Woman spends $60,000 on surgery to look like Kim Kardashian: 'I don't regret it'
Some fans will go to great lengths to be like their idol. In the case of Cherri Lee, she spent more than $60,000 (around P3.3M) on surgeries just to look like Kim Kardashian.
This South Korean woman, born with the name Hanbyeol, grew up watching the reality star and always wanted to be like her.
"I always wanted the glamorous big boobs and big bum Kardashian look. Kim has always been an inspiration to me and she's the most beautiful woman in the world in my eyes," Lee told South West News Service.
To achieve the Kardashian's iconic look, Lee underwent 15 surgeries, including three Brazillian butt lifts, two breast augmentations, and several facial reconstruction jobs. The part-time English teacher first had surgery at the age of 20 to get double eyelids. Now, 28, Lee has a 34GGG cup size and the signature Kardashian booty.
Lee said that her appearance has changed so much, that people don't believe she's from Korea anymore.
"I actually look like a completely different person now than I did before. I'm western-looking and some of my Korean family don't even recognize me anymore," she said.
"I know this might upset many people, but I was never really a fan of Oriental looks. I didn't like how I looked before, but I'm really happy now."
A tough breakup in the early 2010s prompted Lee to change her appearance. She got "addicted to surgeries," saying she saw "positive changes" when she switched up her look.
"I would get a buzz when I would wake up in excruciating pain and then see myself afterwards it would be my reward."
For now, she's done with surgery but said she doesn't regret a single procedure.
Kim K on the streets
Reactions have been mixed, according to Lee. She's had men ask for her number, which she hates, and people stop and give her compliments. On the other end, Lee said that a lady once mistook her for a sex worker.
"I don't let it affect me. If you have nothing nice to say, jog on. Everybody should have the right to modify their body—do what you want, as long as you're not harming anyone," the 28-year-old said.
"I think Kim is the most beautiful woman and to be compared to her is amazing. My confidence is through the roof, I'm so much happier now than when I was younger. It was 100% worth it. My only regret is why didn't I do it sooner."