35-year-old K-drama actress faces health scare, halts work for urgent surgery and recovery

(Seoul, Jan 28) South Korean actress Cha Joo-young, 35, rose to wider fame for her role as the “villainous flight attendant” Choi Hye-jeong in the hit drama The Glory. She also visited Hong Kong last year for the 2025 MAMA Awards. Recently, her agency Ghost Studio released an urgent statement announcing that Cha will undergo surgery due to health issues and will suspend all activities to focus on recovery.

According to overseas media reports citing the agency’s statement, Cha has been struggling with recurring nosebleeds for an extended period. After thorough medical examinations and ongoing treatment, doctors concluded that she needed an otolaryngology (ENT) procedure. The agency confirmed that Cha has successfully completed the surgery and is currently recovering under medical observation.

Cha’s Korean thriller film Sister, co-starring actor Lee Soo-hyuk, was released in South Korea on the 28th. She was originally scheduled to attend promotional events, but due to her health condition, she will be absent from all upcoming publicity activities.

Ghost Studio stated that Cha’s health is the top priority and the company will fully support her recovery. The agency asked for public understanding regarding her temporary hiatus.