Actor Kim Jung-tae's son, Ji-hoo, has been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome following a comprehensive psychological evaluation.
On the 6th, a pre-released video of TV Chosun's 'Dad and Me' on YouTube showed Kim Jung-tae, his wife, and their son Ji-hoo visiting a hospital.
The evaluation was part of the process to determine Ji-hoo's suitability for high school and dormitory life. Kim Jung-tae's wife explained, “Ji-hoo needs to go to high school, and he has always wanted to attend one with a dormitory, so we came to get a diagnosis.”
Ji-hoo was visibly anxious before the evaluation. He expressed, “I feel like hearing from the doctor will break my heart. I don't like someone else knowing about me.” In response, Kim Jung-tae and his wife reassured him, saying, “It's not a shocking consultation,” and “We're not here because you're sick, it's just a check-up.” However, Ji-hoo still felt burdened by the evaluation.
Upon arriving at the hospital, Ji-hoo underwent the evaluation and completed the tasks quickly. The doctor explained the results, stating, “It appears to be consistent with Asperger's.” The doctor added, “The issue will be whether Ji-hoo decides to disclose his Asperger's diagnosis.”
Asperger's syndrome is a type of autism spectrum disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction and communication, while intelligence and language development are relatively preserved.
The doctor also commented on Ji-hoo's performance during the evaluation. “We conducted various tests, and a few remarkable points stood out. Among the 7,000 to 8,000 cases, it's rare to see someone complete the tests so perfectly and quickly,” the doctor noted, describing Ji-hoo as a “genius in the top 0.5%.”
Kim Jung-tae was equally surprised by his son's results. Upon hearing the explanation of Ji-hoo being in the top 0.5%, he remarked, “I was very surprised.”
Meanwhile, TV Chosun's 'Dad and Me' airs every Wednesday at 10 PM.
Reporter: Kim Eun-jung, Ten Asia eun@tenasia.co.kr