"I wish to die in my sleep"… Late Kang Ji-yong’s heartfelt final words revealed

The words of late former football player Kang Ji-yong have resurfaced, leaving many feeling heartbroken.

His final confession, expressing that "death was his wish" under the weight of life after retirement, sheds light on the unseen struggles and inner pain of athletes post-retirement in our society.

From a promising defender to a breadwinner worried about livelihood

Kang debuted on the professional stage when he was drafted 5th overall by Pohang Steelers in the 2009 K League Draft. He played for over a decade, contributing to various teams including Busan IPark, Bucheon FC 1995, Gangwon FC, and Incheon United.

He was once a highly regarded defender with a salary reaching 150 million won.

However, life became challenging after his retirement at the end of the 2022 season. In an appearance on JTBC's reality show 'Divorce Counseling Camp,' he revealed that he was supporting his family with a monthly income of around 3 million won while working at a chemical manufacturing plant.

During the broadcast, he shared, "I have yet to get back the money I entrusted to my father after marriage," exposing his financial difficulties and marital conflicts.

"Everything is prepared"… Confessions left at the end of life

Kang's statements during the show shocked viewers. He mentioned, "It is so tough that I wish to die in my sleep," and alluded to an extreme choice by saying, "Everything is all set."

He contemplated divorce but could not make a decision, considering his three-year-old daughter.

He expressed, "I was living hard, but the environment that breaks my will is too difficult," shedding tears that left a deep impact on viewers at the time.

Meanwhile, Kang passed away on the 22nd at the age of 36. His mortuary was set up at the Soonchunhyang University Hospital in Cheonan, with his wife Lee Da-eun and three-year-old daughter listed as survivors. His obituary was shared by fellow football player Koo Bon-sang via social media.

Image source: jtbc 'Divorce Counseling Camp'