Appearing as a guest on tvN’s popular talk show Take the block quizLee Deok-hwa revealed that he was once dragged under a 10-ton bus while riding his motorcycle. Recalling the terrifying moment, the actor said: “My motorbike was crushed by a 10-ton bus. I was trapped underneath and dragged along the road.”
The accident left Lee in critical condition. He underwent more than 50 surgeries and needed 1,500 stitches to survive. He remained unconscious for 14 days, during which doctors repeatedly warned his family to prepare for the worst.
“Every day the doctors told my family that maybe I wouldn’t make it” Lee recalled. “When I finally woke up, the pain was unbearable. I don’t think I would have survived without painkillers. Some colleagues who came to see me believed I wouldn’t survive and had already prepared condolence money.”
The tragic accident also led to another devastating loss. Lee revealed that his father, who had been recovering well in hospital, suffered a sudden decline after hearing about the accident and died shortly after. “My dad’s hospital room was right next to mine” Lee said tearfully. “When he died, I couldn’t even go to see him or light incense because I couldn’t walk.”
Due to concerns about his mental state, hospital staff reportedly installed iron bars on his window, fearing he might try to harm himself during his recovery. Following the accident, Lee Deok-hwa was officially classified as a person with a level 3 disability. During the broadcast, Lee also expressed deep gratitude towards his wife, thanking her for being by his side during his long and painful fight for survival.
Born in 1952, Lee Deok-hwa is one of South Korea’s most respected veteran actors, beloved by generations of viewers. His extensive filmography includes successful dramas such as Commercial proposal, The red sleeve, Jewel in the Palace, King Hoteland many others.
Sources: kenh14
