'National marathoner' Lee Bong-ju on the mend: 'Body is 80% recovered — I can jog 10km straight'

Lee Bong-ju, the beloved marathoner who drew widespread concern from fans after being diagnosed with a rare disease, has been seen in noticeably improved health.

Singer Shawn posted a video titled "Sunbae Lee Bong-ju getting better and better" on his YouTube channel "With Shawn" on Wednesday.

In the video, Lee appeared markedly healthier than in earlier footage, when his condition had been so severe that his head drooped nearly 90 degrees.

Shawn could barely contain his delight. "I think the whole country is going to be overjoyed," he said.

Lee has been steadily rehabilitating and training since his diagnosis with dystonia, a rare neurological movement disorder. "My body is about 80 percent recovered," he said. "I start every morning with a run and keep building up my fitness."

His progress has been striking. "Before, he could barely run 100 meters before having to walk," Shawn said. "Now he runs 10 kilometers straight."

Lee responded with quiet confidence. "Now I need to work my way up to a half marathon," he said.