“Looking at the screen...I can see three embryos.”

Lim Jimyeong, 35 years old, and Jang Eunhyuk, 34 years old, a couple living in Sejong City, still remember the day they learned the results of their six-week pregnancy ultrasound. Their two-year-old triplets—Hada (son), Hari (daughter), and Hao (son)—were an “unexpected gift.” In the early days of their marriage, Mr. Jang had considered becoming a DINK couple, a couple without children, but after persistent persuasion from his wife, a kindergarten teacher who loves children, he reluctantly agreed to “have just one child.” Little did they know, three children would arrive at once.

On the 20th, the family of Im Ji-myeong and Jang Eun-hyeok sits on a sofa at their home in Sejong City, smiling. From left in the photo: Im, second daughter Hari, third son Hao, husband Jang Eun-hyeok, and first son Hada. Photo by Shin Hyun-jong

The couple had already decided names for their first child: Hada if it was a son, Hari if a daughter. But with the unexpected triplets, they added a third name, Hao.

The couple first met in 2019. A mutual acquaintance suggested to Ms. Lim, who worked in Sejong City, “There’s a friend who opened a pharmacy in Buyeo—why don’t you meet them?” Both were considering marriage. Though they didn’t plan to start dating immediately, they began seeing each other a week after their first meeting. Mr. Jang’s sincerity shone through. After closing his pharmacy at 8 p.m., he would rush to Sejong to meet Ms. Lim. They would share brief dates and return home between 1–2 a.m., repeating this grueling routine.

They were a classic “liberal arts woman” and “science major man.” Their personalities, thoughts, and communication styles differed, yet their conversations flowed effortlessly. Ms. Lim would talk about her students and colleagues, while Mr. Jang shared stories of elderly customers at his pharmacy. Even trivial topics could last for hours. Convinced that life with this person would be joyful, they promised to marry just one month into dating and became husband and wife in November 2020.

Though they shared many similarities, their views on children differed. Initially, Mr. Jang had little desire for children, feeling burdened by the responsibility of raising another life. However, after months of persuasion from his wife, they agreed to have one child. During infertility treatment, they received the surprise of triplets.

Born in May 2023, the triplets are fraternal and each unique in appearance and personality. The eldest, Hada, is bright and energetic, always giggling and affectionate. The second, Hari, is quiet but diligent. If her brother or sister is missing, she asks, “Where did they go?” and looks for them. The youngest, Hao, is a “scholar type” who fixates on one thing until he masters it. He already knows the names of his favorite animals and enjoys playing with toys alone. With such strong personalities, the house is never quiet.

Raising triplets was far from easy. Before their first birthdays, every moment felt like a battle. Ms. Lim, on parental leave, spent a year in Gwangju Metropolitan City, her parents’ hometown, relying on her mother’s help. Fortunately, as the children grew, things improved. They now adapt well to daycare and play role-playing games together. This has brought some relief to the couple and positive changes.

Mr. Jang, who once did not want children, said, “Now I can’t even imagine what life would have been like without them.” His happiest moments are when the triplets run to him, saying, “Daddy, I love you,” and cling to his knees. Recently, he has gone as far as advising friends, “You must have children,” emphasizing the unique joy children bring.

Ms. Lim reflected, “Parenting isn’t just about children growing—it’s also about parents growing together.” Having children allowed her to rethink her perspectives and mature further. She added, “Emotions I might have overlooked if I were alone are now refined through my children.” She realized, “At first, I thought parents give more love to their children, but now I know the love I receive from them is far greater.”

Lately, the house is filled with laughter thanks to the affectionate children. Ms. Lim said, “When I wear new clothes, the kids immediately say, ‘Mom, this is so pretty.’ Those small compliments give me pride and happiness.”

Ms. Lim also grew closer to her parents because of the children. She recalled, “When I was young, my father wasn’t very family-oriented.” But after the grandchildren’s birth, he transformed completely. He used to stay silent even when at home, but now he proactively asks, “Let me turn on the air conditioner—when will you and the kids arrive?” He takes the children for walks, letting them ride on his shoulders in turns. The family was surprised by this new side of him. Ms. Lim said, “Thanks to the kids, I now have more conversations with my parents and understand them better.”

**This article is a joint project by the Committee on Low Birth Rate and Aging Society and The Chosun Ilbo. Related content is available on the Committee’s YouTube channel. Those who wish to share stories about the happiness children have brought can send their experiences to the Committee at betterfuture@korea.kr.**

*※ This article has been translated by Upstage Solar AI.*

Triplets Turn DINK Dad Into Childbirth Advocate