Former Marathon Runner Lee Bong-joo Shares His Recovery Journey

Former marathon runner Lee Bong-joo (이봉주), who has been battling a rare disease, recently updated fans on his health during an appearance on the tvN variety show 'You Quiz on the Block' (유 퀴즈 온 더 블럭). On July 23, he expressed, "As you can see, I am doing much better now. I can walk well and even run a little bit."

Lee began experiencing unexplained pain in January 2020 and was diagnosed with a rare condition called 'muscle tension dysregulation' (근육긴장이상증) the following year. This disorder affects the central nervous system's ability to regulate muscle contractions and tension, leading to stiff muscles and body distortions. During a previous broadcast, he shocked viewers by showing how his neck could bend at a 90-degree angle, evoking widespread sympathy.

Reflecting on his struggles, Lee recalled, "While filming, my stomach would start running uncontrollably, and I began to deteriorate little by little. I couldn't lie down, my back was constantly bent, and I experienced repeated abdominal spasms." He admitted feeling frustrated, questioning why this illness had struck him.

His wife, Kim Mi-soon (김미순), who also appeared on the show, shared their challenging journey. "For 19 months, we visited various hospitals, including university hospitals and traditional medicine clinics, but his condition worsened. We received prescriptions without knowing the cause. We tried nerve block surgeries and everything possible," she said. She described the emotional toll, saying it felt like passing through a tunnel without light, and she often felt like crying.

When conventional treatments failed, Lee decided to follow his wife's advice to seek alternative methods. Kim took it upon herself to create a diet using seasonal ingredients, prepared all his meals, and provided massages for two and a half years as part of a self-treatment regimen. Thanks to her dedication, Lee gradually began to sleep better, and his abdominal spasms subsided, leading to significant improvements in his health.

Lee remarked, "It felt like I had been through hell for four years." As he started to feel better, he felt the urge to exercise again, stating, "I began hiking and walking." His recovery culminated in April of last year when he participated in the 28th Samcheok Hwang Young-jo International Marathon (제28회 삼척 황영조 국제마라톤대회), where he managed to run approximately 100 meters, showcasing what many called a 'miracle.'

In closing, Lee expressed his gratitude to his wife, saying, "Thank you for always being my support. You endured so much during these four long years. I feel I must treat you well for the rest of my life."