In an interview, INFINITE Nam Woohyun revealed he was diagnosed with a rare cancer in April and fought hard while hiding it from the fans and media. He also updated on his recent health status.
INFINITE Nam Woohyun Recalls Battle With Rare Cancer
Ahead of his first solo full-length album's release, INFINITE Nam Woohyun sat down for an interview with the Korean media.
The idol took time to talk about his sincerity and thoughts about his solo comeback with "Whitree," set to be unveiled on Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. KST.
During the interview, the reporters asked Woohyun why it took him about two years before he decided to release new music as a soloist.
Just then, he made a huge revelation that he had been hiding from the public — his battle against a rare cancer.
"Actually, I wasn't feeling very well earlier this year. So I had a major surgery. At that time, I wanted to meet a lot of fans. I was very heartbroken because I thought I wouldn't be able to perform this year.
I also moved to a new company, and this year was the most difficult time in my life. I initially accepted that I wouldn't be able to be active this year. INFINITE's comeback was delayed because of me, so I almost couldn't perform since I worried I would hold them back even more.
Fortunately, I recovered quickly so I was able to finish our performance."
As he continued, Woohyun confessed that he actually had a rare cancer, which was why he had a major surgery back in April.
"I had an 'open' surgery and was under general anesthesia for about 10 hours. It really took me a long time to recover. I used to be very healthy, but unintentionally, the (doctor) found that I have a GIST cancer (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor), so I had surgery by splitting my abdomen about 20cm."
GIST is a rare type of cancer that begins in the digestive system. It can start either in the stomach, or small intestine, and it can also form from the esophagus or the anus.
When asked about his recent health status, Woohyun brought good news and attested to everyone that he's recovering well.
"The tumor has been successfully removed and I'm only undergoing follow-up exams. I will have a follow-up test next year to make sure it is healing well. I have to carry it with me for the rest of my life, but, fortunately, the surgery ended well."
Despite this hidden battle and pain he suffered this 2023, Nam Woohyun showed a positive outlook in life, stating that wants to remember this year as him being "reborn."
"Should I call it reincarnation? I feel like I was reborn. It was so hard. After the surgery, I thought I couldn't do my activities because it was too hard. I thought a lot about it and had a hard time, but the company I moved to gave me a lot of courage.
They took care of me every time, so I was very courageous. They also encouraged me to prepare the album as soon as I recovered. Thank you so much. You made me reborn."
Nam Woohyun to Return With 1st Solo Studio Album 'Whitree'
Meanwhile, after taking a break for two years, INFINITE Nam Woohyun will release his first studio album, "Whitree," on Nov. 28.
The title is a combination of the words "White" and "Tree" that reminds him of a white snow-covered tree that goes well with winter and saves the season. the title is also comprised of meaningful letters such as "WH, "Woohyun's name initials and "I" which stands for Inspirits (his fandom).
For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.
KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Eunice Dawson.
