Han Da-gam, 45, embraces 'oldest expectant mother' label
South Korean actress Han Da-gam has announced that she is expecting her first child at the age of 45.
In a heartfelt letter posted on Instagram, the actress—formerly known as Han Eun-jung—shared that she became pregnant in her sixth year of marriage, describing the moment as both emotional and deeply meaningful after decades in the entertainment industry.
“I think this is the first time I have posted with such deep emotion and sentiment throughout my long acting career,” she wrote. “I debuted in my 20s and ran forward busily, only looking ahead. I got married at 41, and this year, in my sixth year of marriage, I have become pregnant by the blessing of heaven.”
Han, whose acting credits include "Full House," "Seoul 1945," "Graceful Friends," " Successful Story of a Bright Girl," and "Two Guys," admitted she is still processing the news.
“I still can't believe it, but it is true,” she said. “I have become the oldest expectant mother in the entertainment industry!!!”
The actress added that she chose to publicly share her pregnancy to mark what she described as a “grateful and miraculous moment,” noting with humor that she may currently be the oldest expectant mother among actresses in the Korean entertainment industry.
She revealed that her pregnancy was achieved through in vitro fertilization (IVF), sharing details of the process and the preparation that led to her successful conception.
In her Instagram letter, Han expressed deep gratitude for what she described as a long-awaited blessing later in life. “I am so, so grateful for the great blessing and gift you have given me at this late stage,” she said. The actress disclosed that after completing a stage play last year, she proactively sought medical guidance and carefully prepared for the procedure. “I wanted to achieve the best possible results, so I visited the hospital in advance and prepared meticulously. Thanks to my efforts, I thankfully succeeded in IVF on my very first attempt,” she added.
According to Mayo Clinic, IVF involves retrieving mature eggs from the ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the uterus, where pregnancy develops. A full cycle typically takes two to three weeks, though the process may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Han also credited her long-standing commitment to health and fitness as a contributing factor. “I think the fact that I have worked out diligently and made every effort to manage my diet for so many years has been of great help,” she said, adding that she has already passed the more delicate stage of pregnancy. She noted that she has resumed her usual exercise routine and continues to manage her broadcasting schedule.
Acknowledging the public’s reaction, Han admitted she is still coming to terms with the news herself. “You must have been very surprised, right? I still can't quite believe it myself,” she said. “I feel like the time has truly come for me to step into my second life. It is a feeling I have never experienced before.”
As she embraces this new chapter, the actress vowed to take extra care of her health. “As the oldest expectant mother, I will exercise even harder, take better care of myself, and be extra careful,” she said, adding that she expects to welcome her baby in the fall. Han concluded by thanking fans and supporters for their warm congratulations.