Son Yeon-jae Sparks Debate by Sharing Baby Talk Video
Former rhythmic gymnast Son Yeon-jae recently shared a video of her infant son babbling on social media. The clip, set inside her luxurious home in Itaewon—reportedly worth around $5.3 million—showed tender moments between mother and child. Many viewers were touched by the baby’s adorable gestures and Son’s loving parenting style.
But alongside the praise came controversy. While the baby’s face wasn’t shown, some critics voiced concern over the little one’s privacy and the broader implications of parents sharing their children’s lives online.
Celebrating Parenthood or Crossing a Line?
The Upside: Real Moments, Real Connection
Son’s video offers a rare look into the everyday life of a well-known public figure, helping fans feel more connected to the woman they once watched compete on world stages. Rather than see her solely as a celebrity, fans now see her as a mother—tender, patient, and just as sleep-deprived as the rest of us.
This kind of content can be especially comforting for new parents. Seeing someone like Son engage with the challenges and joys of raising a baby may help normalize their own experience. It also sheds light on child development—from recognizing hand movements to early attempts at speech—which can reassure other parents that their own child is on track.
Sociologists have noted that when public figures open up about their personal lives, it can foster empathy and a stronger emotional bond with their followers. For Son, this might translate to stronger fan loyalty and a more authentic public image.
The Downside: Privacy Concerns and Overexposure
Still, many critics argue that children—especially infants who cannot consent—should not be used as content, regardless of how innocent the intent. While Son avoided showing her son's face, details about their home and daily activities may still infringe on the child’s right to privacy.
Over time, what begins as a sweet family moment can morph into a concerning trend. With the rise of monetized family influencers, even well-intentioned posts may open doors to exploitation or unwanted attention. This is especially true when content is reshared or misused on platforms beyond the parent’s control.
International examples offer some cautionary tales. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow and activist Leonardo DiCaprio have both spoken about feeling uneasy with how their childhoods were exposed to media attention. Once a child’s identity is online, reclaiming privacy becomes nearly impossible.
Striking the Right Balance
Son’s attempt at sharing her motherhood journey is understandable—and even admirable. Parenting can be isolating, particularly for women balancing public life with personal responsibilities. Offering glimpses into her life may encourage open conversations and decrease the pressure to portray perfection.
But the internet never forgets. That’s why more public figures are reevaluating how much they expose of their children. Some opt for back-of-the-head shots or nickname-only references—not to be secretive, but to give their kids the choice of online presence later in life.
The key isn't to avoid sharing altogether, but to consider the long-term impact. Ask: is this photo or video something my child would thank me for when they turn 16? If not, perhaps it's better kept in private circles.
Ultimately, this debate isn’t just about Son Yeon-jae. It's about how modern parents—famous or not—navigate the blurry line between connection and protection in an always-online world.
