Singer-actress Uhm recovers from cancer

By Lee Hyo-won

It became belatedly known that singer-actress Uhm Jung-hwa received treatment for thyroid cancer in May.

"Uhm Jung-hwa was diagnosed with the early stages thyroid of cancer and underwent surgery in May. The surgery was successful and she has since fully recovered",the 41-year-old's agency Sim Entertainment said Wednesday.

The news caught many by surprise since Uhm had been appearing regularly in the public spotlight, including as a judge for the "American Idol"-style talent recruitment TV program "Superstar K2".

"Very few people knew about her condition, including her family and the head of her management agency. Other staff members of Sim were also surprised to hear the overdue news. They say thyroid diseases usually last a lifetime but thyroid cancer is actually more easily treatable. Uhm has been pursuing her career without difficulty", said the agency.

Uhm was taking a break after shooting the film "Bestseller" earlier this year when she decided to have a general checkup. Cancer cells were discovered and she immediately went under the knife. The surgery left no scars.

Her fans have expressed surprise, concern and admiration. "It's amazing that she managed to appear on `Superstar K2', which requires shooting late into the night. It's very professional of her", said one netizen.

Uhm has appeared at various award ceremonies and movie premieres, as well as the commemoration event for the second anniversary of the death of the late actress Choi Jin-sil. The finale of "Superstar K2" featuring Uhm is due to air Friday, after which she plans to receive a follow-up medical checkup.