Cha Joo-young’s Battle with Epistaxis: Surgery and Recovery

South Korean actress Cha Joo-young, known for her role in the hit series “The Glory,” recently underwent surgery to address recurrent and severe nosebleeds, a condition known as epistaxis. The actress has been open about her health struggles, sharing past photos and videos documenting the severity of her symptoms, prompting an outpouring of support from fans.

Understanding Epistaxis and Cha Joo-young’s Experience

Epistaxis refers to bleeding from the nose, nasal cavity, or nasopharynx. While occasional nosebleeds are common, recurrent epistaxis, as experienced by Cha Joo-young, can be a sign of an underlying issue. The actress initially announced she would be stepping back from official schedules in January 2026 to undergo treatment for the condition. Koreaboo reports that she shared images on Instagram on February 15, 2026, depicting the extent of her past nosebleeds, including a photo of significant blood loss on asphalt and a video showing continuous bleeding for over an hour.

Causes and Treatment of Recurrent Nosebleeds

The causes of epistaxis are varied. Most cases are idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. However, potential causes include trauma, tumors, post-nasal surgery complications, medication side effects, and foreign objects in the nose. In some instances, a deviated septum may contribute to recurrent nosebleeds, potentially requiring surgical correction. KDramaStars highlights that Cha Joo-young underwent detailed examinations and treatment before deciding to proceed with surgery.

Surgery and Recovery

Cha Joo-young’s agency, Ghost Studio, announced on January 25, 2026, that the actress would be temporarily suspending her activities to undergo otolaryngology (ENT) surgery. MK.co.kr reports that the surgery was deemed necessary by her medical team and could not be postponed. She is currently in the post-operative recovery and observation phase, impacting her ability to participate in scheduled events, including promotional activities for the film “Sister” and the ENA drama “Climax.”

Fan Reactions and Support

The actress’s openness about her health struggles has resonated with fans, who have expressed their concern and support online. Many shared their own experiences with nosebleeds, while others wished her a speedy recovery. Comments on theqoo, as reported by Koreaboo, demonstrate a strong outpouring of positive sentiment and encouragement.

Looking Ahead

Cha Joo-young’s decision to prioritize her health and undergo surgery underscores the importance of addressing chronic medical conditions. As she continues her recovery, fans eagerly await her return to the screen. Her willingness to share her experience may also raise awareness about epistaxis and encourage others to seek medical attention for recurrent nosebleeds.