Lee Bong-joo, a former national marathon runner, has moved many hearts by returning to running after a four-year battle with illness.
On the 13th, a video featuring Lee Bong-joo as a guest was uploaded to the YouTube channel of Kian84, a webtoon artist turned broadcaster. The two engaged in a 5km run while sharing various stories.
Lee Bong-joo confessed, "I spent four years dealing with an unexplained muscle tension disorder. Honestly, I thought I would never run again for the rest of my life." He added, "I'm not fully recovered yet, but I have improved enough to jog slowly. It truly feels miraculous to be able to run like this," smiling as he spoke.
Kian84 expressed, "I can't believe there’s a day I get to run with you. I remember you said on the show that your wish was to just run 10km," feeling emotional. Lee Bong-joo replied, "Thank you for remembering that. Back then, I was filled with despair, but now I feel like I'm living a second life."
During the run, Lee Bong-joo briefly complained of back pain and slowed down. He honestly stated, "Sometimes my back feels stiff, and I have this sinking feeling in my body. I'm not fully recovered yet, so I'm exercising cautiously." Kian84 expressed concern, asking, "Are you okay?" Lee Bong-joo reassured him, saying, "I just need to go a little slower," and continued the run without giving up.
In the end, the two completed their goal of running 5km. Kian84 praised, "I truly respect you. You are a runner of strong spirit," while Lee Bong-joo expressed his gratitude by saying, "Just being able to run again is something I’m thankful for."