‘Trot Song Hye-kyo’ Jeong Mi-ae, who broke too early

‘Song Hye-kyo of the trot world’ Jeong Mi-ae’s career as a singer began with her senior Jang Yoon-jeong’s recommendation to debut. Four years ago, she gained syndrome popularity on TV Chosun's 'Miss Trot' and has continued to be active in albums and entertainment shows. Jeong Mi-ae, who had been walking the flower path like that, lost her strength overnight. Announced the news of his battle with cancer.

Jung Mi-ae, who suddenly announced a hiatus in December 2021, will reveal her current status after being diagnosed with stage 3 tongue cancer through KBS 1TV's 'Human Theater', which will air on the 30th.

Jeong Mi-ae, who met the 'Human Theater' team, revealed that the inflammation in her mouth had been bothering her for several months without getting better, so she went to the hospital and was diagnosed with stage 3 tongue cancer. As a result, Jung Mi-ae had to undergo major surgery that lasted eight hours and had one-third of her tongue removed.

Fortunately, I was able to speak, but the aftereffects were severe. The face became unbalanced and stiffened at the slightest fatigue. It was difficult to swallow food, and my announcer-like pronunciation became twisted and disorganized. Recurrence was common, so I lived in anxiety and fear for six months after surgery.

My confidence and self-esteem as a singer suddenly disappeared and I closed my heart. The only thing that stayed by her side was her family. Her husband, Cho Seong-hwan, who she met when she was a trainee and dreamed of becoming a singer together, stayed by Jeong Mi-ae's side, crying and laughing along with his struggling wife.

Jeong Mi-ae didn't want anyone to notice, so she locked herself in a small room and repeated the song to herself. At first, even opening my mouth was a struggle, but I practiced until my mouth became twisted and stiff. After a year, Jeong Mi-ae stood on stage again. The heart that deepened after experiencing pain made her song even deeper. Singer Jung Mi-ae, who is starting over after going through unexpected trials in life, is also planning to release a new song through 'Human Theater'.

Jeong Mi-ae, who took on the challenge of ‘Miss Trot’ while having three children. She participated in the broadcast on the 67th day after giving birth and was highly praised by the master, to the point where she was selected as a member of 'Jin Seon-mi'. He didn't just put on a spectacular performance. By weaving together a variety of life stories, it left a deep impression beyond visual enjoyment.

Jung Mi-ae, who seemed to have finally blossomed as a singer, had to put down the microphone again when she announced the news of her battle with tongue cancer. Although he has released a new song through steady rehabilitation, he still needs 'no-look consideration'. This is because complete recovery requires endless time. This is the best response the public can show for 'human Jeong Mi-ae', 'mother Jeong Mi-ae', and 'wife Jeong Mi-ae' who are putting aside 'singer Jeong Mi-ae' for a while and focusing on rehabilitation.

According to the fans' wishes, recovery to health is a priority. It is time for Jung Mi-ae to work harder on her recovery while fans wait with peace of mind so that she can return to her rightful place as a singer as soon as possible.

Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr