Go Ji-yong (46), a former member of the idol group Sechs Kies, has once again come under health concerns after revealing his severely sunken cheeks.
Recently, Go Ji-yong conducted a live broadcast on his social media, sharing his recent updates after a long time.
He appeared in a comfortable gray hoodie and glasses, interacting with fans. However, his noticeably gaunt face caught attention. In particular, the sunken cheeks and overall pale appearance raised concerns among fans.
Some fans expressed worries, saying, "It seems like you've lost too much weight" and "Are you okay health-wise?" but he did not make any specific comments about his health condition.
In a YouTube broadcast in 2024, Go Ji-yong mentioned that he had entered the restaurant business and shared, "While working, I drank a lot and accumulated fatigue, and my health has deteriorated a bit."
When he appeared on KBS's 'The Men Who Cook Season 2' in 2025, he stated, "My liver enzymes spiked sharply, and I was hospitalized two years ago," adding, "The doctors told me not to drink even a drop of alcohol, so I didn't drink for six months." He said, "I was feeling very unwell at that time," and mentioned that his weight dropped to 63 kg at a height of 180 cm. However, it was reported that he has since recovered significantly.
Acute Liver Damage Causes Severe Fatigue and Weight Loss
The statement about liver enzymes spiking indicates that liver cells were damaged in a short period.
Liver enzymes refer to the concentrations of AST and ALT in the blood. AST and ALT enzymes are found within liver cells, and when liver cells are damaged, they leak into the bloodstream. A high concentration of these two enzymes in the blood indicates liver cell damage. Generally, ALT levels are considered more important than AST levels. This is because AST can also increase when cells in the heart, kidneys, brain, or muscles are damaged, while ALT is primarily related to liver cell damage. If either AST or ALT levels exceed 40 IU/L, hepatitis is suspected. Acute liver cell damage usually occurs due to acute hepatitis, drug or supplement toxicity, or ischemic liver damage.
When liver enzyme levels rise, symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, extreme fatigue, bruising, and nosebleeds may appear. Weight loss can also occur, as seen with Go Ji-yong. This is because when the liver is damaged, the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins is impaired. As a result, even if food is consumed, the body cannot use it effectively for energy and starts breaking down its own muscles. Severe fatigue and nausea from rising liver enzyme levels can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
To Maintain Healthy Liver, Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Supplements
To keep the liver healthy, it is advisable to abstain from alcohol as much as possible. If drinking, one should avoid binge drinking. Alcohol can damage liver cells. Overusing painkillers or taking them in combination can be dangerous. Recklessly consuming herbal medicine or diet supplements is also not good. Even if prescribed medication is taken, it is important to check the ingredients of over-the-counter medications or supplements to ensure there are no overlaps.
Frequent consumption of delivery food and lack of exercise can also harm liver health. A normal liver contains about 5% fat. Most delivery foods are high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. A diet centered around delivery food and meat increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
