Actor Lee Dong-gun Diagnosed with Rare 1% Illness, Fans Express Concern

Actor Lee Dong-gun has sparked concern among fans with the news of his diagnosis with a rare illness affecting only 1% of the population.

The SBS entertainment program 'My Little Old Boy,' aired on the 21st, featured Lee Dong-gun visiting a hospital.

He complained of eye abnormalities, stating, "The symptoms occur about five times a month." The broadcast revealed his severely bloodshot, bright red eyes, astonishing viewers.

While consulting with a specialist, Lee Dong-gun expressed extreme pain, saying, "It hurts as if being stabbed with a needle just by breathing." After the examination, the specialist revealed, "This is a rare disease that affects only 1% of our population," sending shockwaves through the studio.

The sudden diagnosis has amplified worries about Lee Dong-gun's health condition.

Meanwhile, Lee Dong-gun is raising his daughter Roa following his divorce from actress Jo Yoon-hee in 2020. He recently ventured into the cafe business and also garnered attention for dating rumors with actress Kang Hae-rim, who is 16 years his junior. As neither party denied the rumors, it was widely perceived as an effective public acknowledgment of their relationship.

Upon hearing the unexpected news of his rare illness, fans have been sending messages of concern and support, such as "We hope for a speedy recovery" and "We cheer you on to overcome this difficult time."

Lee Dong-gun initially debuted in 1998 as a member of the hip-hop duo 'Rhapsodya' but did not gain significant attention. He later began his acting career in earnest with the sitcom 'New Nonstop' in 2001, achieving stardom. He married actress Jo Yoon-hee, whom he met on the drama 'Laurel Tree Tailors' in 2017, but they announced their divorce in 2020.