Kang Yonghee, the "Phoenix Grandfather" Who Overcame Cancer Six Times in 38 Years, Passes Away

Nicknamed the "Phoenix"...A Symbol of Hope
"Life Isn't That Long. I Was Happy Until the End"

Kang Yonghee, known as the "Phoenix Grandfather" for overcoming cancer six times over 38 years, has passed away.

On August 18, Yonhap News Agency, citing Jeonbuk National University Hospital, reported that Mr. Kang died at the age of 83 in the hospice ward of Jeonbuk National University Hospital the previous day.

Mr. Kang Yonghee, the "Phoenix Grandfather" who overcame cancer six times over 38 years, passed away on the 17th. On the right is his wife, Lee Yangsoon. Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Yonhap News Agency

From 1988 until recently, the late Mr. Kang received treatment in 21 different medical departments over 38 years, overcoming cancer six times. During this period, he underwent more than 10 surgeries and was treated in the emergency room 45 times.

Nicknamed the "Phoenix"...A Symbol of Hope

Having fought illness for many years and survived numerous brushes with death, Mr. Kang was nicknamed "Phoenix" by his family and friends. His story became widely known through various media, including the SBS program "Capture the Moment: Unbelievable Stories," and he was recognized as a symbol of hope for patients with terminal cancer and other incurable diseases. During his lifetime, Mr. Kang cited a positive mindset, regular medical checkups, and his family's devoted love as the secrets to overcoming illness.

After overcoming cancer for the sixth time, Mr. Kang was recently diagnosed with a seventh cancer (multiple myeloma) and received treatment before being transferred to the hospice ward for dignified care. In the hospice ward, he spent time with his family, prepared for his farewell, and even chose a smiling portrait for his memorial, maintaining a positive attitude until the very end.

"Life Isn't That Long. I Was Happy Until the End"

Mr. Kang left the words, "Life isn't as long as you think. But I was happy until the end." He also expressed his gratitude to the medical staff at Jeonbuk National University Hospital. His family said, "The care in the hospice ward was a gift-like time for us," and added, "We are deeply grateful to the medical staff who did their very best until the end."

Yang Jongcheol, director of Jeonbuk National University Hospital, stated, "For 38 years, Mr. Kang was with our hospital, showing hope and courage, and he trusted our medical staff until the very end. We will remember the resonance of his life and continue to practice patient-centered, compassionate care."

The funeral is being held in Special Room 1 of the Jeonbuk National University Hospital funeral hall, and the burial is scheduled for August 20.