Comedian Lee Dong-woo, 39, said he has become nearly blind due to a rare, hereditary disease that causes the red photoreceptors in the retina to gradually degenerate.
Appearing on a KBS 2TV program, Lee said he had been suffering from a disease called retinitis pigmentosa (RP) for the past five years.
"I have virtually lost my eyesight and must always be accompanied by a guide when going outside," Lee said. "I got the disease less than three months after my marriage. My wife gave birth to our daughter and I'm worried that it might be hereditary."
Lee said he had kept the infliction a secret, even from his mother, for two years. He said he also became depressed after being diagnosed with the disease.
"I have lived as a TV personality for my whole life and I have been afraid of being sacked as a result of disclosing my condition," he said. "But now it's okay. I just want to do something for those who are suffering from blindness."