Comedian Yu Sang-mu. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse)]
Comedian Yu Sang-mu. [Herald POP (now Herald Muse)]

Comedian Yu Sang-mu has opened up about life after overcoming stage 3 colon cancer.

On Friday, Yu shared a video on his social media with the message, "Everyone, you really need to stay healthy."

In the video, Yu said he wanted to share his personal story. "I had cancer before — it was late-stage 3 colon cancer," he said. "At the time, I was told there was a 50 percent chance I would survive, and 70 percent if I underwent chemotherapy."

Yu recalled that he had been at a high point in his career at the time. "I was doing well back then — appearing on a lot of variety shows," he said. "But when I walked into the operating room, I really did leave everything behind. Money, fame, the bracelet on my wrist, accessories, my wallet, my cards — I left it all outside."

He went on to say, "At that moment, I kept thinking, 'If only I could open my eyes again in good health,' 'If only I could live a healthy life again.' When the door to the operating room closed, my eyes met my wife's — and seeing her cry, I thought, 'I have to survive,' 'If only I can have this tumor removed.'"

"I think sharing my story might give some people courage and a fresh outlook," Yu added. "Don't get sick — just focus on your health. Simply being able to walk makes me happy."

Meanwhile, Yu made his debut as a KBS 19th-class comedian in 2004 and went on to appear in shows including "Gag Concert." He was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2017 and underwent surgery and chemotherapy, receiving a full recovery declaration in 2022.


choigo@heraldcorp.com