Why did Choi Sung-bong pass out? South Korean singer diagnosed with cancer assures fans he'll be careful
South Korean singer Choi Sung-bong, who continues to battle cancer recently passed out not once, but twice within the same week. Following the health scare last week, Choi is reassuring fans that he is OK but noted that he is still experiencing dizziness and nausea. Choi gained popularity when he appeared as 'Korea's Paul Potts' with a powerful debut performance on 'Korea's Got Talent' in 2011. Choi took the title of the winner on Season 1 of the series.
He's had cancer for approximately a year now, as he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, prostate cancer and thyroid cancer in May 2020.
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As per an article by Aju.News, Choi’s agency Bongbong Company spoke of his health status earlier this year, saying, “Sung-Bong Choi is still struggling with various cancers after undergoing two surgeries on January 13." They added, “According to doctors, he still needs several treatments to prevent metastasis to a critical state again.”
At the time, the singer expressed, “I know that gratitude in words cannot fully convey my gratitude to those who count me, and your encouragement and support messages reminded me of my reason to live." He has remained strong in his battle against cancer and also said, “I think there is work to be done, and I want to deliver a message of hope to more people around the world through my own voice and song.”
A fundraising team of Patricia Lee and Team Sungbong have organized a GoFundMe campaign with a goal to collect $90,000 to 'Support Orphan Singer Sungbong Choi's Medical Fund'. An update on the platform on February 1 explains why Choi is not eligible for the country’s national health insurance program.
Why did he pass out?
According to Allkpop, the singer passed out on February 8 and February 13 and had to be rushed to the hospital. Choi says the reason for him losing consciousness is because "I think I took too many painkillers while working on the upcoming album." He explained, "I lost consciousness during the practice and when I opened my eyes again I was in the hospital. I was told I received medical treatments for about 4 hours including CPR and gastric lavage."
He then also apologized to fans for not prioritizing his health: "You have to be alive first before you can be happy or do whatever you want. You only live once. I have been grateful for being alive after I was told I will die soon when I was a child. But I'm sorry to those who support me because I feel like I have not been prioritizing my health."
Choi continued, "I was told I could pass out again. I'm still feeling dizziness and nausea, so I think I would have to be readmitted to the hospital. I will be extra cautious because I stopped breathing for a bit - though I made it back." He then concluded by explaining that he will be mindful of his health in future but also assured fans he is still working on his long-awaited comeback album. The project was scheduled for early March, but he decided to postpone its release. "I'll take better care of my health while diligently working on the upcoming release."