[Sportschosun Reporter Park A-ram] Singer Okhee, 73, is reportedly in critical condition while battling kidney cancer.
According to a report by Ilgan Sports on the 19th, Okhee was diagnosed with kidney cancer two years ago and has continued treatment, but her health has recently deteriorated sharply. She is currently hospitalized at a medical facility in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, where she is receiving treatment.
Earlier, Okhee appeared on the January broadcast of Good Day and revealed that the cancer had metastasized, but said she was focusing on treatment. However, her condition is said to have worsened rapidly in recent days. Her husband, former boxer Hong Soo-hwan, is reportedly staying by her bedside and caring for her, adding to the sadness.
Actor Han Ji-il described Okhee's current condition in an interview with Ilgan Sports. He said, "I visited her a month ago, and I went again yesterday, but she is in a very bad state now," adding, "It is difficult for her to eat meals or snacks, and even drinking water is not easy."
He added, "We are not related by blood, but she is like family to me," and expressed his sorrow, saying, "She has always been bright and never showed how hard it was, even when she was sick."
Born in 1953, Okhee is one of the leading female singers of the 1970s. She came from the first-generation K-pop girl group Seoul Sisters, which was active in the United States, and later made her domestic debut with "I Don't Know," winning widespread popularity. She enjoyed her peak years with a string of hits, including "Speaking with My Eyes" and "Neighbor."
Meanwhile, Okhee is also well known for her special connection with former world boxing champion Hong Soo-hwan. The two married in 1977 but divorced after one year. After spending many years apart, they reunited in 1995 and became husband and wife again.
tokkig@sportschosun.com
