Kim Woo Bin recalls his battle with cancer; the doctor said, 'You only have six months to live'

Kim Woo Bin

South Korean actor Kim Woo Bin made a spectacular return to the big screen with the Netflix premiere of Officer Black Belt on September 13. This highly anticipated film marks a significant milestone in Woo Bin's career, as he reunites with co-star Kim Sung Kyun to promote the movie. The duo appeared on the YouTube channel Zzanbro Shin Dong Yup on Monday, September 16, and impressed the audiences with their chemistry.

During the episode, Woo Bin opted for a non-alcoholic beer and opened up about his harrowing battle with nasopharyngeal cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2017. His agency, Sidus HQ, released an official statement at the time, informing fans that the Uncontrollably Fond star had begun radiation treatment and would be taking a hiatus from his professional commitments to focus on his health.

In a heart-wrenching revelation, Woo Bin shared the emotional journey of his treatment and eventual recovery. He recalled the shock and fear he felt when his doctor delivered the devastating news, likening it to a dramatic scene from a film. "It was like a scene from a drama when the doctor suddenly said, ‘If it’s short, you only have six months to live.’ I was shocked and scared, and I wished it were just a dream,” he recounted.

Despite the prognosis, Woo Bin never entertained the thought of defeat. He instead chose to see his treatment period as a time to rest, recover, and emerge stronger. He credited the immense support and prayers from fans and well-wishers for giving him the strength to persevere. "So many people, simply because they recognised my face, offered their support and prayers. I believe that support gave me strength,” he said as he expressed his desire to pass on the kindness he received to others.

Woo Bin was subsequently exempted from military service. In 2019, Kim had completely recovered from his cancer.

Since his recovery, Woo Bin has not only resumed his acting career but also continued his philanthropic efforts. In 2022, he donated 100 million won to the Hope Bridge Disaster Relief Association to aid wildfire victims in Uljin, Gyeongbuk, and Samcheok. The following year, he contributed another 100 million won to Seoul’s Asan Medical Centre to help cover medical expenses for underprivileged patients.

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Kim Woo Bin's post-recovery filmography is impressive. He was seen in the sci-fi film Alienoid (2022) and its sequel Alienoid: Return to the Future (2024). He also starred in the K-drama Our Blues (2022) and Netflix’s Black Knight (2023). His collaboration with Netflix continues with his lead role in Officer Black Belt and the upcoming series All The Love You Wish For, where he will reunite with his Uncontrollably Fond co-star Bae Suzy.

In a delightful departure from his usual roles, Woo Bin embraced the rural lifestyle in the variety series "GBRB Reap What You Sow" (2023), joining EXO’s DO (Doh Kyungsoo), Lee Kwang Soo, and Kim Ki Bang as they experienced farming life together.

Kim Woo Bin's journey from a life-threatening illness to a celebrated return in the entertainment industry is a testament to his resilience and the unwavering support of his fans.