Genetic Hepatitis B and Liver Cancer Risk: Kim Jung-tae’s Struggle with Incurable Viral Infection

It’s a quiet Wednesday evening in Austin, Texas, and while most families are settling in for dinner or catching up on their favorite shows, a sobering story from halfway across the world is hitting home for many here—especially those who’ve ever faced a health scare that didn’t come with a clear “all clear.” The news? South Korean actor Kim Jeong-tae, known for his roles in dramas and variety shows, has opened up about living with an incurable condition: chronic hepatitis B, a virus he inherited through his mother’s side of the family, which has already led to liver cancer once—and could again at any time. His words, “I have no cure,” echo far beyond the TV screens of Seoul, landing in living rooms where Austinites are grappling with their own health battles, genetic predispositions, or the fear of what might lurk undetected in their own bodies.

For those of us in Central Texas, where the prevalence of hepatitis B isn’t just a statistic but a lived reality for many in our Asian American communities—particularly among immigrants from regions where the virus is endemic—Kim’s story isn’t just entertainment news. It’s a mirror. It’s a wake-up call. And it’s a reminder that when it comes to liver health, what you don’t realize can kill you.

The Silent Threat in Our Backyard

Hepatitis B is often called a “silent killer” because it can progress for decades without symptoms, quietly damaging the liver until it’s too late. In the U.S., the CDC estimates that up to 2.4 million people are living with chronic hepatitis B, but nearly two-thirds don’t know they’re infected. Here in Texas, the numbers are particularly stark. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the state has one of the highest rates of liver cancer in the country, with hepatitis B and C being leading causes. In Travis County alone, liver cancer rates have been rising steadily over the past decade, outpacing national averages in some demographics.

Kim’s case is a textbook example of why this matters. He inherited the virus from his mother—a common transmission route in countries where hepatitis B is endemic, like South Korea, China, and Vietnam. In the U.S., most cases are caught through sexual contact or needle sharing, but for many Asian American families in Austin, the risk is generational. The virus can be passed from mother to child during birth, often without the mother even knowing she’s infected. And because hepatitis B doesn’t always cause symptoms until the liver is severely damaged, many people—like Kim—don’t discover they have it until they’re facing something far worse: liver cancer.

In 2018, Kim underwent surgery to remove 30% of his liver after a tumor was discovered. His doctors told him the cancer could return at any time because the virus that caused it is still in his body. “The liver has no nerves, so there are no symptoms,” he said in a recent interview. “If you find it, it’s already too late.” Those words should send a chill down the spine of anyone in Austin who hasn’t been screened—especially if they or their parents were born in a country where hepatitis B is common.

Why Austin’s Asian American Community Is at Higher Risk

Austin’s Asian American population has grown by over 50% in the last decade, making it one of the fastest-growing demographic groups in the city. Many of these families come from regions where hepatitis B is endemic, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and the Philippines. Yet despite the higher risk, screening rates remain low. A 2022 study by Austin Public Health found that only about 40% of Asian Americans in Travis County had been tested for hepatitis B, compared to nearly 70% of the general population.

The reasons for this gap are complex. Language barriers, lack of access to culturally competent healthcare, and stigma around infectious diseases all play a role. But perhaps the biggest factor is simply awareness. Many people—even those at high risk—don’t realize they should be tested. Hepatitis B isn’t part of the standard panel of tests most doctors order during routine check-ups, and unless a patient specifically asks for it, it can go undetected for years.

This is where stories like Kim’s become more than just headlines. They become a catalyst for conversation. After his interview aired, searches for “hepatitis B screening near me” spiked in cities with large Asian American populations, including Austin. Local clinics like CommunityCare and People’s Community Clinic reported an uptick in inquiries from patients asking about testing. One nurse at People’s Community Clinic told me, “We’ve had patients come in specifically because they saw the news about Kim. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s also an opportunity to catch something early.”

The Domino Effect: From Hepatitis B to Liver Cancer

Hepatitis B doesn’t just increase the risk of liver cancer—it’s one of the leading causes worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, chronic hepatitis B infection is responsible for about 60% of liver cancer cases globally. In the U.S., liver cancer rates have more than tripled since the 1980s, and while hepatitis C is a major driver, hepatitis B remains a significant factor, particularly in immigrant communities.

For those who test positive, the good news is that hepatitis B is manageable. Antiviral medications can suppress the virus, reducing the risk of liver damage and cancer. But the key is catching it early. Once cirrhosis or cancer develops, the options become far more limited—and far more invasive. Kim’s story is a stark reminder of this reality. After his surgery, he was told that the cancer could return at any time because the underlying virus was still active. His only defense? Regular screenings every four months.

