Lee Bong-ju, whose neck was bent 80 degrees by a rare disease, runs again: "Running is all about mental strength"

[Financial News] Nationally beloved marathoner Lee Bong-ju was seen running again after overcoming a long battle with illness and difficult rehabilitation.
A video titled "Mr. Bong-ju Runs Again Today" was recently released on SKT's official YouTube channel, showing Lee Bong-ju's daily life as he continues to run even after retiring.
Lee Bong-ju prepared to go out early in the morning. After having a simple meal, he left home, saying, "I'll be back."
Preparing for a marathon scheduled to take place in Gyeongju on the 19th, Lee Bong-ju was asked about the secret to his seemingly endless energy. He replied, "Running is all about mental strength. Mental strength. As long as I hold on to this mindset, I'll be fine."
When the conversation turned to running equipment, he smiled and said, "I don't have that kind of desire," adding, "Could I say these two legs are really expensive equipment?"
Lee Bong-ju particularly drew attention by running while maintaining his own pace. Saying that he does not worry about records or other people, he emphasized, "I never worry about that. I just go at my own pace."
Lee Bong-ju's running feels even more remarkable because he once endured a difficult period when even walking was a challenge.
In 2021, Lee Bong-ju revealed that he had been diagnosed with the rare disease Dystonia and was undergoing treatment. His serious condition became known through various television programs and other content, with reports that his neck had bent nearly 90 degrees, causing concern among many people.
After undergoing years of treatment and rehabilitation, however, he regained an ordinary daily life and was able to run again. The video also shows him overcoming the difficulties of the past, running alongside other runners, and sharing his experiences and know-how.
Through this challenge, Lee Bong-ju is delivering a message of hope: "You can run again."
[email protected] An Ga-eul Reporter