Cartoonist Huh Young-man Hospitalized Due to Health Issues, Halts All Activities Including 'Baekban Journey'

Cartoonist Huh Young-man (79) is suspending all public activities due to health issues.

Huh Young-man Inc. stated in an official statement today (June 17) that "Huh has recently experienced health problems and is currently hospitalized for treatment and recovery, following the advice of medical professionals," adding, "He plans to suspend all external activities for the time being to focus on rest and stability."

The company announced that they have reached an agreement with the production team to conclude Season 1 of the TV Chosun program 'Sikgaek Huh Young-man's Baekban Journey,' stating, "We would like to express our deep gratitude to the production staff, cast members, and viewers who have been with us for the past seven years."

Regarding this, TV Chosun stated, "We have decided to bring the journey to a close due to health reasons for Huh, who will soon be turning 80," adding, "To comfort the viewers, we will air a 'Special Episode' that encapsulates the touching moments and culinary journey of the past seven years."

The special broadcast, airing at 7:50 PM on June 21, will look back on conversations between Huh and the 365 guests who have appeared on 'Baekban Journey,' as well as the 2,131 local meals he encountered while traveling across the country.

Born in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province, in 1947 (1949 on his family register), Huh debuted in the comics industry in 1974 after winning the Hankook Ilbo New Cartoonist Contest with 'Finding Home.' He gained fame that same year with the comic 'Gaksital,' which was serialized in the Boy Hankook Ilbo.

Since then, he has been widely loved by the public for his works that were adapted into films and dramas, such as 'Fly Superboard,' 'Beat,' 'Tazza,' and 'Sikgaek.'

In an interview marking his 50th anniversary as a cartoonist in 2024, Huh reflected on his career, saying he decided to become a cartoonist during his high school years and devoted himself to studying drawing. He recalled, "At the time, I couldn't think of anything other than drawing comics. Even though I have an indecisive personality, my resolve to become a cartoonist never wavered."

Since 2019, Huh has been introducing local meals from across the country through TV Chosun's 'Sikgaek Huh Young-man's Baekban Journey.'

'Baekban Journey' has featured a wide range of guests, including actors such as Baek Il-seob and Go Doo-shim, singer Psy, and numerous politicians, including President Lee Jae-myung.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.