Veteran actress Kim Hye-ja recently released a touching handwritten letter to fans and reporters after abruptly canceling her scheduled stage greeting ahead of a film event, sparking widespread concern over her health.
The upcoming movie ‘Still Brilliant’ (directed by Song Il-gon) unveiled the heartfelt letter written by Kim Hye-ja herself, expressing her genuine thoughts and deep gratitude to the press and audience who attended the press preview.
Kim Hye-ja Expresses Gratitude in Handwritten Letter
In her letter, Kim Hye-ja shared, "It feels a little nervous to stand before you all today. It has been a long time since I last worked on a film, and it feels just as long since I stood in front of all of you who came to watch." She continued to explain her motivation for joining the project and the core message the film aims to deliver.
Reflecting on historical pain and memory, she wrote, "I hope you do not look at the two young girls you will meet shortly as merely a scene from a painful history. There are things that truly become forgotten if we do not remember them. However, I believe that if we hold them in our hearts without forgetting, even a small light from a long time ago can illuminate us once again."
Abrupt Event Cancellation and Recent Health Concerns
Prior to the letter’s release, the film production team announced that the stage greeting scheduled at Megabox COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, had to be canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, though the press screening itself proceeded as planned.
Following the cancellation, public concern regarding Kim Hye-ja’s health has grown. The 85-year-old actress (born in 1941) previously sparked health rumors when she attended the 31st Busan International Film Festival. Walking the red carpet alongside director Song Il-gon, she was seen receiving support and coughing multiple times while covering her mouth, which left many fans worried.
Although representatives for the film have previously downplayed rumors concerning her health, the last-minute cancellation of her scheduled appearance has renewed public anxiety regarding the legendary actress’s well-being.
