Triplets Born Months Early Are Now Thriving After Spending Nearly 3 Months in NICU

In March 2023, South Korean couple Kim Hansol and Min Deokgi welcomed their lives’ greatest challenge and joy when they became parents to triplets. Born prematurely at just 28 weeks, the trio—named Se-eun, Se-ah, and Se-hee—each weighed approximately 2.2 lbs at birth. Their arrival marked the beginning of a whirlwind journey through parenthood, one filled with struggles and remarkable milestones.

After their early delivery via cesarean section, the newborns were immediately taken to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). As they battled to thrive outside the womb, the couple faced the daunting reality of their fragile health. Se-eun was eventually discharged 51 days later, followed by Se-ah at 56 days and Se-hee after 74 days, a time characterised by anxious waiting and hope.

During their initial hospital stays, each child required special medical treatments, including the use of eye patches and oxygen devices. Hansol expressed her heartache when reflecting on their early days, noting that the reality of their children at the time fell far short of her expectations. “They weren’t the babies I had imagined,” she admitted, highlighting the unique struggles of preterm parenthood.

The couple’s decision to pursue in-vitro fertilisation was initially thought to result in twins, but they were surprised to learn of a third gestational sac. While doctors advised selective reduction for safety, Hansol was determined to continue her pregnancy, a choice that reflects the couple’s commitment to their growing family.

Despite the joys of raising triplets, the challenges have been immense. In the early months, the couple calculated that they went through over 1,000 diapers, while also managing the complexities of feeding three infants. To keep track of each baby’s unique formula—a necessity for their different dietary needs—Hansol and Deokgi employed a strategy of posting notes on their fridge as a reference guide.

The emotional toll of parenthood has been compounded by frequent hospital visits, with the couple and their children facing up to 20 appointments per month for various specialised treatments, including paediatric, ophthalmology, and rehabilitation services. Both Se-ah and Se-hee were diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia, a condition that can lead to complications such as ankle stiffness. They began rehabilitation services at just 100 days old and continue to attend therapy sessions to this day.

Financially, raising triplets has its own barriers. While they have benefitted from government support available in South Korea, the aid is set to expire after five years and four months. The couple expressed concern about the potential costs of ongoing treatment and support, voicing a need for flexible extensions tailored to the developmental requirements of multiple children. “Insurance products for multiples are essential,” they stated, reflecting the nature of their ever-evolving family needs.

Yet, amidst the trials, the couple has found profound joy in the little moments that parenthood brings. “Recently, the three stood in a line and sang, ‘Dad, be strong,’ which moved me to tears,” recalled Deokgi, a moment he described as a balm for the fatigue of parenting. For Hansol, witnessing her children giggle and interact with each other is a cherished sight, revealing the deep bonds already forming among the siblings.

Raising their daughters has presented Kim Hansol and Min Deokgi with extraordinary challenges, but it has also unearthed a well of resilience and joy. The couple reflect with gratitude on their journey thus far, embracing each new experience with their triplets. As they navigate the road ahead, their experiences resonate with many parents enduring similar struggles, underscoring the strength that lies in family ties and love.