Remembering Comedian and Singer Kim Cheol-min on the Third Anniversary of His Passing

It has been three years since the passing of comedian and singer Kim Cheol-min (김철민), who left this world on December 16, 2021, at the age of 54. Diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in August 2019, he fought bravely against the disease, even resorting to using the animal dewormer fenbendazole in hopes of recovery, which garnered him widespread support.

Throughout his battle, Kim Cheol-min kept his fans updated via his social media accounts, sharing his experiences and health updates. Initially, after starting fenbendazole, he reported feeling better, but later revealed that the dewormer was not effective against his cancer.

By August 2021, he disclosed, "I can no longer undergo chemotherapy. I have had 12 rounds of chemotherapy, 5 cervical spine surgeries, 70 radiation treatments, and 10 CyberKnife treatments. I am currently receiving painkiller injections every two hours, and cancer cells have spread throughout my body. However, I will not give up and will continue to endure until the end."

In November, he posted, "I am fighting my last battle," and just days before his passing, on December 10, he expressed gratitude with a poignant message: "I was happy thanks to you. Thank you. I love you." On December 11, he changed his profile picture to one of himself smiling brightly before his illness.

Despite the grueling treatments, he often shared moments of joy, playing guitar and singing, which brought hope to many. His final posts raised concerns among fans, who prayed for a miracle. Unfortunately, after more than two years of fighting, he passed away.

Following his death, close friend DJ Hashim shared with OSEN, "Kim Cheol-min suffered greatly. The pain he endured was unimaginable. I hope he is now in heaven, busking happily."

Hashim remembered Kim as a natural entertainer, full of confidence, and recalled their conversations about wanting to perform together again. Other comedians, including Kim Won-hyo (김원효), Jung Jong-cheol (정종철), Kim Jae-wook (김재욱), and Kim Tae-kyun (김태균), also paid tribute to him on their social media accounts.

In a touching moment on the TV Chosun show 복덩이들고 (GO) aired last January, Yoon Hyo-sang (윤효상) shared Kim's last words, recalling their long partnership in music. He revealed, "Kim had a guitar and busked in the corner while I sang in front of the audience. We combined our talents for nearly 30 years. Before he passed, he told me, 'Even if I can't win against cancer, please protect Daehak-ro (대학로) until the end.' He left me his guitar, which is a poignant reminder of our friendship."

Kim Cheol-min debuted as a comedian in 1994 through MBC's fifth open recruitment and gained fame on shows like 개그야 (Gagya). He was beloved for his busking performances in Daehak-ro, earning the nickname 'Marronnier Gentleman' and later released songs like 괜찮아 (It's Okay) that spread messages of hope.