A Korean star has sparked heated debate online by firmly standing by her decision to enter her wedding venue alone, breaking traditional customs. The move has sparked intense discussions in some circles.
On the 12th, influencer and broadcaster Kim Ji Young released a Q&A video on her YouTube channel covering all aspects of her wedding preparations. The most talked-about part was her “principled walk” of entering the venue alone instead of being escorted by her father, and her clarification of related misunderstandings.
Kim Ji Young addressed rumors about her father’s absence that surfaced on online communities right after the wedding with a cool response. She smiled and said, “Some people asked if I didn’t have my dad, but my dad is doing well.”
Regarding entering alone, she explained, “The meaning that a father protects his daughter and then hands her over to the groom didn’t resonate with me. Since I’ve lived independently without parental support as an adult, that meaning wasn’t important.”
Her father’s opinion was reportedly aligned with hers. In support of his daughter’s firm values, he told her, “Do whatever you want,” offering strong encouragement.
As word of Kim Ji Young’s conviction spread, most netizens respected individual beliefs and expressions, but opinions sharply divided among some.
Reactions ranged from praise such as “It’s admirable how confidently she’s carving out her own life,” and “She is the protagonist of the wedding—what does ceremonial convention matter?” to more mixed views like “Marriage is a union between families; the parents might have felt hurt,” and “Living independently and parental protection are separate issues.”
Kim Ji Young also drew attention by emphasizing her financial independence behind the lavish ceremony.
Regarding the guests and catering costs, she explained, “It was a large-scale ceremony with about 1,000 guests, but the meal expenses were sufficiently covered by the congratulatory money received.”
Without parental support, her husband fully covered the wedding costs, and Kim Ji Young appears to have efficiently organized the event by leveraging her influence as an influencer to secure sponsorships and discounts.
Kim Ji Young married Yoon Soo Young, founder of the book club community Trevari, in February. She openly disclosed her pregnancy before marriage, attracting public attention. She recently shared her newlywed life on SBS’s Same Bed, Different Dreams 2 – You Are My Destiny.
