Comedian Jeon Yoo-seong (76) is reported to be in critical condition.
On the 25th, Kim Hak-rae, the president of the Korea Broadcasting Comedians Association, had a phone conversation with JTBC Entertainment News, saying, “I visited Jeon Yoo-seong yesterday. He is currently in a hospital in Jeonju and is in very critical condition, struggling to breathe with an oxygen mask.”
He continued, “He is conscious and is reportedly organizing his affairs by meeting people he wants to see, at his daughter’s request. He personally asked me to conduct his funeral as a comedian’s funeral. It’s heartbreaking and touching to see him make jokes and prepare for his departure despite being in pain. I don’t think I could do the same if I were in his position,” expressing his regret.
The Korea Broadcasting Comedians Association is continuously monitoring Jeon Yoo-seong’s condition to prepare for any situation. They are also collecting video messages from comedians who have difficulty visiting due to scheduling conflicts and delivering them to Jeon Yoo-seong’s family. Another association member mentioned that “Jeon Yoo-seong was in a precarious state on the 23rd but has fortunately regained some strength.”
Jeon Yoo-seong underwent a pneumothorax procedure in June and recently had his health rapidly decline, leading to an urgent hospital admission. Consequently, he was unable to attend the Busan International Comedy Festival last month. When he appeared on the YouTube content ‘Kkondaehee’ last year, he revealed that he had suffered from acute pneumonia, arrhythmia, and COVID-19, appearing noticeably gaunt.
He debuted as a TV show writer in 1969 with TBC’s ‘Show Show Show’ and was widely loved for his performances on various stages. He is also credited with being the first person to use the term “gagman” (comedian).