Korean singer Baek Ki-sung has revealed his struggle with sudden hearing loss.
On the October 27th episode of TV Chosun's 'Joseon's Love', Baek Ki-sung shared updates on his condition after being diagnosed with sudden hearing loss.
Baek appeared healthier, having gained 10kg, but shared, "Everything is better except my hearing. I've visited four hospitals, seeking the best treatment for hearing loss."
Previously, Baek was diagnosed with sudden hearing loss after experiencing symptoms of deafness in his right ear following eight consecutive days of trying to conceive with his wife.
Baek, who has been unable to hear for three months, confessed, "If it doesn't improve in six months, I might be diagnosed with a disability. They say I might need a cochlear implant or hearing aid."
Kim Gook-jin commented, "With a cochlear implant, sounds may initially seem mechanical, requiring about a year to adjust." Kang Soo-ji expressed concern, noting, "As a singer, it would be uncomfortable to sing."
Baek's wife, Lee Eun-bi, has been preparing various health foods to aid his recovery, including frog juice and cornelian cherry. She even purchased dried bullfrogs, centipedes, and loaches from the market to make nutritious meals.
Baek reflected, "I didn't expect the hearing loss to last this long. I thought it was temporary and felt a bit scared. I debuted at 22 and performed for 7-8 years without a break. This hearing loss feels like a signal to rest."
He continued, "I used to think a singer's career ends when their vocal cords fail, but it's not true. To produce beautiful sounds, you need to hear them. I can't remember what it was like to hear from both sides."
Baek expressed, "I didn't realize the value of hearing from both sides. If my hearing returns, I want to cherish and protect it." His wife offered, "Since you need music, I'll give you my cochlear implant," which led to a marital dispute.
Baek reassured her, "I can't live with the guilt of taking your implant. I can stop making music," comforting his concerned wife.
By Eun Jung Kim, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr