Jobaaj Stories
đź“° Kang Ji-yong: Former South Korean Footballer Passes Away at 36
On April 22, 2025, the South Korean football community was struck with sorrow as Kang Ji-yong, a former footballer, passed away at the age of 36. Known for his remarkable career on the field, Kang’s life took a tragic turn in the years following his retirement. In his final days, he publicly shared the immense personal and financial challenges that had defined much of his later life.
The Struggles Behind Kang Ji-yong’s Life
Before his untimely death, Kang had appeared on JTBC’s reality program "Divorce Camp", where he candidly spoke about his financial hardships and emotional struggles. During the show, Kang revealed that his parents had taken the entirety of his lifetime earnings from his football career. This situation not only caused financial strain but also took an emotional toll on him. He also disclosed that he had co-signed a loan for his older brother, who unfortunately passed away by suicide. These events contributed to a series of personal challenges for Kang, leaving him in deep emotional distress.
Impact on His Family and Fans
Kang Ji-yong’s passing has left his family and the football community heartbroken. His candidness on the reality show brought attention to the difficult financial and emotional circumstances that many athletes face after their careers end. Despite the struggles, Kang remained resilient, hoping to work through his personal issues publicly in the hope that it would raise awareness and prevent others from facing similar challenges.
Following his death, JTBC took swift action, removing all previously aired segments featuring Kang and his wife from the program. The network stated that it was out of respect for his family and his tragic passing.
Remembering Kang Ji-yong
Kang Ji-yong’s story is one of resilience, loss, and vulnerability. He may no longer be with us, but his bravery in sharing his journey will continue to inspire others to confront their own struggles and seek help when needed.
