Kim Jong-kook on why he wants a son: 'I could raise him more freely'

Singer and entertainer Kim Jong-kook has candidly shared his thoughts on having children and his perspective as a future father for the first time since his marriage.

Known for his rigorous self-discipline and strict lifestyle, Kim previewed a firm educational philosophy for his future children, even drawing laughter by saying, "I already feel sorry [to them]."

On episode 353 of the tvN variety program "You Quiz on the Block," which aired on the 29th, Kim appeared to reveal stories about his married life, family, and childhood.

During the broadcast, Kim shared updates ahead of his first wedding anniversary, expressing his affection for his wife by noting he "needs to prepare a gift."

Describing his current married life as "feeling very stable," he naturally transitioned to the topic of children, adding, "It might be because we don't have a child yet. Once a child is born, we will face reality and the hardships of parenting."

When Yoo Jae Suk asked, "Don't people around you often say they want a daughter?" Kim gave an unexpected response.

"Whether it's a daughter or a son, it's good to have one. Since I am older."

However, Kim admitted, "People say daughters are so pretty, so I think I would be very cautious when raising one. But since I feel like I could raise a son more freely, I think a son might be a bit better."

It was a statement typical of Kim, whose strong image and strict personality were forged through intense exercise.

In response, Yoo predicted, "It probably won't be easy to be born as Jong-kook's son," prompting Kim to agree, "I haven't even been born yet, but I already feel a bit sorry," which elicited laughter.

He even left a message for his future child, saying, "Whether it's a son or a daughter, I'm doing this so you can do well, so don't resent me. I'm sorry. I apologize."

However, Kim's educational philosophy does not stem solely from strictness. The broadcast revealed how his upbringing shaped his sense of responsibility.

Kim, who is from Anyang, mentioned being nicknamed "Kim the Axe" during his school years. He laughed, saying, "If someone heard that, they would think I carried an axe to school," but revealed he actually grew up under his father's strict discipline.

His father, a former soldier, was very strict. Kim recalled, "My older brother was always ranked first in the whole school, while I had many complaints and wandered around. Still, because the house was so strict, I didn't cross certain lines."

He also boasted of a perfect 12-year attendance record throughout elementary, middle, and high school, noting, "Even if I left the house, I went to school," which drew laughter.

Kim remarked, "Home education is truly important. Even when I left the house, I had a friend bring my school uniform so I could go to school. School was my playground."

The influence of his father extended to his daily habits. Kim revealed a childhood where even listening to popular music at home was difficult.

He confessed, "My father wouldn't even let me watch TV much. My mother bought a more expensive TV without my father's permission, and she wasn't allowed to watch TV for a year."

He also described the intense atmosphere at home, saying, "When my father came home, if he thought the house wasn't clean, he would check for dust with his finger."

Hearing this, Yoo added, "It was an environment where Jong-kook couldn't have gone astray. I don't know if your child will be a son or a daughter, but the grandfather is no ordinary person either."

Kim started a new chapter of his life by marrying a non-celebrity last September. The wedding, hosted by Yoo, was a private ceremony attended only by close family and acquaintances, drawing significant public interest.

With his first public discussion of family plans and parenting philosophy, attention is focused on what the man known as the "Tiger Coach" will be like when he becomes a father.