Disease Affecting 17,000 People in Korea
Itchy or Rash Symptoms on Sun-Exposed Body Parts
Former German Chancellor's Wife Also Suffered
Extreme Choice Made in 2001
[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Juhyung] The sudden tragic news of comedian Park Ji-sun (36) has shocked many, and it has been revealed that Park Ji-sun suffered from a condition known as 'sunlight allergy.' In previous interviews, Park Ji-sun expressed difficulties due to this condition, stating that she could not properly apply makeup or perform makeup effects and found outdoor activities challenging.
Sunlight allergy is a condition where exposure to sunlight causes skin rashes or itching. Types include polymorphic light eruption, which causes blisters on the skin after sun exposure; pompholyx-like blisters, which cause redness and swelling on the cheeks, nose bridge, neck, and back of the hands; and chronic actinic dermatitis, which causes itching on sun-exposed areas of the body.
The exact cause of this condition is currently unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic factors. It can also be triggered or worsened by chemical substances found in antibiotics, painkillers, perfumes, disinfectants, sunscreens, or pre-existing dermatitis.
Currently, over 17,000 people in South Korea suffer from skin allergy diseases. According to data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of sunlight allergy patients was 17,280 last year, showing a steady decline since 20,704 in 2015.
On the afternoon of August 16, when a heatwave advisory was issued after the monsoon season ended, Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. / Photo by Yonhap News
In severe cases, treatment with steroid ointments, antihistamines, and other medications may be necessary. Phototherapy, where special lamps are applied to the body 1 to 3 times a week, is also used.
Sunlight allergy can be extremely painful, especially in severe cases. Hannelore Kohl, the wife of former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, suffered from sunlight allergy and tragically ended her life in 2001.
At the time, the office of former Chancellor Kohl released a statement to local media saying, "Mrs. Hannelore Kohl took her own life due to despair over the hopelessness of curing her illness." She had been suffering from the condition since 1993 and was cared for at home, but as her condition worsened, she developed severe depression.
Meanwhile, Park Ji-sun also spoke about her struggles with sunlight allergy in a 2012 interview with 'Hankyoreh.'
She explained why she appeared on broadcasts and events without makeup, saying, "It's because of my skin. During my second year of high school winter break, I was diagnosed with acne at a dermatology clinic, and not wanting to lose study time, I underwent several skin-peeling treatments in a short period." She added, "My skin completely broke out. It was painful, swollen, and oozing to the point where I considered taking a leave of absence."
The funeral hall for comedian Park Ji-sun and her mother was set up on the 2nd at Ewha Mokdong Hospital in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul. / Photo by Yonhap News
She continued, "After resting in a place with good air, my skin looked better externally, but since then, I cannot even apply skin lotion. Once I apply it, my skin completely breaks out again," adding, "It's like my skin has no protective barrier."
She also said, "After becoming a comedian, I couldn't keep hiding the condition. If I didn't wear makeup, I would look lazy and careless," and added, "If I had chosen another profession, I might have avoided these challenges, but since I entered a field that requires makeup, I guess I'm unique."
It has been reported that Park Ji-sun’s skin condition worsened recently, making it difficult for her to keep up with her schedule. On the afternoon of the 2nd, she was found dead at her home in Mapo-gu, Seoul, along with her mother.
According to the police, no external injuries were found, and a note resembling a suicide letter found at the scene mentioned her illness. The police decided not to conduct an autopsy on Park Ji-sun, respecting the wishes of her family.
The deceased’s funeral was held at Ewha Mokdong Hospital Funeral Hall in Seoul on the same day. The funeral procession is scheduled for 7 a.m. on the 5th, and the burial site is Byeokje Seunghwawon.
※ If you or someone around you is struggling with difficult thoughts such as depression, you can receive 24-hour professional counseling through suicide prevention hotlines ☎1577-0199, Hope Phone ☎129, Lifeline ☎1588-9191, and Youth Phone ☎1388.
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