A remarkable story of overcoming physical limitations and embracing life in spite of rare illness is set to move viewers in the upcoming broadcast of KBS’s “Human Theater” on September 3.

The episode shines a spotlight on Sae-wook Yang, 33, who was paralyzed from the waist down at the age of 23 after a devastating fall from a fourth-floor balcony. Despite being diagnosed with complete lower body paralysis, Yang refused to give up, undertaking intensive rehabilitation for over ten hours a day. He recalls the moment his right big toe showed a faint movement—a sign of progress that renewed his determination. With just a tenth of the average muscle mass in his legs, Yang learned to walk again and went on to win silver and bronze medals at national championships as a disabled powerlifter, currently representing Incheon City.

A new miracle entered Yang's life one year ago in the form of Yoon-hee Won, 30, whom he met through a mutual friend. Won, living with the rare autoimmune disease lupus and unable to expose herself to sunlight, found purpose as an online English instructor and YouTuber, approaching life with optimism. At their first meeting, she gifted Yang a flower symbolizing “respect,” expressing her immediate admiration. Previously committed to remaining single, Yang was moved by her spirit and proposed marriage just four days after they met.

The couple embarked on their married life last March in a new home they prepared together and are now making final arrangements for their wedding, scheduled in a month’s time in line with their families’ wishes. Recently, Yang revisited the doctor who had operated on him, walking into the clinic for a deeply moving reunion.

Despite contending with complex regional pain syndrome and the constant risk of fractures, Yang refuses to surrender to hardship. His recovery was made possible by the unwavering dedication of his parents, who gave up everything to support his treatment, as well as the steadfast encouragement of his family. Nowadays, he frequents his parents’ fried chicken restaurant several times a week, continuing to cherish their bond.

Yoon-hee is his greatest source of strength, and together, the couple believes, “Every ordinary day is a miracle.” In the upcoming broadcast, viewers will witness Yang delivering wedding invitations to his bachelor powerlifting teammates and preparing traditional rice cakes with his parents to share their joyous news. The touching moment when Yang's mother, brought to tears as she recalls the accident ten years ago, beautifully encapsulates the family’s journey from pain to hope.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=KBS