Reunion After 15 Years: Lee So-ra and Hong Jin-kyung Open Up About Their Past

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Model and broadcaster Lee So-ra and Hong Jin-kyung candidly revealed the reasons behind their 15-year estrangement on the premiere of MBC's variety show 'So-ra and Jin-kyung' aired on the 26th.

The episode showcased the two reuniting after a long hiatus. Hong Jin-kyung reminisced about their past gatherings, saying, “As you all know, there was a group of close older sisters. Late (Choi) Jin-sil was there, along with Young-ja, Jung-hwa, So-ra, Sun-hee, and I was the youngest. We used to meet often.”

She continued, “We all went through a lot, which was exhausting. It wasn't that we had a falling out, but each of us had our own struggles, and for reasons unknown, we naturally drifted apart.”

Lee So-ra also reflected on that time, stating, “It was a tough period for all of us. I felt like I wanted to step away for a while.”

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When asked about their reunion after 15 years, Hong Jin-kyung expressed, “It feels strange,” while Lee So-ra added, “I think it will be bittersweet. I might cry.”

The broadcast also revealed the changes each had experienced over the years. Lee So-ra showed mixed emotions upon seeing Hong Jin-kyung after so long.

Hong Jin-kyung reflected on the past 15 years, sharing, “I got married, had a child, battled cancer, and got divorced.” She mentioned undergoing chemotherapy six times, highlighting the difficult times she faced.

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Recalling her battle with ovarian cancer, she confessed, “The first and last rounds of chemo are the easiest. The middle ones, especially the third and fourth, were so tough that I wanted to give up on life.” However, she reassured, “I am healthy now. I am cured.” Lee So-ra warmly responded, “You worked so hard, Jin-kyung.”

Lee So-ra also mentioned Hong Jin-kyung's dedication to the late Choi Jin-sil's children, Hwan-hee and Jun-hee, asking about her commitment.

Lee So-ra remarked, “It's amazing how you continue to care for Hwan-hee and Jun-hee.” Hong Jin-kyung replied, “I couldn't meet them often, but I started with the intention of being consistent from the beginning.”

She added, “I always wanted to be there for them, so they could come to me whenever they needed.” Her words left a touching impression.

Reporter Na-yeon Jo, Ten Asia nybluebook@tenasia.co.kr