Top Korean actor Bae cuts Japan trip short due to illness

SEOUL, Oct. 3 (Yonhap) -- Top South Korean actor Bae Yong-joon has cut short a
promotional tour in Japan and returned home because of illness, his agency said
Saturday.
Bae's agency, BOF, said the actor returned to South Korea on Friday under stress
from continued big schedules and events. He was not, however, in serious
condition, BOF said.
The Korean actor traveled to Japan Sept. 27 to promote his photo essay book
"Travel in Search of Korea's Beauty," which covers broad areas of culture,
including cuisine, handicrafts, temples and dress-making. He was initially
scheduled to return home Monday.
Late last month, Bae was admitted to a hospital after his blood pressure and
blood sugar levels fell sharply. Test results showed he was suffering from the
early stages of blood deterioration, but was not in critical condition.
Bae stated last month at a press conference that he lost nearly 10kg during the
final days of writing the book from pressure to make his work as flawless as he
could.
"(He) will get enough rest in South Korea and greet fans in a healthy condition
as soon as possible," BOF said on its Web site.
The actor rose to stardom in neighboring Asian countries, including Japan, for
his lead role in "Winter Sonata," a 2002 drama about star-crossed lovers. Since
then, he has gained unprecedented popularity in the region.
odissy@yna.co.kr
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