Original Source (Chosun Ilbo via Naver News): Kim Woo Bin, "When diagnosed with cancer, they said the shortest life expectancy was 6 months...it was really scary."
Kim Woo Bin appeared on Shin Dong Yup's YouTube channel 'Zzan Bro' with Kim Sung Kyun to promote their new film, 'Officer Black Belt.' During their appearance, Kim Woo Bin opened up about his journey navigating nasopharyngeal cancer.
Zzan Bro's concept is planned around having a conversation with guests over drinks. Shin Dong Yup shared that Kim Woo Bin does not drink a lot of alcohol. Kim Woo Bin shared that during treatment, he did not drink any alcohol. When he reached the five-year mark, he drank one beer in celebration of Alienoid's premiere. He was told by his medical professionals that his exams looked good, so now he occasionally drinks when he travels or has other celebrations.
Shin Dong Yup also commented that he was really taken aback when he learned that Kim Woo Bin was sick because he didn't make it known that he was undergoing treatment, nor did he do any interviews at that time. Shin Dong Yup added that he's familiar with chemotherapy and radiation because his own mother underwent cancer treatment. Kim Woo Bin commented that he's naturally a pretty positive person so he is the type of personality where he will try to see the positive no matter the situation.
He shared that, like a drama, he was at the hospital, and they told him, "In the worst-case scenario, you have six months left to live." So he was really surprised and also scared, hoping it was a dream. He said that he had never once thought, "What happens if I can't beat this [cancer]?" He saw it as an opportunity. He didn't immediately think like this, but while he was receiving treatment, he reflected and thought about how he hadn't rested for over 10 years since his debut because he was busy. He thought of it as him being presented with an opportunity to rest and spend time with his family and loved ones.
He also acknowledged the overpouring support and prayers he received because he's a public figure. He commented that he believes that the support and prayers gave him strength during his treatment. The hospital was surprised because it was evident that he was making good progress with his treatment.
1. [+737 / -9] He is an icon of hope for cancer patients. Please be healthy for a long, long time.
2. [+397 / -4] Kim Woo Bin is famous for his donations and good deeds - while on his way to his next schedule, he kept seeing a banner for the missing person, Song Hye Hee. He felt bad while seeing the banner, and when he learned about the death of Song Hye Hee's father, he sent a floral tribute to the funeral, hoping he is in a better place... (t/n: the disappearance of Song Hye Hee is really unfortunate, she's been missing for 25 years. Her father was really active in the search of his missing daughter but unfortunately passed away a few weeks ago due to a car accident. His wife took her own life in 2006. Kim Woo Bin sent a floral tribute to the father's funeral service and even his agency didn't know about it. I'll translate the article soon. You can read more about Song Hye Hee and her father's recent passing here.)
3. [+90 / -6] You're going to get healthier, fighting!
4. [+44 / -0] Big congratulations on fully recovering from the cancer. I'm always supporting you.
5. [+30 / -1] I think there were good results from the combination of him having a positive mindset in the midst of hard times and receiving prayers from those who love him. Even having the feelings of wanting to return the love he received... He's such a mature person. I hope he continues to be healthy and actively promotes... ^^
6. [+22 / -0] I've liked Kim Woo Bin in the past but I really like that we get to see him recover well and be healthy like this. A bit ago, I watched 'Officer Black Belt' and choked up a few times.. ^^ How do I say this, you can feel the sincerity in his gaze. Thank you for returning as a cool actor with depth ^^ He said something similar during his appearance on 'You Quiz on the Block.' Even then, I thought he was a good person. I'll be doing similar prayers. I hope more miracles occur for more families ^^
