Jo Kwon has shared the reason behind his long hiatus—and it wasn’t a simple one.
Appearing on a recent YouTube video, he spoke candidly about the period when his activities slowed down, revealing that it coincided with serious health struggles within his family.
While he was serving in the military, his mother was diagnosed with melanoma and underwent surgery that led to the amputation of her foot. Around the same time, his father was also battling colorectal cancer and required multiple surgeries. As an only child, Jo Kwon found himself taking on the responsibility of supporting both parents.
That reality inevitably affected his career. Even when opportunities came up, he explained that he had to prioritize being present for his family, going back and forth to the hospital whenever possible.
He also admitted that his own health had been unstable during that period, recalling instances where he suddenly collapsed due to low blood pressure and blood sugar.
Through it all, the experience reshaped his perspective. Looking back, he acknowledged that he had consistently placed family and work ahead of himself—something he is now beginning to reconsider.
Jo Kwon debuted in 2008 as a member of 2AM and has since built a diverse career across music and musicals, including productions like Rent.