South Korean actor Kim Woo Bin made his highly anticipated return to the screen with the September 13 release of Netflix's action-packed film 'Officer Black Belt'. As part of the film's promotion, Kim has been sharing more about his personal experiences, including his fight with cancer.

In a recent YouTube interview, Kim Woo Bin spoke openly about his battle with nasopharyngeal cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2017. At that time, his agency, Sidus HQ, released a statement confirming that the 'Uncontrollably Fond' actor had started radiation treatment and would be taking a break from his acting career to focus on his health.

After completing treatment, Kim was exempted from South Korea's mandatory military service. In 2019, fans were relieved to hear that the actor had fully recovered from the illness.

Kim's positive outlook during cancer journey

Kim described himself as "naturally a positive person" and said he always tries to find the bright side in any situation. He recounted how hearing the doctor’s words

"If it’s short, you only have six months to live" felt like a scene from a drama.

Despite the fear and shock, he said, "I never thought, 'What if I can’t overcome this?' That thought never crossed my mind."

He focused on keeping a positive attitude throughout the difficult period and saw it as a chance to rest, regain his strength, and come back stronger. He added that the support and prayers from people who recognised him gave him the strength to continue.

"So many people, just because they knew my face, offered their support and prayers," he said.

"I want to pass on the prayers I received to as many people as possible," the actor added.

Kim Woo Bin's charity work

In 2022, South Korean media outlet MK Sports reported that Kim donated 100 million won to the Hope Bridge Disaster Relief Association to help wildfire victims in Uljin, Gyeongbuk, and Samcheok. In 2023, he donated another 100 million won to Seoul’s Asan Medical Centre to help cover medical expenses for underprivileged patients.

Projects since his return

Following his recovery, Kim returned to the screen in the 2022 sci-fi film 'Alienoid', where he starred alongside Ryu Jun Yeol and Kim Tae Ri. He reprised his role in the film's sequel, 'Alienoid: Return to the Future', in 2024.

On the K-drama side, he starred in 'Our Blues' (2022) and Netflix’s 'Black Knight' (2023), further cementing his popularity on the streaming platform.

Kim’s latest film, 'Officer Black Belt', is now available on Netflix, and he is set to reunite with Bae Suzy, his co-star from 'Uncontrollably Fond', in the upcoming Netflix series 'All The Love You Wish For'.

In a surprising move, Kim also joined EXO’s DO (Doh Kyungsoo), Lee Kwang Soo, and Kim Ki Bang as a farmer on the variety show 'GBRB Reap What You Sow' (2023), where they work together on a farm in a heartwarming twist to their usual on-screen roles.