Appearing as a guest on tvN’s popular talk show You Quiz on the Block, Lee 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 motorcycle 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 required 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 I might not make it,” Lee recalled. “When I finally woke up, the pain was unbearable. I don’t think I could have survived without painkillers. Some colleagues who came to visit believed I wouldn’t live and had already prepared condolence money.”
The tragic incident also led to another devastating loss. Lee revealed that his father, who had been recovering well in the hospital, suffered a sudden decline after hearing about the accident and passed away shortly afterward. “My father’s hospital room was right next to mine,” Lee said tearfully. “When he passed away, I couldn’t even go to see him or light incense because I was unable to walk.”
Due to concerns over his mental state, hospital staff reportedly installed iron bars on his window, fearing he might attempt to harm himself during recovery. Following the accident, Lee Deok-hwa was officially classified as a Level 3 person with disabilities. During the broadcast, Lee also expressed deep gratitude toward his wife, thanking her for standing by him throughout 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 hit dramas such as Business Proposal, The Red Sleeve, Jewel in the Palace, Hotel King, and many more.
Sources: kenh14