Actor Park Young-kyu, 73, Faces Health Scare: Polyp Discovered During First Checkup – A Reminder for Preventative Care
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – July 20, 2025 – In a deeply personal and frankly, startling revelation, veteran South Korean actor Park Young-kyu, 73, has been diagnosed with a 6mm polyp in his colon during his very first health checkup. The news, broadcast on KBS 2TV’s “Salim Men Season 2” yesterday, has sparked a conversation about the importance of regular screenings, even for those who feel healthy. This is breaking news that underscores a critical message: preventative care can save lives.
A First-Time Checkup Reveals a Potential Threat
Park Young-kyu, known for his prolific career in Korean television and film, reportedly underwent the health checkup with considerable anxiety. Before the procedure, he even left a testament for his wife and daughter, expressing fears about his health. His wife, 25 years his junior (the couple married in 2019 after three previous divorces for Park), voiced even greater concern for his well-being. The colonoscopy revealed a polyp that doctors believe is at a pre-cancerous stage, narrowly avoiding progression to colon cancer.
Understanding Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer: A Growing Concern
Colon polyps are growths on the lining of the colon. While not all polyps become cancerous, some can develop into colorectal cancer over time. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Early detection through regular screenings – like colonoscopies – is crucial for successful treatment and improved survival rates. The discovery in Park Young-kyu’s case highlights just how vital these screenings are, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.
Who is at Risk? And When Should You Get Screened?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing colon cancer, including age (risk increases significantly after 50), family history of the disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain lifestyle factors like a diet high in red and processed meats and a lack of physical activity. Current guidelines generally recommend starting regular screenings at age 45, but individuals with a higher risk profile should consult with their doctor about earlier and more frequent screenings. The case of Park Young-kyu serves as a poignant reminder that even those who appear healthy can benefit from proactive health monitoring.
Beyond the Headlines: The Importance of Holistic Health
This news isn’t just about one actor’s health scare; it’s a broader call to action. It’s a reminder that prioritizing health isn’t a sign of weakness, but a demonstration of love for yourself and your loved ones. Taking the time for regular checkups, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and being aware of your body’s signals are all essential components of preventative care. The emotional weight of Park Young-kyu’s experience, sharing his fears with his family before the checkup, is a powerful testament to the importance of open communication about health concerns.
Park Young-kyu’s story is a wake-up call. It’s a reminder that even a seemingly small polyp can be a serious threat, and that early detection is the key to beating colon cancer. For more information on colon cancer prevention, screening guidelines, and healthy living, explore the resources available on Archyde’s Health Section. Don’t delay – your health is your most valuable asset.
