In the April 23 episode of tvN STORY's 'Parenting Intern', retired football star Ahn Jung-hwan met Lee Ye-rim, the wife of a current player. He asked her bluntly: 'Can you handle parenting? You will, right? Do you have a plan?'
Ahn reflected on his own wife, Lee Hye-won, saying: 'The wife of an athlete has it hard.' He noted how unfamiliar Lee Ye-rim seemed with childcare, mirroring his own family's early challenges.
Lee Ye-rim, married to footballer Lee Seung-woo, admitted she felt overwhelmed. Ahn shared that his wife had similarly struggled alone while he was away for matches and training.
The conversation highlighted the unseen burden on athletes' spouses. Ahn emphasized that support systems are often missing, leaving wives to manage both home and children solo.
Fans praised Ahn for his honesty. The episode aired at a time when many Korean sports families face similar isolation due to demanding schedules.