"His Neck Was Bent at a 90-Degree Angle"... Lee Bong-ju Completes Half Marathon After Overcoming Rare Disease

[Financial News]  Lee Bong-ju, the beloved national marathoner, is receiving support after being seen running again following a difficult battle with illness and rehabilitation.
An update on Lee Bong-ju was recently shared through "Mr. Bong-ju Runs Again Today: We Are Running Mates, Part 1," released by SK Telecom.
Lee Bong-ju previously revealed in 2021 that he had been diagnosed with the rare disease dystonia and was undergoing treatment, prompting widespread concern. His condition was later reported to have been so serious that his neck was bent at a 90-degree angle, as shown in various broadcasts and other content.
However, Lee Bong-ju never gave up on his goal of running again. After consistently undergoing rehabilitation, he appeared before the public in significantly improved physical condition.
In June, he also appeared on singer Sean’s YouTube channel, "With Sean." At the time, Lee Bong-ju said, "My physical condition is currently about 80 percent," adding, "I get up every morning and start my day with marathon training, and I am continuing to build up my body."
He was also clear about his goal. "Now I have to work my way up to a half marathon," he said. "There is also something called a dead point in marathon running. In any case, I have to overcome that on my own. If I give up, it ends there, but if I endure without giving up and push through it, a good moment will come," he said, expressing his determination.
Lee Bong-ju followed through by competing in the 2026 Gold Coast Marathon, held in Queensland last July. He completed the half-marathon course in 1 hour, 39 minutes and 55 seconds, making a successful return to competition. On the 19th, he is scheduled to meet fans at the 2026 Infinite Challenge Run in Gyeongju.
Lee Bong-ju also shared his mindset toward running. He said, "Running is about mental strength. As long as I keep my mind focused, I will be fine," adding, "I do not worry about other people and run at my own pace."



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