Veteran musician Kong Chiang, 67, contemplates retirement amid health battles

Veteran musician Kong Chiang, 67, continues to pursue his passion for music despite facing significant health challenges, including diabetes, cataracts, and recent major surgery. He recently appeared at a banquet hosted by Sichuan opera face-changing artist Tao Xiuhua, maintaining a cheerful demeanor.

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He is still like a candle burning himself to light up others.

Longtime host Chen Kai-lun, who reunited with Kong Chiang at the event, expressed deep concern for his friend's well-being. Chen Kai-lun described Kong Chiang as "burning his life for music," revealing that the musician has privately considered retirement but feels unable to step away from his work.

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I can see he is desperately working for his beloved music; besides feeling heartbroken, he is still humorously sharing his upcoming projects... I can only sincerely wish him well, taking care of his own body is the top priority now.

Chen Kai-lun shared that Kong Chiang had recently expressed his desire to retire but felt bound by his commitments. Witnessing his friend's condition, Chen Kai-lun lamented that Kong Chiang "still burns himself like a candle to light up others," emphasizing that despite needing rest, he remains indispensable for many important performances.

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At this age, taking care of your body is more important than anything else. Teacher Kong Chiang, with your lifetime of music, you have accompanied countless singers on Taiwanese television and achieved countless stages. I can only pray that in the days to come, you can spend more time for yourself, healthy, safe, and joyful.

Kong Chiang himself has previously stated his ambition to work until age 80 or 90, humorously planning a "retirement concert" to raise funds for charity. He expressed a desire to invite prominent figures like Chang Fei and Fei Yu-ching to the event. Despite his health concerns, Kong Chiang's dedication to his craft and his charitable intentions remain evident.

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I want to work until I'm 80, live until I'm 90. I will definitely hold a 'retirement concert' then, inviting people like Chang Fei, Fei Yu-ching, and donating the proceeds to charity.