Lee Sang-min Reflects on Life Changes After Marriage: "My Wife is the Only One Who Can Change Me"

Lee Sang-min, former member of the group Rula, has experienced significant changes in his life since getting married. Prior to his marriage, Lee often spent his free days at home, indulging in solitude with music and drinks. However, after tying the knot, his daily routine has adopted a newfound structure and purpose.

In a recent interview celebrating the 22nd anniversary of Star News, Lee responded without hesitation when asked about his happiest moments. He stated, "During the day, I am happy because of my waiting staff, and at night, I find joy from my wife." Lee married a 10-year younger woman who is not in the entertainment industry last April, and over a year later, he notes a considerable transformation in his life alongside her.

He described his wife as someone with a strong personality who can be quite annoying, but added, "That annoyance is something I’m grateful for, as she is a significant presence in my life." Lee highlighted the main difference between his past and present life as a more structured existence. He recalled his single days, saying, "When I lived alone, I didn’t need rules, allowing me to lay in bed all day if I pleased, enjoying music and a drink." Now, thanks to his wife, he finds himself more inclined to go out and socialize.

Lee also mentions that at first, he found it bothersome when his wife asked for his opinions on daily matters. Yet he has come to recognize that this collaborative approach is essential, stating, "Living together means we need to discuss and consider each other’s thoughts, which allows me to feel more alive."

He used to live in a mindset that preferred staying home, but now, he acknowledges that going out can be rewarding: "My wife completely changed my closed and quiet self into someone who talks more and actively engages in life."

Moreover, Lee noted that his decision-making has improved since marrying. Previously, he would hesitate for months over minor decisions, but now he finds that he rarely takes more than a couple of days to decide, often making choices in just hours.

In his return to producing idol groups, his wife played a pivotal role. He shared that the decision to venture back into production came after about four to five months of contemplation, a timeline that contrasts sharply with the years of indecision he experienced in the past. Lee believes that without his wife, he might still be deliberating over this important career move.

Lee also reflected on his financial habits, noting a shift since becoming the head of a household. He used to collect figures and sneakers as hobbies but chose to focus those resources on his idol production project instead. "As a head of the family, I thought about what I needed to let go of and how I could reward myself, ultimately, it centered on producing idols," he explained, emphasizing that spending on this project motivates him to work hard.

Having once been burdened with overwhelming debt, which he remembers as a challenging period, Lee found a new drive in his ambitions after fulfilling his financial obligations. He revealed that he carried about 7 billion won ($5.5 million) in debt, a result of personal debts stemming from a company crisis, and he recalls the joy of working long hours to repay it. "When I finally paid off my debt, ironically, I faced one of the most challenging times, wondering what my next goal should be."

This reflection led him back to idol production, a challenge he believes is equally as difficult as managing his previous debts. Lee plans to debut a new group by June of next year, with members already cast and rehearsing. He expressed confidence in the quality of the music they are developing and is excited about the project.

In setting up his production venture, Lee has emphasized creating a stable financial foundation, through various business efforts and ensuring controlled expenditures. He shared that he has optimally structured the idol production business, cutting costs significantly compared to larger firms.

With his sights set on leaving a mark in the industry, Lee Sang-min is determined not just to survive but to thrive, ensuring he won’t let his supporters down again as he strides forward in this new chapter of his career and life.