Kwon-ho Shim Opens Up About Liver Cancer Battle and Successful Surgery

It has been revealed that Kwon-ho Shim, who had lost contact with many, was battling liver cancer. He tearfully shared the reasons for initially refusing treatment. Following a successful surgery, he received applause for his bravery. The episode recorded a peak minute rating of 3.9% and a nationwide rating of 3.6%.

On the show, Kwon-ho Shim, who had received a marriage agency voucher from Hyun-seop Shim, suddenly lost contact. Singer Jae-wook Lim, the 'First Pond Man' Hyun-seop Shim, and the 'Honorary Shim' PD formed a 'Refund Expedition' to visit Kwon-ho Shim's home. As they tried to wake him, his mother appeared, saying, "He's very sick. Marriage is out of the question," and sent them away. Amidst everyone's concern, they finally reached Kwon-ho Shim, who admitted to drinking and expressed his apologies. The production team prioritized his health and persuaded him to go to the hospital.

While examining Shim's abdomen with an ultrasound, the doctor noted, "The liver looks very hard," suggesting cirrhosis. When advised to get a CT scan, Shim refused and hastily left the hospital.

Later, at a relationship workshop, coach Kyung Yoon, who cared for Shim like a son, along with Hyun-seop Shim and Jae-wook Lim, visited his home to offer support. Shim then revealed, "It's liver cancer, and they caught it early," showing his test results. Everyone was shocked, and the production team was left speechless by the gravity of the situation.

Shim confessed, "I was scared. I didn't want it to be known and wanted to keep it to myself. I didn't want others to see me like this," explaining that he ran away from treatment due to the pressure of public attention.

Shim continued, "I was terrified and ran away from the hospital. I didn't want to stop because of liver cancer. I knew my condition," shedding tears. His heartfelt tears resonated with viewers, who offered their support.

Shim expressed, "I felt lonely. I'm grateful to have someone by my side. Treating liver cancer has become a promise I must keep," showing a positive outlook. He added, "Honestly, after the 1996 Olympics, everyone said I couldn't do it. But I did. I'll do it again. I'll go and conquer it."

Eventually, Shim appeared in a video with a bright demeanor after successfully undergoing surgery. Recovering well, he promised, "I tackled liver cancer well. I'll show you a healthy and good side of me," and vowed to quit drinking and achieve his goal of getting married. He also told the production team, "I've shed a huge burden in life. Now I'll recover and stand up again."

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr