K-Drama Actor Kang Sung-Hoon's Pet Loss Grief

Actor Koo Sung-hwan confessed to experiencing grief after parting with his pet dog Kkotbunyi, known as 'pet loss syndrome,' and shared his recent situation. Koo Sung-hwan revealed that his pet dog Kkotbunyi passed away on February 14th, and he confessed that for two weeks after the separation, he "almost died." He was seen composing himself in America's Red Rock Canyon, expressing deep affection for Kkotbunyi, calling her "my daughter, my sister, my partner." Koo Sung-hwan calmly recounted his feelings after Kkotbunyi's passing, but his sad expression evoked a sense of pity.

Koo Sung-hwan's pet dog Kkotbunyi received public affection by appearing together on MBC's variety show 'I Live Alone,' and subsequently worked as a model for numerous pictorials and advertisements, becoming an example showcasing the deep bond between single-person households and their pets. Following Koo Sung-hwan's story, warm support and comfort poured in from fellow celebrities and netizens. Netizens reacted with comments like, "Thank you for letting us meet Kkotbunyi," and "If you miss Kkotbunyi, let's talk about her anytime." Actor Lee Jang-woo left a comforting comment, and Lee Ju-seung left a message of condolence. Koo Sung-hwan indicated he would take time for psychological recovery, stating, "I will also compose myself and return in good health."

As the pet population reaches 10 million, cases of 'pet loss syndrome,' experiencing deep loss and anguish after losing a pet, are on the rise. This demonstrates the deep attachment formed between pets and humans, and as the perception of pets as family members spreads, the grief after their departure is emerging as a problem that can no longer be easily dismissed. According to research from American academic papers, the stronger the relationship with an intimate subject, the greater the intensity of grief after loss, and pets can trigger a strong mourning reaction comparable to human death.

The sudden death of a pet can also lead to reactions similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Previously, actor Bae Jung-nam also expressed extreme grief after parting with his pet dog Bell, showing major symptoms of pet loss syndrome. A specialist had warned that if left untreated, it could lead to PTSD, anxiety disorders, and social isolation.

Advice also suggests that help from those around is necessary to overcome pet loss syndrome. A veterinarian at an animal hospital said, "It is natural to feel distressed after a pet passes away," and added, "​Sharing feelings of grief with those around you is helpful, and in severe cases, seeking psychological counseling is also beneficial."