Veteran Actor Yang Taek-jo Reveals Battle with Cancer and Near-Death Experience
A remarkable story of resilience is unfolding as veteran South Korean actor Yang Taek-jo shares details of his recent health struggles, including a liver cancer diagnosis and a previously reported three-month life expectancy, and his subsequent recovery. The 86-year-old actor will discuss his journey on TV Chosun’s “Perfect Life,” airing at 8 PM on Thursday, offering a candid look at his fight for health.
For the past two years, Yang Taek-jo had stepped back from public life due to declining health. He described meaningful digestive issues, stating, “I had problems with my intestines, so I couldn’t digest it, and it took me 4-5 days to go to the bathroom once.” This led to a weight loss of over 7 kilograms and a debilitating loss of energy, prompting a sense of urgency. “I felt like I had to go now,” he explained. Despite these challenges, he expressed gratitude for his current state, noting, “Two years ago, I thought everything was over, but I recovered and am here today. Just talking like this is something I can’t do without energy.”
Yang Taek-jo’s health battles extend back decades. He revealed he was diagnosed with diabetes in 1998, which ultimately led to severe liver cirrhosis. In 2005, he faced a grim prognosis. “I was hospitalized with liver cirrhosis and was told I only had three months to live,” he recounted. The situation became critical, resulting in him coughing up blood and collapsing.
A selfless offer from his son provided a potential path to recovery. “My son told me to get a transplant surgery because he would give me his liver,” Yang Taek-jo shared, deeply moved.Though initially hesitant, preparations were made for the procedure, which ultimately lasted 19 hours. The emotional impact of his son’s sacrifice was profound. “After he regained consciousness,I saw my son with his nose bridged and I cried so hard,” he said.
Yang Taek-jo began his career as a radio voice actor for Dongyang Broadcasting in 1966, following in the footsteps of his parents, Yang Baek-myeong, a renowned theater veteran, and actress Moon Jeong-bok. his story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering bonds of family.
News Report Summary:
Who: Veteran South Korean actor Yang Taek-jo, 86, is the subject of this report.His son also plays a crucial role in his recovery.
What: Yang Taek-jo recently battled liver cancer after decades of health issues stemming from diabetes and subsequent liver cirrhosis. He was initially given a three-month life expectancy.
Why: The actor’s health declined substantially over the past two years, leading to digestive problems, weight loss, and a loss of energy. His initial diagnosis of diabetes in 1998 ultimately led to the more severe liver condition.
How did it end?: Yang Taek-jo underwent a 19-hour liver transplant surgery, with his son selflessly donating his liver. The surgery was prosperous, and the actor is now recovering and grateful for a second chance at life. He will share his story on TV Chosun’s “Perfect Life” on Thursday.
