Comedian Lee Sugeun's wife, Park Jiyeon, will undergo a second kidney transplant. Fourteen years ago, she developed complications leading to kidney issues due to pregnancy-induced hypertension and has been battling health challenges since then.
According to OSEN's report on the 2nd, Park Jiyeon has completed the final tests for the transplant and is currently coordinating the surgery schedule. The donor is Park Jiyeon's biological brother, and the medical community explains that familial donations have a higher success rate due to lower chances of immune rejection than non-familial donations.
Park Jiyeon married Lee Sugeun in 2008 and has two sons. In the past, Lee Sugeun noted, "She was so popular that four comedians had already pursued her. I chased after her for six months," making her a topic of interest. The story of how they fell in love after dating while she worked as a stylist for Park Junhyung and accompanied him to Dongdaemun has been recounted on air, bringing laughter.
Park Jiyeon, known as a "dream wife" for possessing looks, personality, and ability, has showcased her affectionate support through her social media, posting about lunch boxes, parenting, and family trips, which has garnered a lot of support from fans. She has also drawn attention for her looks, resembling actress Yui, and her excellent cooking skills.
However, behind her bright and energetic appearance lies a long battle with health issues. In 2011, during her second pregnancy, she experienced pregnancy-induced hypertension, leading to worsened kidney function and eventually received a kidney transplant from her father. Despite this, her health did not fully recover, and she has been undergoing dialysis treatment for over ten years.
In 2021, after being advised by her medical team to consider a kidney transplant, she said, "The first surgery was so difficult that I firmly stated 'I won't do it,' but after discussing how advancements in technology and medication could improve my quality of life, I began to have many concerns," and reported that she applied for a waiting list for a brain-dead donor.
After about four years, Park Jiyeon has again decided to undergo surgery. Messages of support for her courage have been pouring in on her social media. Reactions include, "What an amazing person... My heart aches to learn there was such pain behind her always bright face," "Lee Sugeun is indeed a lucky husband. I hope the surgery goes well and she stays healthy," "Someone like Park Jiyeon is the true dream wife. I hope she recovers for her two sons," and "Her strength in quietly overcoming this is admirable."
Meanwhile, Park Jiyeon's surgery will take place this month, and depending on the outcome, she plans to undergo a recovery period before returning to her daily routine. Fans as well as fellow entertainers are sending warm encouragement, wishing for her to return in better health.
[Photo] Park Jiyeon's SNS
[OSEN]