On December 17, Lee Jun-ho appeared on Lee Yong-jin’s YouTube channel Yong Tarot, ahead of the release of his upcoming Netflix series Cashero.

During the episode, Lee Yong-jin brought up one of 2PM’s most famous performances the 2009 SBS Gayo Daejeon where members lifted each other during the ending pose, a clip that has since become legendary among fans.

Recalling 2PM’s early days as “beast idols,” Lee Jun-ho said, “We did all kinds of things building human towers, flying around.” When asked if his body was still holding up today, he replied honestly, “My knees hurt. A lot hurts.”

Lee Jun-ho explained that he debuted at just 18–19 years old, a time when 2PM’s performances heavily featured acrobatics. “I got seriously injured while doing acrobatics and had to undergo shoulder surgery,” he revealed. “They drilled eight holes into my shoulder.” He also shared that he once fractured his fourth lumbar vertebra, continuing to perform on stage wearing only a back brace.

The accumulation of injuries eventually led to a sobering medical assessment. “I went to the hospital because I had so many injuries, and they told me my body age was around 60,” Lee Jun-ho said. “ I heard that when I had just debuted.”

Lee Yong-jin reacted in disbelief, joking that such an injury today would be disastrous especially in freezing weather. Lee Jun-ho laughed along, adding, “It’s cold outside right now, and my joints were creaking too.” The exchange drew laughter while underscoring the long-term physical cost of his early career.

Despite the hardships, Lee Jun-ho has successfully transitioned from idol to acclaimed actor, earning praise for both his dedication and resilience. As he prepares to return with Cashero, his honest confession has reminded fans once again of the intense sacrifices behind K-pop’s most iconic performances.

Sources: Daum