Lee Kyung-jin Opens Up About Hearing Issues and Breathing Difficulties During Filming Amid Breast Cancer Battle

Actress Lee Kyung-jin shared her unexpected experience with hearing issues while filming a drama during her ongoing battle with breast cancer. In the latest episode of KBS2's 'Park Won-sook's Let's Live Together' aired on November 21, 2024, Lee Kyung-jin and Moon Hee-kyung celebrated Lee's birthday with a homemade meal of seaweed soup and braised hairtail fish.

During the meal, Park Won-sook asked the group about their current struggles, reflecting on her own hardships. She expressed, "When I was going through tough times, I thought that suffering for money was the easiest thing. But after facing bigger challenges, I realized that suffering for money is indeed the easiest."

Lee Kyung-jin, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and later declared cancer-free after chemotherapy, recounted her recent health scare. "I lived through ten years of pain, and when people say, 'You’re healthy now,' I remember a time while filming when my balance was off. I got into a car, and when the music was too loud, I suddenly couldn’t breathe. It was terrifying. My heart felt strange, and I struggled to breathe. I ended up visiting the hospital for over six months, and they said my balance was off in my ear," she explained.

Park Won-sook suggested that stress could be a factor, mentioning that it might lead to Meniere's disease. Lee Kyung-jin confirmed, "They said it’s psychological. I felt dizzy and couldn’t get up. It happened during a recording session."

The conversation shifted as Park Won-sook reflected on how avoiding certain situations can lead to unexpected outcomes. Lee Kyung-jin agreed, noting that while it’s wise to pursue what you love, sometimes avoiding challenges can lead to worse situations.

Later, the group visited a Metasequoia forest where they were greeted by enthusiastic young fans. Lee Kyung-jin expressed her amazement at how many generations had passed since her own childhood, while Moon Hee-kyung remarked on the joy of being recognized by fans. Park Won-sook expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enjoy such moments despite her health struggles.

The group then enjoyed a picnic, where they discussed their acting careers. Moon Hee-kyung shared her experience of playing a mother role to actress Song Yoon-ah, emphasizing the importance of confidence in taking on roles regardless of age.

As the evening progressed, the four decided to prepare Japchae for local elders, engaging in a friendly competition to see who could make the best dish. Despite some mishaps, including Park Won-sook getting caught cheating and Lee Kyung-jin struggling with her recipe, they completed their dishes. Ultimately, Moon Hee-kyung received the most votes from the elders.

Reflecting on their time together, Park Won-sook expressed her surprise and gratitude for the new family dynamic, while Lee Kyung-jin shared how her perspective had changed since her last visit two years ago. Moon Hee-kyung also expressed her initial worries about fitting in but found warmth and acceptance from her seniors, leading to a heartfelt farewell as they concluded their time together.