Lee Je Hoon Reveals Signing Death Consent Form Amid Health Struggle: ‘I Was in So Much Pain’

Lee Je Hoon delivers an update regarding his health condition after having emergency surgery in 2023. 

Following his successful return in "Taxi Driver" season 2, the award-winning actor gears up for back-to-back projects. This includes his then-upcoming K-drama "Chief Detective 1958" and hosting at the 28th Busan International Film Festival. 

However, in October 2023, the public was shocked after Lee Je Hoon's agency, COMPANY ON, announced that he was stepping down as host for the upcoming ceremony. 

In addition to this, he also postponed the filming of his K-drama comeback to focus on his recovery. 

At the time, Lee Je Hoon underwent emergency surgery early after being diagnosed with ischemic colitis. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition is caused when "blood flow to part of the large intestine is reduced."

Ischemic colitis is most common in the upper left segment of the intestine but may also affect any part of the colon. 

After almost 8 months since his health scare, the actor looked back at the frightening experience and recalled the struggle he endured during his recovery. 

Lee Je Hoon Recalls Scary Details About His Health Issue

In an interview with a local media outlet, the actor recalled how "unbearable" the pain is. 

"The moment I got sick, I held on for 4 hours and had surgery, but this was also the moment when I could end my life. I was in so much pain," he said, adding that even the painkillers were not working for him. 

READ MORE: Lee Je Hoon Reveals Going Beyond His Physical Limits for 'Escape'

Apart from the surgery, Lee Je Hoon revealed that he had to sign a death consent, which surprised him. 

"After deciding to have surgery, I had to sign a death consent form, but I thought, 'I could die here,' and time passed like a flash. I fell asleep after taking painkillers, and woke up after the surgery."

Fortunately, the operation went well, but it made him reflect on the life that he wanted to live. 

"I woke up and thought a lot about whether I was living my life without regrets, and I thought to myself, 'I'm going to live my life the way I want.' I felt like I wasn't enjoying my life."

Lee Je Hoon also mentioned prioritizing and listening to our bodies. 

He said that prior to his health scare, he would constantly work, and realizing it now makes him feel sad. 

"I felt sorry for my body. Even after it was over, I couldn't rest because I still had work scheduled. This is what my life is like. The part where I say, 'I'm just going to live.'"

Currently, Lee Je Hoon is busy promoting his upcoming movie "Escape" with Goo Kyo Hwan. 

'Escape' Release Date

Helmed by Lee Jong Pil of "One Day Off," "Escape" is an action movie that transforms Lee Je Hoon as  North Korean soldier  Lim Gyu Nam, who attempts to escape to South Korea for a better life. 

Amid his chaotic plan, he reunites with State Security Department Major Hyun Sang, who recognizes Kyu Nam, someone he has known since childhood. 

Instead of being a deserter, Lim Gyu Nam was introduced as a hero for stopping a common soldier, Dong Hyuk (Xong Ha Bin), from escaping. 

Slated to hit the big scream on July 3, "Escape" will also feature special cameos from Song Kang, Esom, and Lee Ho Jung. 

IN CASE YOU MISSED: Lee Je Hoon Teases Viewers About The Update With 'Taxi Driver' Season 3, 'Signal' Season 2: 'I'm Waiting...'

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Written by Geca Flores