On the June 8 broadcast of TV CHOSUN’s Huh Young-man’s Food Travel, actor Jung Il-woo made a heartfelt appearance in Boeun, North Chungcheong Province. While known for his charismatic roles and consistent success across television and film, the actor stunned viewers with a deeply personal revelation that marked a major turning point in his life and career.
During the episode, Jung Il-woo shared, “At the age of 27, I was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm. It felt like everything stopped. For the first time, I genuinely thought I might die.” This health scare prompted a profound journey—both physically and emotionally—as he made the decision to walk the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in Spain.
He recalled, “On the final day, while attending Mass, I couldn’t hold back my tears. That was the first time I truly faced myself.” The experience, he said, transformed his outlook. “My priorities shifted completely. I started being honest with myself and rethinking what truly matters in life.”
Beyond the emotional testimony, the episode also showcased Jung Il-woo’s love for food and cooking. Dining with host Huh Young-man, the actor passionately discussed his culinary skills, even revealing that he trained under celebrity chef Lee Yeon-bok for his role in the drama Sweet Munchies. “Cooking comforts me,” he shared, confidently answering food-related questions and demonstrating surprising culinary knowledge.
Now a 20-year veteran in the Korean entertainment industry, Jung Il-woo reflected on lighter moments too, like being scouted for an advertisement while casually drinking beer in Vietnam, and gaining the nickname “Prince of Hanbok” after appearing in six historical dramas.
