Model Diagnosed with Rare Cancer Says Shaving Her Head Felt Freeing

Jieun Yoo shaved her head before chemotherapy caused her hair to fall out, and later announced that her cancer is in remission.

Jieun Yoo, a 24-year-old South Korean model and influencer, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer after doctors found cancer cells in her lymph nodes following removal of a lump. She began chemotherapy, and as treatment led to hair loss she chose to shave her head completely and shared the decision on social media. Yoo also used wigs during treatment and described changing views about appearance and resilience. On Oct. 18 she told followers that her cancer was in remission and that her hair is slowly growing back. Key details: - Yoo was diagnosed after a lump was removed and testing showed cancer cells in nearby lymph nodes. - She started chemotherapy and shaved her head before her hair completely fell out so the change would feel like a choice. - During treatment she used wigs and said they helped her feel like herself again while she recovered. - On Oct. 18 she announced her cancer was in remission and that uncertainty about the future remains. Summary: Yoo says the experience shifted how she thinks about beauty, emphasizing resilience and honesty rather than appearance. She has announced remission, and what comes next is undetermined at this time.