, but with dementia, communication is impossible. If I get angry, I get stressed too," he sighed.

Three years ago, their son Eru, who initially denied his mother's dementia, moved back in to help care for her. Witnessing his father's struggles, he shared, "I was shocked. Both of them are getting older, and I realized I'm the only one who can take care of them."

Tae Jin-ah traveled to New York in hopes of aiding Ok-kyung's dementia treatment. He compiled videos of her past, including messages from her brother-in-law and old acquaintances, and visited her mother's grave.

At her mother's grave, Tae Jin-ah broke down, praying, "I am living well as you wished, so please grant me this one wish. Please cure Ok-kyung's dementia. I have fulfilled all your wishes." He shed tears he had been holding back.

He continued, "Life is unbearable these days. Every day feels like a thousand years. I cry in the bathroom with the water running so Ok-kyung won't notice. Please, don't let her suffer. If she can't be cured, let her stay as she is. Why am I being tested like this?" Tae Jin-ah's emotional breakdown left viewers heartbroken.

Despite the challenges, Tae Jin-ah sang 'Ok-kyung' with his wife, promising, "I will protect Ok-kyung because I love her."

Reported by Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia. Contact: eun@tenasia.co.kr