Jewelry's Park Jung-ah down with influenza flu

Girl group Jewelry leader Park Jung-ah has been diagnosed with the influenza flu, becoming the latest in a string of celebrities who have come down with the dreaded flu strain.

Park, currently promoting single "Love Story," was confirmed as having infected the H1N1 influenza virus late on Monday after having suffered from severe symptoms of a cold earlier in the day, her agency Star Empire said Tuesday.

Accordingly, it is unclear whether the 27-year-old singer will be able to appear on upcoming televised music shows and year-end awards ceremonies.

Star Empire explained that Park shed tears upon receiving the diagnosis, apologizing to her group members who had worked hard to put together performances for the events and to promote "Love Story" which would the last song the four will promote as a team.

Park, along with Seo In-young, another member of the quartet, have stated they will quit Jewelry after wrapping up promotion of their current album although they will remain with their agency to pursue solo careers. Park has been on the group since its debut in 2001 while Seo joined a year later.

"Park will not be able to take part in Jewelry's activities for the time being... We will help so that she can recover at the earliest time possible," said Star Empire of the singer currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

Jewelry, which has enjoyed steady popularity throughout their career, will continue their activities after recruiting new members.

Reporter : Ko Jae-wan star@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr