K-R&B Star Crush Opens Up About Struggles After Spinal Surgery

On June 20, South Korean R&B sensation Crush turned to Instagram to share a powerful personal update, posting lyrics and visuals seemingly inspired by his real-life experience of undergoing spinal surgery.

“I’ve learned how to live in pure silence. Turn off the Switch,” the caption read—a literal and metaphorical reference to both a song and his healing journey. He added, “I lost all feeling in my legs. Spent a day just staring at the ceiling. When I laid in that damp hospital room, saw my reflection in the window—I didn’t want to hear a single sound.”

The post continued to reflect his haunting memories from the surgery room, and his emotional battle following the operation. “The smell of the operating room still lingers in my nose. That brilliant spring—I had to take painkillers at Yonsei University Amphitheater just to continue. Can I ever stand on stage like before? Got to be strong, got to be strong,” the message ended.

This message follows Crush’s hiatus from the music world after he underwent a lumbar disc surgery in June last year. His agency, Fineation, had reported that the singer’s condition had worsened drastically, leading doctors to recommend immediate surgery. “Crush’s health comes first. We are doing everything we can to help him return in his best condition for his fans,” a representative stated at the time.

Later in December, Crush opened up during his appearance on the program “Yontaro,” revealing the mental toll of his recovery. “I was bedridden for nearly two months. At first, I thought I’d enjoy the break, but it quickly turned into a struggle with depression,” he confessed.

Fans around the world have responded with waves of support, commending Crush not only for his vulnerability but also for the strength it takes to share deeply personal pain in today’s image-conscious music industry. As the artist slowly makes his comeback, many are hopeful this moment marks a new chapter in both his music and his message.