Super Junior member Kim Heechul has spoken out about the long-term effects of his 2006 car accident, revealing that his height had decreased significantly due to severe leg injuries.
During the October 31st broadcast of KBS Joy’s “Hit song of the 20th century” (Episode 287), themed “Singers Who Overcame Pain,” the show revisited inspiring stories of artists who returned to the stage after facing serious challenges.
When the segment featured rock singer Kim Kyung Ho, who suffered avascular necrosis in the head of his femur but continued to perform, Heechul shared his experience of empathy:
“I can understand this because my femur was also completely damaged. My height actually decreased, I was around 185cm,” he confessed.
Kim Heechul’s current height is known to be 176cm.
In 2006, Kim Heechul was involved in a serious car accident while returning from a Super Junior program. The accident left him with multiple fractures, including his left ankle, femur and hip bone, which required a major operation to insert seven metal pins.
After extensive treatment and rehabilitation, he was officially classified as having a level 4 physical disability in the Korean medical evaluation system.
Heechul had previously shared his emotional struggles on his YouTube channel.
“It must have been about 10 years ago. The doctors said I might never walk again and that long flights would be impossible. For this reason I also got an exemption from military reserve training.” he said.
“When I went to get my disability certificate, I felt so confused and ashamed that I ended up leaving and going home.”
Her honesty struck a chord with viewers, many of whom praised her resilience and vulnerability as she discussed both her physical and mental recovery.
After the broadcast, fans flooded online communities with words of support:
- He’s always been open about his scars, and that’s why people love him.
- I can’t believe he went through all of this and still performs with a smile.
- He is living proof that strength is not about perfection.
Kim Heechul continues to appear on variety shows and maintains a strong presence as both a performer and entertainer, often using humor to mask pain, a testament to his enduring spirit.
Sources: Daum
