Song Il Kook shares updates on triplets' puberty and eating habits

The three sons of Song Il Kook—Dae Han, Min Guk, and manse—who captured the nation's heart on 'The Return of Superman,' are now in their second year of middle school. The triplets, who charmed viewers with their adorable behavior as children, are now navigating puberty, presenting a new kind of parenting challenge for Song Il Kook.

Appearing on KBS Cool FM's 'Park Myung Soo's Radio' on September 28, Song shared updates on the triplets, revealing, "Since all three children are in their second year of middle school, I live day by day praying." As all three children hit puberty simultaneously, he explained that he is experiencing a level of parenting stress entirely different from when they were young. Hearing this, Park Myung Soo joked, "It's better to suffer all at once," drawing laughter.

The triplets' television appearances were not without initial hesitation. Song revealed that when they appeared on 'The Return of Superman,' his wife, judge Jung Seung Yeon, opposed the idea until the end. She was concerned about the privacy of their home and family life, as well as the potential impact of broadcasting on young children.

Ultimately, Song decided to join the program after receiving advice from actor Yoo Dong Geun. Yoo persuaded him, saying, "It will be possible to show the good sides." By appearing on the program with the triplets from 2014 to 2016, the family became instant national stars. Even at a young age, Dae Han, Min Guk, and manse enjoyed a level of popularity akin to a "triplet syndrome" by showcasing their unique personalities.

As for the triplets today, Song unexpectedly revealed that one of his three sons is a "big eater" just like him. However, to protect the child's privacy, he did not disclose which son it was. He added, "If the kids' friends see this on a broadcast, they capture it and show it to them. Then I get harassed at home for an entire week," which brought laughter.

He also mentioned that food is the most frequent cause of marital conflict in his household. Song explained, "Two of them take after their mother and eat in a style where they save up a bit, but the one who resembles me has to eat as soon as he sees food." He continued, "The reason the house is in chaos every day is because of food," and confessed, "Almost 99% of the arguments I have with my wife are because of eating."

Song, who married Jung in 2008, welcomed Dae Han, Min Guk, and manse in 2012. The triplets, who showed their innocent sides in front of the camera over a decade ago, are now entering a new stage of life. While it is a difficult period—as Song expressed by saying he "lives day by day praying"—it is a natural transition for a family that once shared their growth on screen to now prioritize the children's privacy.