Yoon Jong-shin Opens Up About Crohn's Disease Struggles, Receives Support from Fans

Singer-songwriter Yoon Jong-shin recently shared his ongoing battle with Crohn's disease, revealing that he experienced a flare-up of symptoms. On June 21, he took to his social media to express, "It's been a while since I've had Crohn's pain. I couldn't even eat with my friends during a round of golf. Please don't misunderstand," adding, "Crohn's always comes back like this. You first came to me over 30 years ago, and I didn't even know your name for 20 years. Now, it feels like we're friends, albeit a troublesome one."

His candid admission prompted an outpouring of support from fans, with comments like, "Don't get tired, stay strong," and "It's okay to keep your distance from a 30-year friend when you're exhausted. I can feel your sincerity, Jong-shin."

Yoon has previously disclosed his long-term struggle with Crohn's disease on various broadcasts, recalling, "I suffered from unexplained abdominal pain and diarrhea since middle school, but I didn't learn the name of my condition until my late 30s. At the time, I thought it was just my constitution."

He further revealed, "I was diagnosed in 2006 and even underwent surgery, where they removed 60 cm of my small intestine due to inflammation in three areas. My skinny frame in the '90s was also due to this illness." Despite the challenges, he conveyed a hopeful message, stating, "With proper management, my lifespan can be the same as that of a healthy person."

Yoon's wife, Jeon Mi-ra, a former national tennis player, also shared her experiences on MBC's Human Documentary: People Are Good in 2015, stating, "My husband still experiences bloody stools due to Crohn's disease. It's not a terminal illness, and we can overcome it together. I encourage him because I have a positive spirit."

Other artists, including trot singer Young-ki, have also opened up about their battles with Crohn's disease, helping to raise awareness about this rare condition. Yoon Jong-shin's reflections not only document his pain but also provide significant comfort to those facing similar struggles.