Han Seung-yeon performs on stage at the Sogang University festival on Friday. [Online community]
Han Seung-yeon performs on stage at the Sogang University festival on Friday. [Online community]

Fans are expressing concern over Han Seung-yeon, 38, a member of K-pop group Kara who is receiving treatment for a cervical disc condition, after footage of her recent stage appearance drew widespread attention online.

Video of Han performing at the Sogang University festival on Friday has been circulating online and generating significant discussion.

Han took the stage alongside her Kara bandmates, performing the group's hit songs including "Pretty Girl," "Honey," "Lupin," "Step" and "Mister."

Throughout the performance, Han appeared to be in visible physical discomfort. Her expression remained tense, and the bright, eye-crinkling smile she is known for was largely absent. At several points she placed her hand on her lower back as if in pain, and during choreography requiring large upper-body movements, her neck appeared stiff, forcing her into awkward postures.

Online commenters responded with concern and encouragement, writing things such as "Her cervical disc looks serious — treatment should come first," "I hurt just watching her," and "We hope to see you on stage in good health."

Han had already drawn similar concern from fans the previous month. She was spotted trembling in her hands multiple times during a birthday party with fans, and footage from a stage performance around the same period also showed her moving with a noticeably stiff upper body, fueling speculation about her health.

Her agency, Aer Entertainment, said at the time that Han's cervical disc symptoms had recently worsened, causing the hand tremors, and that she was undergoing treatment with no other health concerns. However, Han has continued to appear on stage showing signs of discomfort even after that statement, and fans have grown louder in urging her to prioritize her recovery.


paq@heraldcorp.com