Lee Jaehoon Moves to the Countryside for His Daughter—A Story of Healing and Hustle
For Korean comedian Lee Jaehoon, the noise, pollution, and stress of city life had become too much—especially when it started impacting his young daughter's health. So, in a bold move that surprised many fans and friends, he left Seoul behind and relocated his family to Imsil, a rural town in North Jeolla Province.
What started as a personal decision for his daughter’s well-being evolved into something much bigger. Today, Lee runs a charming café featuring local specialties like the “Jeolla-donut,” a fusion treat that has made waves among both locals and tourists. His journey from the spotlight to the countryside has become a beacon for others dreaming of a lifestyle shift.
What Does Moving to the Countryside Really Mean?
In Korean, the term used is “gwichon” (귀촌), which translates to relocating from the city to live in a rural village or the countryside. For some, it’s about slowing down and reconnecting with nature. For others, like Lee, it’s a health-driven, quality-of-life decision. This move speaks to broader societal shifts now seen in the US as well—especially post-pandemic, as more people opt out of urban chaos in favor of simpler, more intentional living.
The Ups and Downs of Rural Life
Why Some People Love It
Life in the countryside can be a breath of fresh air—literally. With cleaner air, less noise, and more space, rural living often boosts both mental and physical health. Kids benefit, too, as they're free to play outside, explore nature, and grow up in a safer, slower-paced environment.
There’s also the potential for unique business opportunities. Lee’s café, for example, uses local ingredients to create innovative snacks. His “Jeolla-donut” connects tradition with creativity while giving back to the local economy.
Another perk? Family closeness. Without the hustle of daily traffic and long work hours, families have more quality time to spend together. That’s especially important for parents trying to be more present in their children’s lives.
But It’s Not Always Easy
That said, life in a small town isn't without challenges. Access to medical facilities and good schools can be limited. In America, this mirrors concerns found in rural regions like Appalachia or the Midwest, where services are spread out and less funded than in urban areas.
For someone used to Starbucks on every corner and same-day delivery, rural life might feel isolating. Social interaction can be hard to come by, especially for newcomers.
And then there's economic uncertainty. Launching a small business in an area with limited foot traffic is risky. Farming? Even more so. Nature’s unpredictability makes agricultural income unstable, and startup costs can be quite high.
Lee Jaehoon’s Rural Success Recipe
Despite the risks, Lee’s story is one of thoughtful preparation and full commitment. He didn’t just relocate—he integrated. Lee took time to understand the local community, partnered with farmers for ingredients, and built something the town could be proud of. His “Jeolla-donut” isn’t just tasty; it symbolizes the blend of tradition and innovation.
This kind of success serves as a model for others who may be considering a similar path. But Lee himself has noted in interviews that success wasn’t immediate. It took adapting, failing, tweaking, and a whole lot of humility.
So, Should You Consider It?
If you're dreaming of a slower-paced life with fewer sirens and more starry nights, moving to the countryside can be a game-changer. Whether it’s growing your own food, starting a local business, or simply having space for your kids to run around, rural life has countless rewards.
But it’s not for everyone. Lee’s story shows that the key to thriving in a new setting lies in meticulous planning, a growth mindset, and true dedication. Going rural without research or respect for the local way of life can lead to disappointment—and even community conflict.
Ultimately, Lee Jaehoon’s journey reveals that a well-prepared move to the countryside can enhance personal happiness, improve family relationships, and even revitalized a small-town economy. It may not be everyone's dream, but for some, the grass really is greener where the Wi-Fi is weaker.
