On the evening of January 20, actor Kwon Sang Woo appeared on the YouTube channel Jjan-han hyung Shin Dong Yup to promote his upcoming movie, Hitman 2. During the interview, the beloved actor shared a deeply personal story about undergoing liver surgery to remove a tumor the size of a palm.
“I found out I had a hemangioma in my liver during a routine health check-up,” Kwon revealed. “The doctor showed me the scans and explained that surgery was necessary. They removed a piece of my liver the size of a palm.”
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Urgent Surgery Amid Family History
Kwon made the difficult decision to proceed with surgery urgently after consulting his doctor, especially given his family’s medical history. “My father passed away from liver cancer at an early age,” he said. “The doctor warned me that if the tumor grew beyond 10cm, it would require major surgery. At 6cm, they advised me to have it removed as soon as my schedule allowed.”
Overcoming Loneliness During Recovery
Kwon admitted that the surgery was one of the loneliest times in his life. “I had the operation alone while my wife and kids were in the United States,” he shared. “I didn’t want to burden them, so I quietly underwent the surgery. I stayed in the hospital for quite some time, and the loneliness was overwhelming.”
Despite having 30% of his liver removed, Kwon revealed that his liver remains the same size as an average person’s due to its unusually large size. After recovering, the resilient actor immediately resumed filming Hitman 2.
A Career of Perseverance
This is not the first health challenge Kwon Sang Woo has faced. In 2020, while filming an action scene for The Pirates: Goblin Flag, he ruptured his Achilles tendon. The injury required surgery and a lengthy recovery, further showcasing his ability to overcome hardships.
A Respected Star with Global Fame
Born in 1976, Kwon Sang Woo began his career as a fashion model before transitioning to acting in 2001 with a supporting role in Sweet Proposal. He skyrocketed to fame in 2003 with the iconic dramas Stairway to Heaven and My Tutor Friend, earning fans across Asia. Over the years, he has built a legacy as one of Korea’s most admired actors.
In 2008, Kwon married former Miss Korea runner-up and actress Son Tae Young. The couple shares two children, a son and a daughter. While Kwon works in Korea, his family resides in the United States, and he visits them whenever his schedule allows.
Fans React on Social Media
Fans flooded social media with messages of admiration and concern upon hearing Kwon Sang Woo’s story. Comments included:
- “He’s so strong for going through this alone. Wishing him the best of health!”
- “I can’t imagine how hard it must have been without his family by his side. Kwon Sang Woo, fighting!”
- “Such a resilient actor. He continues to inspire us with his dedication and courage.”
Conclusion
Kwon Sang Woo’s story highlights his resilience and strength, both as an individual and as a performer. Despite facing health challenges and personal struggles, the actor continues to shine in the entertainment industry, leaving fans eager to see him in Hitman 2.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For accurate medical advice, consult a healthcare professional.
