Former Soccer Player Kang Ji-yong Passes Away at 37

Cheonan, South Korea – Kang Ji-yong, a former professional soccer player known for his appearance on JTBC‘s ‘Divorce Camp,’ has died at the age of 37. He passed away on October 22, and his obituary was publicly announced on October 23 by former soccer player Koo Bon-sang via social media.

The mortuary is set up in Room 2 of the funeral hall at Cheonan Hospital, which is associated with Soonchunhyang University in Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do. The funeral service is scheduled for October 25 at 6:30 a.m. at Cheonan Memorial Park.

Kang gained attention in February while appearing as one half of a couple on ‘Divorce Camp.’ During the show, he candidly discussed ongoing financial issues with his wife, Lee Da-eun. Viewers were taken aback when he expressed deep emotional distress, stating, ‘My wish is to die while sleeping,’ and ‘I want to die too much.’

Although the exact cause of Kang’s death has not been disclosed, his passing has brought great sorrow to his surviving family, including Lee Da-eun and their daughter, Chae-eun. They are currently receiving mourners at the funeral home.

Born in 1989, Kang left an imprint on South Korean soccer as he made his professional debut in the 2009 K-League draft, selected 5th by the Pohang Steelers. Over the years, he played for several teams, including Busan I’Park, Bucheon FC 1995, Gangwon FC, and Incheon United, before retiring in 2022. Post-retirement, Kang found a platform in broadcasting and was also noted for being a cousin of Kwon Eun-bi from the popular girl group IZ*ONE.