Actress Kim Hye-ja cancels film events due to health concerns

South Korean actress Kim Hye-ja has canceled scheduled appearances due to health concerns, specifically symptoms of a cold. The 85-year-old actress was unable to attend a stage greeting for her film ‘Still Radiantly’ at the Busan International Film Festival and a previous press screening in Seoul.

Concerns regarding her health initially surfaced during the Busan International Film Festival opening ceremony, where she was seen coughing and requiring assistance while walking the red carpet. While representatives previously dismissed these as minor cold symptoms, her subsequent absence from official events has increased public concern.

Director Song Il-gon announced her absence, noting that she expressed her regrets and affection for the project through a handwritten letter. The film, which marks Kim’s return to the big screen after nine years, follows the story of a woman reuniting with a lifelong friend and is scheduled for release on the 21st.