Actor Lee Kyun Undergoes Surgery for Shoulder Injury Sustained in Vietnam
Actor Lee Kyun, known for his roles in Korean dramas and his recent business ventures in Vietnam, underwent surgery in Korea for an acromioclavicular (AC) joint rupture. The injury occurred during an unexpected incident while he was in Vietnam, as he shared on his social media account on .
According to a post on his social media, Lee Kyun described the injury as “really absurd,” explaining that he was injured while attempting to avoid a young girl playing. He had been experiencing pain since , but access to medical care was delayed due to the national holiday in Vietnam. He made the decision to return to Korea for surgical intervention, stating he felt more comfortable receiving treatment in his home country.
Understanding Acromioclavicular Joint Ruptures
The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is located where the clavicle (collarbone) meets the acromion, a part of the shoulder blade. An AC joint rupture, often referred to as a shoulder separation, involves damage to the ligaments that hold these bones together. The severity of the injury varies, ranging from a mild sprain to a complete tear of the ligaments. Symptoms typically include pain at the top of the shoulder, swelling, bruising and difficulty lifting the arm.
The mechanism of injury often involves a direct blow to the shoulder, a fall onto the shoulder, or, as in Lee Kyun’s case, an unexpected force. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and X-rays to assess the extent of the ligament damage. Treatment options depend on the severity of the rupture. Mild sprains may be managed with conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with pain medication. More severe ruptures, particularly those involving complete ligament tears, often require surgical intervention to restore stability to the AC joint.
Surgical Intervention and Recovery
While details regarding the specific surgical procedure Lee Kyun underwent have not been released, surgical repair of AC joint ruptures typically involves reattaching the torn ligaments to their original attachment points on the clavicle and acromion. This can be accomplished using various techniques, including sutures, anchors, or a combination of both.
The recovery process following AC joint surgery can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the surgical technique used. Generally, patients are advised to wear a sling for several weeks to protect the healing joint. Physical therapy is a crucial component of rehabilitation, focusing on restoring range of motion, strength, and function to the shoulder. Full recovery can take several months, and a gradual return to activities is recommended to avoid re-injury.
Lee Kyun’s Career and Recent Activities
Lee Kyun began his career as a member of the K-pop group ‘Yuppie’ in 1997 before transitioning to acting. He has appeared in several Korean dramas and films, including ‘Hello Francesca,’ ‘Please Give Me a Star,’ and ‘Tower of Fantasy.’ After a period of reduced activity in the Korean entertainment industry following his role in tvN’s ‘The Three Musketeers’ in 2014, he relocated to Vietnam to pursue a business venture focused on coffee.
He has reportedly found success in the Vietnamese coffee market. He recently returned to Korean television with appearances on KBS2’s ‘Pursuing an Old Meeting’ in July 2025 and ‘The Logic.’ His recent surgery is expected to temporarily interrupt his professional activities as he focuses on recovery.
Lee Kyun expressed gratitude to those who assisted him in locating medical facilities in Vietnam, acknowledging their efforts even though he ultimately chose to undergo surgery in Korea. He shared that his brother successfully underwent surgery in Korea as well, contributing to his peace of mind in choosing to receive treatment at home.
Disclaimer: This article provides general medical information and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals experiencing shoulder pain or injury should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
