Kim Jae-joong's Family's Shocking Past Revealed on 'Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant'

A dramatic family history, previously unknown even to Kim Jae-joong, is set to unfold on the upcoming episode of KBS 2TV's 'Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant' (hereafter 'Fun-Staurant').

The show's 'Mom's Hand Special' episode, airing on the 19th, will feature the singer preparing a special dish with his mother, tied to cherished family memories.

During the broadcast, Kim Jae-joong's parents will candidly share a shocking past that has been kept secret from their son. In a VCR segment, Kim Jae-joong expresses concern over his mother's worsening ankle condition, following previous hip and knee surgeries. His father blames himself, lamenting, "I promised I wouldn't let her lift a finger in the kitchen, but I am a sinner to my wife."

His mother then reveals how his father, who was once wealthy, suffered a devastating business failure. This sudden bankruptcy left the family drowning in debt amounting to 100 million Korean Won (approximately $75,000 USD), a situation Kim Jae-joong was too young to remember.

Adding to the revelation, his mother shares that his father experienced a severe mental breakdown, described as 'spiritual illness,' after the financial ruin. Faced with immense debt and nine children to feed, Kim Jae-joong's mother took on various jobs, from street vending to working in restaurants, single-handedly clearing the massive debt. Witnessing this first-hand, Kim Jae-joong becomes emotional, shedding tears alongside his mother.

The deeply moving episode, highlighting Kim Jae-joong's filial piety and his family's resilience, airs on the 19th at 8:30 PM KST on KBS 2TV.

Kim Jae-joong debuted with the group TVXQ in 2003, becoming a global phenomenon in K-pop. He has since built a successful solo music career, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Beyond music, he has also established himself as an actor and variety show personality, maintaining a strong international fanbase.