Comedian Kim Shin-young, 41, kept vigil at the bedside of her mentor and senior Jeon Yoo-sung through his final hours―even while juggling a packed broadcast schedule.
Early on the 26th, fellow comedian Lee Kyung-sil wrote on social media that “a towering figure in our comedy world has left us,” and shared memories of her last moments with Jeon.
“After a Wednesday taping, the rain was coming down in sheets,” Lee recalled. “I left around 2 p.m. and reached Jeonbuk National University Hospital at about 5:30. With his daughter and son-in-law there, Kim Shin-young was by his side, swapping cool towels and caring for him. Watching a devoted student give her all was both admirable and moving.”
Despite hosting MBC Radio, the comedian recently tapped special guest DJs to cover her shifts so she could keep watch at Jeon’s hospital room.
Kim studied under Jeon when he served on the faculty of the Comedy Department at Yewon Arts University. They stayed close after she graduated, and she often turned to him for steady guidance during tough stretches.
In 2022, she shared a photo with Jeon holding a bouquet, writing, “Professor gave me flowers ― it feels like the first day of school. I’m grateful and reassured.”
A beloved anecdote shows the kind of wisdom he offered. When Kim once told him, “Professor, I think I’m washed up,” Jeon replied, “Congratulations. When one tide goes out, then a second and a third, you become a treasure. You’re going to be a treasure ― just wait and see.”
Jeon died of a pneumothorax at 9:05 p.m. on the 25th at Jeonbuk National University Hospital. The wake is at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, and funeral services will be conducted by the comedians’ association.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)