K-pop Aespa’s Winter, 23, to Go on Break After Surgery for a Collapsed Lung

Everyone knows how stressful being a K-pop singer is.

But undergoing surgery at 23 years old?

That’s not something you read every day.

K-pop Aespa’s Winter, 23, to Go on Break After Surgery for a Collapsed Lung

SM Entertainment announced on 12 April that Aespa’s Winter will take a hiatus following her lung surgery. She underwent surgery for pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung.

The surgery was a preventive measure to avoid the recurrence of the condition, based on her doctor’s advice and following extensive discussions.

“As pneumothorax is a condition prone to recurrence, it was carried out as a preventive measure in accordance with her doctor’s opinion, and the decision was made after plenty of discussion,” SM Entertainment had said.

The agency added that Winter’s recovery will be the top priority in planning her future schedule.

The cause of her collapsed lung was not disclosed.

What is Pneumothorax?

Pneumothorax, commonly known as a collapsed lung, is a medical condition that occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall. This air pushes on the outside of the lung and makes it collapse.

It’s not as uncommon as you might think and can happen due to a chest injury, certain medical procedures, or even spontaneously, particularly in tall, thin, young people.

Symptoms of a pneumothorax can include sudden chest pain and difficulty breathing.

The treatment for pneumothorax depends on its size and severity. A small pneumothorax might resolve on its own without the need for treatment.

However, larger or more serious cases may require procedures to remove the air from the chest cavity. This can involve inserting a needle or a tube into the chest to relieve the pressure.

More severe cases might require surgery to prevent future occurrences.

The main goal is to relieve the pressure on the lung, allowing it to re-expand and function normally again.