Choi Jun-hee’s Candid Confession: Living with Pelvic Necrosis and the Pressures of Fame

Choi Jun-hee’s Heartfelt Revelation: The Pain of Pelvic Necrosis

Did you know that Choi Jun-hee, the daughter of the late Korean actress Choi Jin-sil, has been bravely sharing her battle with pelvic necrosis? On June 24, 2025, Jun-hee opened up to her fans during a live broadcast on Instagram, revealing the harsh reality of living with this rare and painful condition. She described her bones as 'rotting,' explaining that there is no concept of recovery for her situation. This honest confession resonated deeply with many fans, who expressed their concern and support. Pelvic necrosis, medically known as avascular necrosis of the femoral head, is a disease where poor blood supply causes bone tissues to die, leading to severe pain and mobility issues. Jun-hee’s openness about her struggle has brought much-needed attention to this little-known condition.

From Lupus to Pelvic Necrosis: A History of Health Challenges

Choi Jun-hee’s health journey has been anything but easy. Before her diagnosis with pelvic necrosis, she had already battled lupus, an autoimmune disease that caused her weight to soar to 96kg. Determined to reclaim her health and confidence, Jun-hee embarked on a rigorous weight loss journey, eventually reaching 41.9kg at a height of 170cm. Her transformation was not just physical but also mental, as she faced public scrutiny and online criticism about her appearance. The intersection of chronic illness and public life has made her story especially poignant for fans who see her as both vulnerable and resilient.

The Pressures of Body Image in Korean Celebrity Culture

Korean entertainment culture is notorious for its intense focus on appearance and body image. Jun-hee’s candid remarks about her weight loss—fitting into XXS sizes and maintaining a strict Korean diet—sparked both admiration and concern among netizens. Some worried she was too thin, while others praised her discipline. Jun-hee addressed these comments head-on, stating that telling someone who has worked hard to lose weight to 'stop losing more' can be hurtful. Her experience highlights the double-edged sword of celebrity in Korea, where public figures are often judged harshly for both gaining and losing weight.

Living with Chronic Pain: How Pelvic Necrosis Affects Daily Life

Pelvic necrosis is not just a medical term—it’s a daily reality for Jun-hee. She has described how the disease, now in its third stage, causes intense pain in her left lower body, making even simple movements like standing up or walking emotionally and physically exhausting. The pain has also taken a toll on her mental health, leading to moments of sadness and isolation. Despite these challenges, Jun-hee continues to engage with her fans, using her platform to raise awareness about invisible illnesses and the importance of empathy.

Plastic Surgery and Self-Acceptance: Jun-hee’s Honest Reflections

In addition to her health struggles, Jun-hee has been open about her experiences with plastic surgery. She recently underwent a lower eyelid surgery, which she described as the most painful procedure she’s ever had. After this experience, she expressed her intention to stop further cosmetic surgeries, stating that she is finally satisfied with her appearance. This declaration was met with support from fans, many of whom appreciated her honesty and vulnerability. In Korean pop culture, where cosmetic enhancements are common and often expected, Jun-hee’s decision to embrace her natural self is both bold and refreshing.

Navigating Media Scrutiny and Online Negativity

Being in the public eye comes with its own set of challenges. Jun-hee revealed that she feels immense pressure from negative media coverage, admitting that harsh articles and online comments can be overwhelming. She pleaded for kinder, more positive stories, highlighting the emotional toll that constant scrutiny can take on young celebrities. This struggle is familiar to many Korean idols and influencers, who often face intense public judgment and cyberbullying. Jun-hee’s candidness about her mental health and the impact of media negativity has sparked important conversations about the need for compassion in celebrity culture.

Fashion, Modeling, and Redefining Beauty Standards

Despite her health battles, Jun-hee has not let her condition define her ambitions. In August 2024, she made a surprise debut as a fashion model and later walked the runway at Seoul Fashion Week 2025. Her presence on the catwalk challenged conventional beauty standards, inspiring fans and industry insiders alike. By embracing her unique journey and refusing to hide her struggles, Jun-hee is helping to broaden the definition of beauty in Korean pop culture.

Cultural Insight: Why Choi Jun-hee’s Story Resonates with Global Fans

For international fans, understanding Jun-hee’s story requires some cultural context. In Korea, the legacy of her mother, Choi Jin-sil—a beloved actress whose tragic life and death left a lasting mark on the nation—adds another layer of complexity to Jun-hee’s public persona. As the daughter of a national icon, Jun-hee’s every move is closely watched by both the media and the public. Her willingness to speak openly about her vulnerabilities, health struggles, and personal growth makes her a relatable and inspiring figure for fans around the world, especially those who have faced similar challenges.

Community Reactions: Empathy, Support, and the Power of Sharing

Jun-hee’s recent live broadcast and subsequent news coverage have generated widespread discussion on Korean blogs and social media. Many commenters expressed empathy for her pain, commending her bravery in sharing such personal details. Others debated the pressures of celebrity life and the need for more supportive online communities. International fans, in particular, have rallied around Jun-hee, sharing messages of encouragement and solidarity. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, understanding, and the healing power of community.