In Austin, where liver cancer rates are climbing, this kind of vigilance isn’t just advisable—it’s critical. Yet many people don’t realize that hepatitis B screening is often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, with no out-of-pocket cost. The CDC recommends testing for anyone born in a country where hepatitis B is common, anyone with a family history of the virus or liver cancer, and anyone who has ever injected drugs or had unprotected sex with multiple partners. For Austinites, that’s a lot of people.

The Emotional Toll: When “No Cure” Becomes a Life Sentence

Beyond the medical implications, Kim’s story also shines a light on the emotional and psychological burden of living with a chronic, incurable condition. In his interview, he broke down in tears as he talked about his two young sons. “I have to be strong for them,” he said. “I can’t let go of this thread of health. I’m their dad—I have to be the strong one.”

For many in Austin’s Asian American community, where family obligations and the pressure to “stay strong” are deeply ingrained cultural values, this sentiment will resonate. The idea of being a provider, a protector—someone who doesn’t show weakness—can make it even harder to confront a diagnosis like hepatitis B. There’s a fear of being seen as “sick,” of burdening the family, or even of facing discrimination.

But as Kim’s wife pointed out in the interview, the best way to protect your family is to take care of yourself. “Obtain your check-ups,” she urged him. “Stop worrying about the kids so much. They’ll be fine.” It’s a message that many in Austin—especially those in high-stress, high-responsibility roles—require to hear. Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or just someone who puts everyone else’s needs before your own, Kim’s story is a reminder that your health isn’t just about you. It’s about the people who depend on you.

What Austinites Can Do Right Now

If Kim’s story has hit close to home, you’re not alone. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Get tested. If you or your parents were born in a country where hepatitis B is common (including most of Asia, Africa, and parts of Eastern Europe), ask your doctor for a hepatitis B blood test. It’s a simple blood draw, and it could save your life.
• Get vaccinated. If you haven’t been vaccinated against hepatitis B, talk to your doctor. The vaccine is safe, effective, and recommended for everyone—especially infants, healthcare workers, and people at higher risk.
• Talk to your family. If you test positive, encourage your family members to get tested too. Hepatitis B can run in families, and early detection is key.
• Find a specialist. If you’re diagnosed with hepatitis B, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Austin has several hepatologists (liver specialists) who can support you manage the virus and reduce your risk of complications.

Given My Background in Public Health Journalism, Here’s Who You Should Talk to in Austin

If you or someone you love is dealing with hepatitis B, liver health concerns, or the emotional toll of a chronic condition, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Here are three types of local professionals who can help—and exactly what to appear for when choosing one:

Hepatologists (Liver Specialists)

These are doctors who specialize in liver diseases, including hepatitis B and liver cancer. When looking for a hepatologist in Austin, prioritize those affiliated with major medical centers like Ascension Seton Medical Center or St. David’s HealthCare, as they often have access to the latest treatments and clinical trials. Look for someone who:

• Has experience treating hepatitis B specifically (not just hepatitis C).
• Is board-certified in gastroenterology or hepatology.
• Takes a proactive approach to monitoring, including regular imaging and blood work.
• Is culturally competent—especially if English isn’t your first language.

Infectious Disease Specialists with Hepatitis Expertise

Some infectious disease doctors have advanced training in viral hepatitis. These specialists can be particularly helpful if you’re newly diagnosed and need guidance on treatment options. In Austin, look for doctors who:

• Are affiliated with academic medical centers like Dell Medical School at UT Austin, where they may be involved in research on hepatitis B.
• Have published or presented on hepatitis B in medical journals or conferences.
• Offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, which can be a game-changer for busy families.
• Are part of networks like the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), which sets guidelines for hepatitis B treatment.

Mental Health Professionals Specializing in Chronic Illness

A hepatitis B diagnosis isn’t just a medical issue—it’s an emotional one. The stress of living with a chronic condition, the fear of complications, and the stigma around infectious diseases can take a toll on your mental health. In Austin, there’s a growing network of therapists who specialize in working with patients with chronic illnesses. When searching for one, look for someone who:

• Has experience with Asian American clients or understands the cultural nuances around illness and family dynamics.
• Uses evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which are effective for managing chronic illness-related anxiety.
• Offers sliding-scale fees or accepts insurance, as therapy can be expensive.
• Is affiliated with organizations like the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), which provides resources for patients with chronic conditions.

Navigating a hepatitis B diagnosis—or any chronic health condition—can feel overwhelming, but Austin has resources to help. Whether you’re looking for a specialist, a support group, or just someone to talk to, don’t wait until it’s too late. Kim Jeong-tae’s story is a reminder that our health is our most precious asset, and it’s worth fighting for—no matter what.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated hepatitis B and liver health experts in the Austin area today.