Two of Korea's leading actors, Lee Soon-jae and Kang Boo-ja, faced rumors about health problems due to their advanced ages, but both dismissed them and reassured the public. Although their mobility is limited, waves of support continue for Lee Soon-jae and Kang Boo-ja, whose will and passion for acting remain unchanged.
Rumors about the health of Lee Soon-jae, the oldest active actor approaching 90, resurfaced recently after Park Geun-hyung's remark. However, Lee Soon-jae's side emphasized that the health rumors are not true.
According to close associates, Lee Soon-jae currently has weakened leg strength and has difficulty moving, and after an exhausting year of activities, he has been focusing on rehabilitation for 10 months. It is known that Lee Soon-jae has been having someone accept awards on his behalf and even refusing hospital visits because he does not want to be seen being supported by others as an actor.
A close associate repeatedly explained, "There is nothing wrong with his health. Considering his age, we judged it best for him to rest, and currently he simply has little strength in his legs and is focusing on rehabilitation, so the health rumors are not true at all." Lee Soon-jae, who received the honor of being the oldest recipient at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, is preparing a full comeback during this brief rest period.
Actor Kang Boo-ja, who turned 84 this year, also drew concern from fans after appearing recently on a broadcast while being supported. Kang Boo-ja appeared on KBS1's Morning Yard with the help of fellow actors, which fueled the health rumors.
But Kang Boo-ja firmly drew a line against such worries. After seeing a junior singer perform "Give Me Back My Youth," she said, "I don't know a song like 'Give Me Back My Youth.' I don't want to ask to have my youth back yet. Because I'm still youthful," and cheerfully dismissed the health rumors.
True to her words, Kang Boo-ja is still active. She is currently performing the play Mother and 2 Nights and 3 Days across the country, meeting audiences in various locations. Despite her age, she proves she is still active with tireless passion and a positive attitude.
We hope that Lee Soon-jae, who is focusing on rehabilitation for a while, and Kang Boo-ja, who remains on stage, will stay healthy and remain with the public for a long time.
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