Kim Jae-joong's Father Reveals Past Struggle with 'Shinbyeong' (Spiritual Affliction)

During a recent episode of KBS2's 'The Manager,' Kim Jae-joong's father shared a deeply personal story about experiencing 'shinbyeong,' a spiritual affliction, in the past.

The broadcast on September 19th featured a 'Mom's Hand Special' episode dedicated to traditional Chuseok dishes.

Kim Jae-joong's father recounted his early life, stating he was born into wealth and enjoyed a prosperous youth running a transportation business, even being the wealthiest man in Cheongyang at one point. However, a joint venture in a gas station business with acquaintances ended in failure, leaving him with massive debt.

Following the business failure, his mental state deteriorated significantly. "My mind just snapped," he confessed. "Everyone thought I was crazy. Like a madman, I didn't recognize people around me and they called me a lunatic."

His mother further explained that the stress led her to suffer from extreme anger, depression, and even delirium. She revealed that her husband's condition was diagnosed as 'shinbyung' after the business collapsed, a spiritual possession that intensified when he refused to fully embrace it. Friends and family were concerned, with some suggesting he go to a temple for peace.

Left to raise their nine children alone, his mother became emotional recalling the hardships. "I couldn't even die if I wanted to, and with so many children crying 'Mom, I'm hungry,' I had to feed them somehow," she said. She resorted to selling ginseng and snacks, facing difficulties with street vendors and stall fees. She tearfully remembered a moment when her husband, despite their struggles, bought her a bowl of warm soup, a gesture that deeply touched her and offered a glimmer of support.

Kim Jae-joong debuted as a member of the iconic group TVXQ and has since carved out a successful solo music career. He has also expanded his artistic endeavors into acting, delivering memorable performances in various dramas and films. Jae-joong maintains a strong connection with his global fanbase through his active presence on social media and his personal YouTube channel.