Lee Joo Ahn, who recently had a breakout role in the hit drama Bon Appétit, Your Majesty, has shared the deeply personal story of how he donated a portion of his liver to save his mother’s life.
The topic of his mandatory military service came up in an interview with SPOTV News on October 1, 2025. “I was actually exempt from military service,” he calmly revealed. “I donated part of my liver to my mother when I was 22. I received a military exemption after that.”
He recounted the dramatic moment, saying, “My mother’s liver health was already poor. I received a call that her condition had suddenly worsened due to cirrhosis, and she had fallen into a coma, so I rushed to the hospital.”
He continued, “She needed an emergency transplant, and I immediately consented to be the donor.” The procedure was a major operation, requiring doctors to remove 70% of his liver for the transplant.
Fortunately, his mother’s condition improved greatly after the surgery, and she is now able to proudly watch her son’s success. “Now, I just feel happy,” Lee Joo Ahn smiled. “My mother loves it so much. I feel like she can finally tell people around her, ‘My son is an actor.'”
Lee Jo Ahn played the fan-favorite character Gong-gil, a secret assassin posing as a jester, in the recently concluded hit series. “All of this is thanks to the viewers who enjoyed the show,” he said. “I am grateful to everyone. I will continue to work hard and hope to see you in many more great projects.
Post a Comment