Kim Soo-mi's cause of death: 'Hyperglycemic shock'... Cardiac arrest if not treated early

It has been reported that the cause of death of actress Kim Su-mi, who suddenly passed away on the 25th, was 'hyperglycemic shock.' Hyperglycemic shock is an emergency condition where blood sugar levels rise rapidly, causing a loss of fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, and it can be fatal for diabetic patients.

Kim Soomi's son, Jung Myung-ho, director of Napalgot F&B, told Yonhap News Agency in a phone call, "The police investigating the cause of death informed us that hyperglycemic shock was the final cause," and "his blood sugar level exceeded 500 mg/dL."

Hyperglycemic shock can occur when blood sugar control is poor or insulin administration is discontinued. The main cause is infection, but physical and mental stress can also be contributing factors. In fact, Kim Su-mi was reportedly preparing for a lawsuit since last year after the production company of the musical "Mother" she appeared in for 14 years was embroiled in a plagiarism controversy, and she had not received any performance fees. Director Jung stated, "'Mother' caused a lot of stress for my mother," and "she had not received a single performance fee since last year and was preparing for a lawsuit."

When hyperglycemic shock occurs, the kidneys attempt to excrete excess sugar through urine, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Usually, when blood sugar remains elevated above 180 mg/dL, glucose begins to be excreted in the urine, and symptoms of hyperglycemia such as fatigue, frequent urination, extreme hunger, dry skin and mouth, and blurred vision start to appear. In particular, if blood sugar exceeds 500 mg/dL, it is considered a high-risk state, requiring immediate insulin administration and fluid replenishment to regulate blood sugar and electrolytes. If not treated early, severe electrolyte imbalance and dehydration can lead to cardiac arrest or multiple organ failure.