Hong Kong actor Louis Koo is set to undergo eye surgery next month, marking a significant moment in his career as he prepares for upcoming events. Koo, known for his roles in various films and as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, shared details about his health and professional commitments during a press conference on April 16, 2025, for Andy Lau's concert series.
At the press conference for Lau's "GO WITH THE FLOW LF LIVE IN HONG KONG" concert, Koo expressed his excitement about the event, which will feature seven performances at the Hong Kong Coliseum starting in May 2025. His attendance at the press conference was a surprise, as he jokingly remarked about his limited ability to perform due to his eye condition, stating he might only be able to jump "two centimeters high" while Lau performs his energetic dance routines.
Koo revealed that he has been suffering from floaters in his vision, a condition that can lead to more serious issues such as retinal detachment. He explained that his nearsightedness has progressed from 300 degrees in childhood to over 1000 degrees now, significantly increasing his risk for eye-related complications. "I’m really looking forward to seeing the world clearly after my surgery," Koo said, emphasizing the importance of the procedure for his quality of life.
In preparation for his surgery, Koo will undergo two separate operations for each eye in May. He shared his concerns about needing to wear glasses instead of contact lenses prior to the surgery, joking that he would resemble the character 'Lam Ah Jan' from a popular series. Koo also mentioned that he is following his doctor's advice to avoid flying after the surgery, which means he will miss the Cannes Film Festival where his film, "Warriors of Future," is set to premiere.
"Warriors of Future" has been nominated for the Midnight Screenings at the Cannes Film Festival, and both Koo and his co-star Sean Lau are considered strong contenders for the Best Actor award. Despite the excitement surrounding the film's premiere, Koo expressed disappointment at not being able to attend, stating, "I would love to be there, but the doctor has advised against flying after the surgery. It's a shame, but my health comes first."
Additionally, Koo addressed the recent rumors regarding fellow actor Ronald Cheng's marriage troubles. Cheng was spotted at the Wanchai Family Court, leading to speculation about his relationship with his wife, Yumi. Koo, who is friends with Cheng, urged the media to give him space during this difficult time. "People should respect his privacy. He’s been through a lot, and I think it’s important to allow him some room to deal with things," Koo said.
In a light-hearted moment, Koo mentioned that Cheng has quit drinking and suggested they catch up over tea instead of drinks. This reflects Koo's supportive nature and his willingness to help friends navigate personal challenges.
As Koo prepares for his surgery, he is also mindful of the potential risks associated with his eye condition. Floaters, while common, can sometimes indicate more serious health issues, including retinal tears that can lead to vision loss. Koo's situation highlights the importance of regular eye check-ups, especially for those with high myopia, as they are at greater risk for complications.
According to eye specialist Dr. Chan Ying-shan, floaters can appear as black spots, threads, or even spider webs in one’s vision. He explained that 75% of floaters result from age-related degeneration, while 20% are naturally occurring, and the remaining 5% can be linked to pathological factors. Koo's case, with his high level of myopia, places him in the category that requires careful monitoring.
Dr. Chan advises that anyone experiencing an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or blurred vision should seek immediate medical attention, especially within a seven-day window to prevent potential retinal detachment. Koo's proactive approach to his health is commendable, as he emphasizes the need for timely intervention.
As the concert dates approach, Koo remains optimistic about his recovery and the future of his career. His dedication to both his health and his craft is evident, and fans are eagerly anticipating his performances alongside Andy Lau.
In conclusion, Louis Koo's upcoming eye surgery and his commitment to supporting friends in need reflect the complexities of life in the public eye. The actor continues to balance personal challenges with professional aspirations, showcasing resilience and a positive outlook as he navigates this pivotal moment in his life.
