"A year has already passed since former footballer Kang Jiyong, who appeared as the husband of a football couple on the "divorce reflection camp," suddenly died, prompting sorrow."
April 22, 2026, is the first anniversary of the late former footballer Kang Jiyong. The deceased passed away on April 22 last year. He was 37.
While the cause of death has not been disclosed, former footballer Koo Bonsang announced the obituary on social media, bringing the news of the death to light.
The late Kang Jiyong, who was drafted by Pohang Steelers in the 2009 K League draft, played for Bucheon FC 1955, Gangwon FC and Incheon United before ending his playing career in the K3 League in 2022.
He married a woman two years his senior and they had one daughter. In their third year of marriage, he appeared on the "divorce reflection camp." A former elite footballer, he said that before marriage his earnings exceeded 500 million won and that his in-laws managed all the money.
At the time, the late Kang Jiyong said he was working at a chemical manufacturing plant after retirement, earning 3 million won a month, and complained of pain, saying, "My wish is to die in my sleep. The desire to die is so great that preparations are ready in the car. Because the stress is so severe, I was living diligently, but that will was broken." His wife said she was shocked that Kang Jiyong threatened with death, and the couple surprised everyone by reconciling after overcoming financial conflicts and reaffirming their affection.
However, the late Kang Jiyong died two months after appearing on the "divorce reflection camp," causing shock. Professor Lee Hosen, who counseled the couple, said, "We mourn someone who lived passionately and intensely and left tragically after living kindly. I pray for the remaining family. At the end of tears, I pray for hope. RIP."
After the sudden death, several rumors were raised. In response, the late Kang Jiyong's wife said, "Come talk to me in front of me. If you are curious, boldly show your face and ask. Before you blow everything up," expressing her displeasure. Later she asked, "One request, please refrain from speculation about our three-person family," and said, "I believe the truth will surely be revealed. If distortions or exaggerations of facts continue, I must make clear that we will inevitably take legal action."
Clubs the late Kang Jiyong had been with, including Pohang Steelers, also expressed condolences and shared their sorrow over his death.
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