[Sportschosun reporter Jung An-ji] Comedian Jung Jong-chul, known for his "Okdongja" character, shared a touching letter to his son, who graduated from high school in Canada.
On the 21st, Jung Jong-chul posted a long congratulatory message to his son on social media, saying, "Sihoo, I watched your high school graduation ceremony on video last night. When I heard your name called and saw you walk confidently onto the stage, I had so many thoughts, son." He also expressed regret that he could not attend the ceremony in person.
He said, "When you first decided to study in Canada, it was a strange country where you did not know a single person. Your mom and dad were not by your side, and everything was new." He added, "To be honest, I worried a lot. Would you adjust well? Would you get lonely? Could you keep up with your studies?"
But his son grew far stronger than his parents had feared. Jung Jong-chul said, "You were much stronger than your father’s worries. You went to school alone, made friends alone, solved problems alone, and grew on your own." He added, "And in the end, you stood on the graduation stage and received the Gold Code for outstanding honors, the AP Academic Scholar award, and the top score award in Social Justice 12." He said he was proud, though he noted that "the number of awards is not what matters."
Jung Jong-chul said, "What makes your mom and dad most proud is that you came this far through your own strength, not because someone told you to." He added, "I heard you say in the video that you wanted to give special thanks to your family, but honestly, I am the one who is more grateful."
He continued, "You quietly walked your own path in a foreign country without your mom and dad. You never gave up, never wavered, and saw it through to the end. Your father knows how remarkable that is."
At the end of the message, Jung Jong-chul said, "Sihoo, congratulations on your graduation from the bottom of my heart. I love you. And thank you so much." He added, "And I am sorry that your mom and dad should have been there, even if only for the graduation ceremony."
Meanwhile, Jung Jong-chul married former actress Hwang Gyu-rim in 2006, and they have one son and two daughters. He was widely loved for his "Okdongja" character on KBS2's "Gag Concert," and now runs the channel "Okjubu," where he connects with fans through family life and cooking content.
anjee85@sportschosun.com
