Winter of aespa has recently undergone surgery for pneumothorax and is currently recuperating. The news was initially reported by South Korean media outlet Ten Asia on Friday (12/4/2024), and was later confirmed by SM Entertainment.
This unexpected development concerning Winter’s health has understandably startled fans, as pneumothorax is also known as a collapsed lung. Curious about the latest updates and Winter’s condition? Let’s delve into the details below.
1. Confirmation of Winter’s Surgery by SM Entertainment
After reports surfaced regarding Winter’s illness, SM Entertainment corroborated the news to South Korean media outlet Hankook Kyungjae. A representative from the agency provided the following statement:
“Winter is currently recovering from pneumothorax surgery. Due to the potential for recurrence, surgery was deemed necessary after consultation with medical professionals as a precautionary measure. Winter’s upcoming schedule will be approached with caution, with her health being the top priority.”
Winter underwent the surgery at a hospital in Seoul following her commitments in Japan, specifically at Venues 101. The operation took place on Thursday (11/4/2024).
2. Understanding Pneumothorax, AKA Collapsed Lung
Pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, occurs when air enters the pleural cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, exerting pressure that can cause lung collapse.
Typical symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, and weakness. Pneumothorax can develop gradually over time or result from an injury. While SM Entertainment has not disclosed specific details about Winter’s condition, it’s evident that her health has been affected.
3. Recovery Period and Future Plans
Following pneumothorax surgery, patients usually require 2 to 3 days of hospitalization for initial recovery. However, the full recovery period varies, ranging from one to two months, depending on individual circumstances. Despite this, SM Entertainment has not provided a precise timeline for Winter’s recovery.
Aespa is anticipated to make a comeback around May, followed by concert performances from June to September. Whether Winter will participate in these future endeavors remains uncertain.
As emphasized by SM Entertainment, scheduling will be adjusted to prioritize Winter’s well-being. Here’s hoping for a speedy and complete recovery for Winter, and that she returns to the stage when fully recuperated.