Choi Ye-na reveals childhood battle with pediatric cancer

Singer Choi Ye-na has revealed how she overcame life-threatening battles with pediatric cancer during her childhood. She confessed that around the age of four, her condition was so critical that doctors saw no hope, and she grew up under the intensive care of her family due to her weak constitution. Choi expressed that her current life is a result of her parents' devotion, noting that she has worked with the determination to succeed and repay them.

During the MBC entertainment program 'Omniscient Interfering View' broadcast on the 19th, Choi's daily life and family history were highlighted. On the episode, Choi's mother visited her daughter's home to prepare a meal, advising, "You must take care of your health, no matter how busy you are truly are."

There was a profound reason behind her mother's words, which might have seemed like ordinary parental nagging. It stems from the major illness Choi suffered as a child.

During the broadcast, Choi directly stated, "I had pediatric cancer when I was a baby." She recalled the gravity of the situation, saying, "My life hung in the balance when I was four," and "I was so sick that the hospital said there was no hope."

She also shared an anecdote about how her parents searched for every possible way to treat her. Choi said, "My parents took my photo to a shaman, and as soon as the shaman saw the photo, they threw it back, saying, 'Why are you bringing a photo of a dead child?'" This was a story Choi heard from her parents and shared on the show; it does not imply that specific medical circumstances or clinical progress were being officially disclosed.

She added, "At that time, my mom and dad cherished and raised me with everything they had to save me somehow," and "I was extremely weak." She explained that her family was deeply concerned about her health since childhood, and her parents provided constant protection and attention during her upbringing.

Choi also recounted another incident from her childhood when she was physically frail following her battle with cancer. She said, "I was living innocently like a precious child, but I injured my leg and the hospital said I wouldn't be able to walk."

The method her mother chose at the time was quite unique. Choi recalled, "After hearing that story, my mom took me to a public bathhouse and threw me into a large tub," adding, "I thought, 'If I want to live, shouldn't I move?' And a month later, I walked."

However, this anecdote is a recollection shared by Choi based on childhood memories and family stories. Since specific medical records regarding the judgment or treatment process were not disclosed, it should not be viewed as a standard medical treatment.

For Choi, her childhood medical history is more than just a painful memory. The memory of her parents making every effort to save her has led to a profound sense of emotional debt and gratitude in her adult life.

She expressed her deep feelings for her parents, saying, "I believe my parents saved me from a fate where I could not have lived."

Hearing this, Jeon Hyeonmu remarked that there is a reason why Choi's mother's nagging has become more intense. He implied that for parents who witnessed their child's health struggles, it is difficult to overlook an adult child neglecting their health amidst a busy schedule.

Choi fully understood her parents' perspective. She confessed her apologetic feelings toward the parents who protected her, saying, "I felt so sorry because I caused my parents a lot of heartache."

She then revealed that she developed a mindset to repay them in her own way. Choi said, "From that time, I had the thought that I must absolutely succeed and somehow repay them. As I have been working really hard, they have been very happy lately."

Her way of repaying them has been quite tangible. Choi drew attention by revealing, "I changed the house and my mother's car, and I plan to change my father's car this time."

She explained that this is not about flaunting economic success, but about honoring her parents, who were so devoted to her during her childhood, in the way she is able to.

Choi made her name known to the public by debuting with the girl group Iz*One in 2018. Since the group's activities ended, she has expanded her career as a solo singer and entertainer. Having been loved for her bright, cheerful character and stage presence, she has also maintained a positive image in variety programs. Recently, she has been solidifying her position as a solo artist by expanding into broadcasting, content production, and various performances.

The childhood stories shared in this broadcast revealed the reality behind the bright image the public has seen of Choi Ye-na. The parental concern that might seem like simple nagging is actually deeply connected to the memories of her parents fighting to save her life.

Ultimately, the "success" Choi speaks of is not merely professional achievement. It is about seeing her parents—who fought to save her—find happiness in her success, and being able to provide for them in return.

The child who once had to endure hospital treatments under her parents' guidance has become an adult who now cares for her parents' lives. This is why Choi's confession regarding her battle with pediatric cancer is more than just a history; it is the foundation of her current relationship with her family.